This blog post continues our Leadership Academy 2026 recap. Read the Week One Recap here.

Leadership Academy 2026 presented by JD Finish Line Foundation concluded with an incredible second week from July 20-24, focused on leadership, collaboration, wellness, and celebrating the girls’ hard work through their final business presentations.

The week began with participants taking part in a Speed Networking Event, where they practiced building professional connections with community leaders from a variety of industries. The girls also participated in Leadership Academy elections, voting for their President, Vice President, and Board Members. These student leaders were selected to represent their peers and serve in leadership roles throughout the remainder of the Academy.

The girls also welcomed Virginia Foust from JD Sports, who led an engaging branding workshop. While participants had already been using Canva throughout Leadership Academy, Virginia introduced them to new design tools and techniques for creating polished logos and visual brand identities. She also shared the importance of strong branding and how it helps businesses communicate their mission and values.

Midweek, participants focused on mental health and self-care by learning about emotional regulation and the importance of wellness in leadership. They strengthened their connections through painting, making a candy salad, outdoor yoga led by Nae from Mindful Movers, watching a movie together, and ending the day with karaoke.

As the week came to a close, each team refined its business presentation by practicing in front of their peers and incorporating feedback before presenting at JD Sports Headquarters. During the final showcase, teams pitched their for-profit business ideas, branding, and corporate philanthropy initiatives to a panel of judges from a variety of professional backgrounds. They confidently answered thoughtful questions, demonstrated their creativity and teamwork, celebrated their accomplishments with prizes and lunch, and wrapped up an impactful two weeks of Leadership Academy.

We are incredibly proud of everything our girls accomplished throughout Leadership Academy and can’t wait to see how they continue to use their leadership skills, creativity, and confidence to make a positive impact in their schools, communities, and future careers. Thank you to our partners at JD Finish Line Foundation for making this program possible for Girls Inc. Indy girls!

Leadership Academy presented by JD Finish Line Foundation is a Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis summer experience. This dynamic two-week workshop in July that helps young women ages 13-18 build the confidence and skills to step into leadership roles. Through interactive, hands-on experiences, participants strengthen communication, decision-making, and self-advocacy while preparing for success in school and beyond. Learn more here.