by Shawn Nowlin
Teenagers today have more pressures to deal with than ever before. The cumulative data is overwhelming: for many, the number of followers a teen has through social media determines their popularity, college chances are frequently dictated by factors out of a student’s control, and access to drugs is at an all-time high.
Sorrow is a real thing amongst the youth and it impacts more teens than people realize. According to the American Foreign Service Protective Association, one in 12 high school students attempt suicide because of immense pressure, cyberbullying or other factors. Moreover, gang membership has expanded since the turn of the century.
For the first time in three years, the annual Roanoke Youth Summit, now in its ninth year, took place in person at William Fleming High School. In 2021 and ‘22, respectively, the yearly occurrence was held virtually and outdoors at Washington Park. Students from area middle and high schools, along with parents and guardians, were active participants at the March 4 gathering.
The purpose of the congregation was to give junior high and high school students the opportunity to engage in a productive dialogue and express their true feelings on a range of topics in a safe environment. Put on by the Roanoke Youth Services Citizens Board, this year’s event focused heavily on healthy relationships, self-image, and mental health.
Approximately 100 youth attended the workshops which were broken into five categories – “Cutting Confidence,” “The It Girl,” “Youth Circle,” “Help Save The Next Girl” and “Making Waves In Our Neighborhood.” William Fleming’s drumline got things started, followed by an opening statement from Patrick Henry High representatives (Kennady Wade, Jayveon Tucker) and Fleming reps (Kevin McNeal, Jadyn Rhodes) before Mayor Sherman Lea Sr. addressed all in attendance.
During the youth circle segments, self-affirmations, communication, and mindfulness were practiced. City leaders joined some of the workshops to hear directly from the students. Prize giveaways and a free Chick-fil-A lunch followed the workshops. Students also had an opportunity to engage with college representatives, local law enforcement, and other community organizations.
As a middle schooler, Jayveon Tucker, 18, regularly attended the youth summit. Currently, he helps organize the yearly occurrence. Former educator Anita Price, who serves as the Youth Services Board Chair, said, “Empowering teens to have their voices heard is what it is all about. Youths look for safe spaces where they feel they can communicate openly and honestly. That is what we aim to accomplish with the youth summit.”
Even though he has two grandchildren, Henry Davis, 71, vividly remembers being a teenager. “Such gatherings were not as commonplace in my day,” he said. “I’ve worked with many teens over the years and many of them shared their personal journeys with me. My experience indicates that when teens feel comfortable, they are more likely to be engaged and receptive to what is being said. It’s imperative for adults to foster a sense of community with young people.”
For anyone struggling, Price says the most important thing they can do is speak to someone they trust. More information about the Roanoke Youth Services Citizens org. can be found at roanokeva.gov.
