"Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Heard!"

The 2019 Youth Summit was held at Palm Beach Lakes Community High School on April 6 with over 550 young people in attendance. From start to finish, the event emulated its theme. Keynote speaker Malik Yoba's message was bold, performers in the dance competition were brave, and entertainment by Digital Vibez was heard.

The Youth Services Department worked in collaboration with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, Future Leaders: United for Change, and Birth to 22's Youth Council to facilitate four of the scheduled workshops along with content experts.

"Don't Do It for the Gram," led by Youth Services Director Tammy Fields and Future Leaders members Jean Joseph, Daniel Corville, Inayat Sood and Isaiah Pierce, focused on cyber bullying.

Future Leaders members Tia Quintainilla, Kenneth Jones, Iyunni Phillips, Anaijiah Graham and Lidenny Villareal opened "The Emotional Transition," a discussion based on healthy relationships and introduced Green Dot Program Coordinator Clarice Redding, who steered the remainder of the session.

"The Choice," a workshop geared toward gang and crime prevention, included an introduction from Brennan Christopher of Future Leaders and insights from FBI agent BJ Hunter.

Future Leaders Josiah Cobb, Corey Neering and Robert Sheppard partnered with Recreation Facilities Manager Tamia Williams and Caleb Wessco of Let's Get Motivated in a discussion titled "Going Pro," a practical approach to turning talents into income.

Additionally, Ashley White, MA, a doctoral psychology intern at Youth Services's Education and Training Center, spearheaded two workshops on trauma informed mental health.

Other workshop sessions dealt with:

The Truth About Marijuana, Vaping, and Alcohol

Employment Skills and Career Development

Effective Communication Skills for Success

How Do I Find Free Money for College or Technical School?

Overcoming Adversities with Resilience

One Step Closer to Greatness - Embracing Your Power Within and Around You

Conversations with a Cop

Mindfulness for Peace of Mind

 Youth Services wishes to thank the countless volunteers, parents and alliances who helped make this event such a success.