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11th Annual Mayor's Youth Summit

Connecting YOUth
On October 1st the 11th Annual Mayor’s Youth Summit housed over 2,000 teens at the Bank of America Pavilion. “Connecting YOUth,” was the summit’s theme and ultimate goal. Youth from all over the city came together to get connected to programs, opportunities and other young people.

Mayor’s Youth Council representatives Shari Davis, Amity Paye, Ross DeMore, and Osmin Montero were the MCs that kicked off the fun filled day of entertainment and educational programming. Resource tables surrounded the tent, representing almost a hundred different you service agencies.
The summit began with a special rendition of America the Beautiful performed by the P.A.L. Karate Demo team followed by the National Anthem sung by Regina Hunter. Anna-Kay Williamson led the Mayor’s Youth Council in a poem relating the significance of bringing youth together and encouraging teens to invest in their futures. Mayor Menino then addressed the audience with a speech touching on the importance of choices in transitioning from adolescence to adulthood.
Throughout the summit, positive image awards were given to outstanding young people who were positive role models in their communities. The positive image awards recipients were Dionna Cobb, Beatriz Rivera, Evan Turell, Roberto Valdez, Michelle Marerro and Cara Shea.

The Mayor’s Youth Council’s skit “Get Connected” was in a talk show style at different intervals through the summit. The skit used various situations that teens may face to encourage the audience to visit resource tables and shed light on the benefits of taking advantages of opportunities.

The summit also had various skits and speakers. Stagez brought the house down with an energetic display of hip-hop dancing. The Chinese Folk Workshop awed the audience with their captivating yoyo dance. Sophia Snow brought new meaning to the words Public Service Announcement is her spoken word “Peace.” Isiah Beasley energized the crowd with his performance that included Michael Jackson style dancing. There were many other talented performers and speakers that provided the event with fabulous entertainment and even glace at possible future stars.

Special thanks to our generous sponsors who made the day possible: Mellon, Bank of America, Verizon, Boston Culinary Group, Bank of America Pavilion, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Police Athletic League and the City of Boston.

Watch the 11th Annual Summit Online
PSA: www.cityofboston.gov/cable/video_library.asp?id=499

Part 1:    www.cityofboston.gov/cable/video_library.asp?id=508

Part 2:    www.cityofboston.gov/cable/video_library.asp?id=509