The nation's new commander-in-chief isn't the only one putting leadership plans in camp.

More than 60 Girl Scouts from Northwest Indiana joined 2,000 youths from around the globe in attendance at the Girl Scout Leadership Institute Oct. 29 and 30 in Indianapolis.

As a theme, Live Healthy, Lead Healthy, youngsters attended workshops, including global/diversity challenges, stress management, community pride, personal esteem and stress management.

The first-time event unfolded as part of the Girl Scouts' 51st annual national convention and targeted leading life choices for sixth- to 12-graders.

Fourteen-year-old Tanisha Howard, of Gary, said the workshops taught how to better one's health and become a better leader.

Howard, who sits on the Teen Advisory Board, favored the workshop "Unique."

"We all have characteristics that make us different and you can't judge a book by its cover," said the Westside High School freshman. "We saw the same question but from our different backgrounds and view points."

In a health session, young people were encouraged to "stand up for our rights and end tobacco use by writing letters to our political leaders because smoking increases your chance of death," Howard said.

"The commercials make it seem that smoking is OK for us and we migrate to it."

Kankakee Valley School sixth-grader Madi Klauer said the "Pieces of Me" session taught "how horrible eating disorders are and that it very important to keep your body healthy."

"Eating is good for you and you should not starve yourself," said the 11-year-old. "You need food to give you energy."

Klauer said of the sessions, "I met a lot of people and made some really cool friends."

In addressing eating disorders challenging youths today, the girls stressed being yourself.

"I have a better idea of how to be a positive role model as well as be a leader in the community," Howard said. "I don't have to change myself to please others. I am beautiful as me."

Lynda Baldwin, spokesperson, said, "Exercise and food choices they make have an impact how their bodies handle the stress of homework, home, work activities and having to balance all of it."

Seven councils merged to form the new Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, according to Sandra Royer, vice president of brand and communications.

Royer said the new Leadership Institute was birthed from the youths' expressing they didn't feel like they were leaders.

In answer, the girls were greeted with "splendiloquent" - explore your values and rediscover your voice, connect with people from around the globe, learn strategies to take action, Klauer said.

"It's how to help yourself be a better person and how to be confident," Klauer said."We would have group meetings and they would compliment us on how we are doing ... witnessing this amazing experience."