Riviera Beach has officially launched its first Youth Council, bringing together 15 high-school students who want to learn how city government works and take an active role in shaping their community. Members were sworn in on October 1 and held their first public town hall in mid-November, where they outlined their goals for the year: deepening their understanding of municipal government, completing community-service hours, and developing youth-focused projects to benefit Riviera Beach.

Students will serve one-year terms and receive a $500 stipend upon completion. To help them prepare, the city provided governance resources — including Robert’s Rules of Order, City Council 101, and Mastering Council Meetings. The Council represents students from schools across the region, all residing in Riviera Beach. Leadership positions for the inaugural group include Ayanna Melvin as President, Raina Caballero as Vice President, and Liana Garcia as Secretary.

The Youth Council’s first project centers on reducing youth vaping. Members will work with the Riviera Beach Police Department to spread awareness about the legal consequences if someone under 18 is found with a vape containing THC. The group also plans to promote civic pride by hosting community events and highlighting positive stories about the city.

“Other Palm Beach County cities have youth councils, including Boca Raton, Mangonia Park, Palm Beach Shores, South Bay, and Wellington,” said FLC’s Eryn Alcorn, offering context and encouragement for the new council.

Riviera Beach officials hope the program will inspire long-term civic engagement and strengthen the pipeline of future municipal leaders. As the students begin their year of service, they are already demonstrating what’s possible when young people are given the tools, knowledge, and support to make a meaningful difference.