Rising Leaders Luncheon

These young people, ages 14–24, are making meaningful change across our state. From leadership and prevention efforts to peer education and civic engagement, these rising leaders are driving impact where it matters most.

As we advance Healthy Life 2028, the Rising Leaders Luncheon represents more than a celebration — it is an investment in the next generation. Together, we are building a stronger Georgia by equipping young people with the confidence, knowledge, and opportunity to lead.

We invite you to join us in this important work. Explore sponsorship opportunities or register today to secure your place at this inspiring event. To experience the spirit of this event, watch last year’s Rising Leaders Luncheon and witness the voices and vision shaping Georgia’s future.

Kandi Burruss brings more than star power, she brings perspective. As a Grammy Award–winning artist, businesswoman, and cultural voice, she has built a career defined by reinvention, ownership, and impact. From shaping music and entertainment to building successful ventures and using her platform to advocate for community and economic empowerment, Kandi represents what it means to lead with both influence and intention.

On stage, she will be joined by Jane Fonda for a powerful, cross-generational conversation that blends culture, purpose, and leadership. Together, they will explore what it means to use your voice, build lasting influence, and create change that extends far beyond the moment. This dynamic exchange adds depth to the Rising Leaders Luncheon, offering a rare opportunity to witness two iconic voices in dialogue, challenging and inspiring the next generation to think bigger, move smarter, and lead boldly.

Curley M. Dossman, Jr. serves as President of Community Programs at Georgia-Pacific and Vice President of the Koch Charitable Community Fund, where he leads national philanthropic strategy and community engagement efforts that create lasting impact. Working closely with executive leadership and civic partners across the country, he helps shape initiatives that strengthen communities while advising senior leaders on culture and inclusion across Koch companies.

A graduate of Morehouse College and Washington University School of Law, Curley has built a distinguished career at the intersection of business, government, and public affairs, including leadership roles with AT&T and service on Capitol Hill. Today, his influence extends across a wide range of national and Atlanta-based organizations, where he continues to champion equity, leadership development, and community advancement.

The Rising Leaders Luncheon taking place on June 5, 2026, at Cox Enterprises is an opportunity to acknowledge and support the outstanding achievements of young people 14–19 years old. The event celebrates the collective, statewide accomplishments of GCAPP’s Youth Advisory Council, inducts a new cohort into the council, and reveals the GCAPP Youth Ambassador of the Year, a statewide honor to a council member who demonstrates exceptional commitment to GCAPP’s mission.