Carson Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes joins participants of Shadow the Mayor Day at City Hall, where 25 students received certificates of recognition after gaining firsthand experience in local government, civic leadership and public service. (Photo courtesy of the City of Carson)
Carson, CA — On Wednesday, July 29, Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes welcomed 25 students to Carson City Hall for the Shadow the Mayor Day, an immersive leadership experience created as part of the City’s Year of the Child initiative.
Designed to inspire the next generation of civic leaders, the event gave students a behind-the-scenes look at how local government works while showing them that leadership begins with service.
Throughout the day, students toured City Hall, shadowed the mayor, met City staff, explored the responsibilities of each department, and took their seats in the Council Chambers for a mock City Council meeting. Participants stepped into roles including Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, Councilmembers, City Manager, City Clerk, City Treasurer, department directors, public safety officials, and community members; gaining firsthand insight into the collaboration, problem-solving, and public service that keep Carson moving forward.
“Our children are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders today,” said Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes. “Shadow the Mayor Day gives them the opportunity to see what’s possible when they choose to lead with purpose, serve others, and use their voices to make a difference. Investing in our youth is one of the greatest investments we can make.”
The experience also introduced students to careers in local government while encouraging them to become active, informed, and engaged members of their community.
As part of the Mayor’s Year of the Child initiative, Shadow the Mayor Day reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that educate, empower, and inspire Carson’s young people. Each participant concluded the day with a certificate of recognition, a backpack filled with school supplies, and a reminder that leadership isn’t defined by age, it’s defined by a willingness to serve.
