The Alabama Governor’s Youth Leadership Forum wrapped up their camp week on Thursday with a graduation ceremony where delegates parents and staff were able to come together and celebrate the delegates for all they have accomplished.

Group leaders took their opportunity to speak on each delegate individually as they received their plaques that commemorate their completion of the camp.

Emotions were high in the ballroom during open mic where attendees were able to say a few words about the lasting friendships they have all made throughout the week.

Parents also took this chance to say thanks to the staff of the camp for the dedication they have shown to their children.

Jennifer Wright, a parent of one of these delegates, says that she can see how this experience has helped her daughter grow.

“Oh man, it’s incredible,” says Wright. “My child actually came kicking and screaming, ‘Why are you making me do this?’ and and now she doesn’t want to leave. So that that just shows the importance of it and hearing the testimonies, even though she didn’t speak, I know that she came out of her shell.”

For the full story watch Georgia’s report.