ABOVE PHOTO: Rep. Brown poses for a picture with the youth who successfully completed her third annual Youth Leadership Academy. Pictured holding their certificates (from left) are: Shamar Thomas, Rutilo Thomas, Tymir Gaymon, Kaelan Glass, Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown, Nyajah Solomon, Imari Dotson, Nyadiah Solomon, Jasmine Jones, Di’Monique Bautista.
State Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown, D-Phila., hosted her third annual Youth Leadership Academy closing ceremony Friday, Aug. 15, in the courtyard of her district office in west Philadelphia, where she recognized 10 distinguished youth leaders who participated in the 2014 program.
The Youth Leadership Academy is a six-week training program designed to familiarize youth with various areas of leadership for professional and personal development in school and the community.
“The conclusion of this annual program is a highlight of my summer,” Brown said. “The opportunity to watch these youth grow and explore the world gives me hope for our future.”
In addition to engaging in learning activities, the students took several field trips, including a visit to the Renewal Treatment facility in Pittsburgh, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), Community College of Philadelphia, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations in Philadelphia. The youth leaders were also special invited guests of Philadelphia Councilmen Kenyatta Johnson and Curtis Jones, Jr.
During the closing ceremony, the youth displayed a composite of their skill sets, talents, and accomplishments achieved during the Youth Leadership Academy. Some of the learning topics included:
• Personal appearance and presentation
•Problem solving/critical thinking
•Time management
• Resume and cover letter building
•Business etiquette
•Community leadership
During the ceremony, the youth entertained about 100 family, friends and community leaders. The reigning Mrs. Pennsylvania America, Amira Hamid Joseph, a Philadelphia resident, also attended the celebration. Brown presented Mrs. Pennsylvania with a citation from the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus and invited her to visit the state Capitol.
The night ended with dinner and an outdoor celebration.
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