On June 10, the LondonAid Project hosted the highly anticipated Rise Up Teen Summit at the Miami Dade College Homestead Campus in the new Student Success Center. The event brought together over 200 teens, parents, and community leaders to discuss crucial issues affecting today's youth. The theme for this year's summit was "Relationships," focusing on building healthy connections with significant others, friends, and parents.
LondonJosara (Founder) and her mother Sonya Miller worked endlessly to make this event what they envisioned with Telica Henry-McQueen partnering with them to help get it to the next level.
The evening kicked off with an inspiring welcome from our moderator, Rev. Anthony Ancrum of Second Baptist Church, who set the tone for the summit with his energetic and heartfelt introduction. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation as attendees settled in for an evening of meaningful discussions and workshops.
Our keynote speakers, Dr. Simeon Richardson, Dean of Miami Dade College, and Belinda Gordon-Battle, MED, MS, LMHC, Clinical Therapist/Life Consultant, delivered powerful messages about the importance of communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. Their stories and insights resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating relationships as teenagers.
A special performance by singer Kaila Cheryl from the University of Miami captivated the audience and added a musical touch to the event, further emphasizing the theme of connection and expression by singing her rendition of Rise Up by Andra Day.
One of the summit's highlights was the interactive workshops, where teens participated in scenarios to practice effective communication and empathy. These hands-on activities not only provided valuable skills but also encouraged teens to open up and share their experiences in a supportive environment.
The panel discussion featured a diverse group of teens—London, Mikayla, Semaj, and Micahai—who bravely shared their personal stories and perspectives on relationships. Their candidness and willingness to engage in dialogue were truly inspiring. The panel, moderated by Rev. Ancrum, facilitated a rich conversation that covered various aspects of relationships, including trust, respect, and boundaries.
In addition to the workshops and panel discussion, attendees had the opportunity to visit vendor booths, where local organizations provided resources and information on topics ranging from mental health to community involvement. These booths were a hit, offering valuable takeaways and fostering connections within the community.
The summit concluded with a closing address that emphasized the importance of continuing the conversation beyond the event. Attendees were encouraged to take the lessons learned and apply them in their daily lives, promoting healthier relationships and a stronger sense of community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, sponsors, and partners who made the Rise Up Teen Summit possible. Special thanks to Miami Dade College Homestead Campus, Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, Chili’s, Sugar City Designs, and Publix for their generous support. We also thank our partners, The Right Fit Educational & Consulting Services, and our affiliate, South Dade Connections. A huge thank you to Elijah Wells for capturing the event through his exceptional photography and videography, and to DJ King for providing the perfect soundtrack for the evening.
As we look forward to our next summit on bullying, we are excited to continue empowering youth voices and creating spaces where teens can discuss critical issues openly and honestly. Stay tuned for more details about our upcoming events and initiatives.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Rise Up Teen Summit. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our youth and building a brighter future for our community.
Upcoming Event: Bullying Summit and Backpack Giveaway
Mark your calendars for our next summit, where we will focus on the critical issue of bullying. The event will feature the same talented moderator and panelists, along with new activities and resources. We are also thrilled to announce a backpack giveaway, ensuring that our attendees are equipped for success in the upcoming school year.
Stay connected with the LondonAid Project by following us on social media and visiting our website for updates on future events and initiatives.
Join the Conversation
We want to hear from you! Share your experiences, stories, and thoughts about the Rise Up Teen Summit on our social media platforms using the hashtag #RiseUpTeenSummit or join the chatter group in the link above. Let's keep the conversation going and continue to empower each other.
Event photos
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