Davidson County residents interested in learning more about local government and civic leadership are invited to apply for Metro Nashville’s MyCity Academy, a free program designed to help residents better understand how city government operates and how they can become more engaged in their communities.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 MyCity Academy cohort, which is scheduled to begin in September. The application deadline is July 24, and applicants will be notified of their acceptance by Aug. 14.

Established in 2012, MyCity Academy provides participants with an in-depth look at Metro government through educational sessions, facility tours and direct interaction with city leaders. More than 250 residents representing over 40 countries have completed the program.

Among its alumni is Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, who participated in the program before taking office.

“This is one of my favorite programs in all of Metro,” O’Connell said. “I love it because it empowers participants to understand how Nashville’s government works and invites them to participate in what happens next. I am committed to making sure that our administration takes full advantage of the opportunities we have to engage the diverse voices in our city.”

The program is led by Indira Dammu, director of civic and community engagement in the Mayor’s Office. Dammu said the academy helps make local government more accessible and encourages greater community involvement.

“As a first-generation immigrant, I understand how complex and mystifying local government can seem,” Dammu said. “MyCity Academy aims to make our government more accessible so that every Nashvillian, regardless of their background, feels seen and heard.”

The most recent MyCity Academy cohort took place in 2024. During the seven-month program, participants met with Metro department leaders, toured city facilities and gained a firsthand understanding of how local government delivers services to residents.

Graduates leave the program with a deeper understanding of city operations and are better equipped to engage in civic life, advocate for their communities and help residents navigate public services.

Sessions are typically held on the third Thursday of each month from 9 am to 2:30 pm.

Residents interested in applying can visit Hub Nashville or email <mycityacademy@nashville.gov> to request an application.