Volume 52 | February 2023 | |
The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) wants to stay connected with you! Enjoy interesting facts, educational information, highlights and upcoming events. Have a question or comment? Please contact us at info@aaylc-co.org. | | |
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Identity encompasses the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create one’s sense of self. This amalgamation creates a steady sense of who one is over time, even as new facets are developed and incorporated into one's identity. Source | |
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Executive Director's Corner
What will your love legacy be for your children? Every day, our children listen to us, observe us, and learn from our examples. What we prioritize, what we honor, what we do and how we do it will follow them throughout their lives. We are the primary role models for our children, and our example matters and will empower them as well as future generations.
Black History Month serves as a reminder to all Americans that their country would not be as prosperous and sustainable today if it had not been for the foresight, hard work, intellect, and courage of Black Americans who came before us. This is a season to honor our ancestors and their unsung contributions. Furthermore, it is a time to reflect on the work that remains to be done and share that with our children.
There are so many people to thank for the innumerable contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to change. Black History Month reaffirms the fact that we have an obligation, and no excuse, to impact our community, this nation, and ultimately the world. The month of February, with its emphasis on public displays of affection, provides an opportunity for me to share with others why I am proud to be Black and why I value the history of Black Americans.
Sincerely,
Shantelle Bridges
Executive Director
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Why Self-Confidence Is More Important Than You Think | Self-confidence is linked to almost every element involved in a happy and fulfilling life. Understanding these benefits is an important first step toward living your best life with confidence. The more confident you become, the more you'll be able to calm the voice inside you that says, "I can't do it." | | | | |
Student of the Month - Amaya Porter | | |
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Amaya is a senior at Pine Creek High School who has shown her devotion to helping others in a plethora of ways. This 3.7 GPA student is currently part of 6 different clubs at her school including Friends of Rachel (an anti-bullying club), Yearbook and American Sign Language (ASL.) Amaya credits her parents for giving her the mindset that education is her birthright, and she should take advantage of any opportunity in her path. She lives by this mindset by finding opportunities to empower others wherever she goes. Her favorite class is Peer Partner. Amaya is able to support her fellow students with disabilities by talking to and walking with students that have special needs to their classes. She also assists, motivates, and monitors these peers during class and helps them to adapt. Learn more about this exceptional student | |
Matters of the Mind
Adolescents are often stereotyped as self-concerned risk takers who are easily susceptible to social pressure. Ages 13 to 19 are known as the adolescent or teen years. This is a critical period where children begin rapidly building their sense of self, identity, and awareness. Identity refers to the sense of who we are as individuals and as members of social groups. It is critical that teens receive consistent social and familial support in order to properly nurture an adolescent's mental health. This includes laying the groundwork for self-esteem, goals, and values. Identity is very important in our lives. It has an impact on life decisions, relationships, and behavior across social environments. Read More
Sincerely,
Alice Miles
Counselor at Mt. Carmel Veteran Service Center and AAYLC Board Director
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Across the Board
Growing up I never really thought about how important it was to have a good name or reputation. I just tried to be me by working hard in school, being kind to others, and demonstrating integrity. We should always keep in mind that various people are constantly watching us and taking note. In the business world we call that “your brand.” It is essentially what others have observed while watching you work and interact. It is important. We want to be asked to lead certain projects, to be promoted, and to join teams.
I have a friend who has consistently been late to many activities and outings over the years. Others took notice, and her tardiness unfortunately became part of her brand. We all learned to add at least 15 minutes to the time she said she'd arrive. She was aware her reputation was not good. She made a concerted effort to be on time. Many of us who interact with her immediately noticed. She completely revamped her image.
There is no such thing as “I have a brand outside of work/school and a brand inside of work/school.” Your brand is unique to you and is influenced by your culture, ethics, and priorities. We all struggle with something that adds a wrinkle to our brand, but people notice how you deal with your flaws. Take ownership of them and work on them. Ask yourself, "What do I want the world to know about me?" You can shape your brand however you want. You are in command, and authenticity is essential.
Sincerely,
Clara Akins
Board Treasurer
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We are overjoyed to be celebrating the AAYLC's 30th anniversary. Join us for a glamorous and festive evening to recognize our efforts to develop student leaders in their communities and beyond. On Saturday, February 25th, prepare to feel like a "high roller" in your semi-formal ensemble. Don't put off purchasing your tickets for this event. Get your tickets TODAY! | |
Countdown to our Conference | | |
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The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) is celebrating its 30th anniversary!! On Saturday, March 4, 2023, the 2023 conference will be held IN-PERSON at Colorado College. Generation Now - Emerging Leaders is our theme!
This conference is part of the AAYLC's ongoing effort to develop diverse student leaders among middle and high school students. The conference offers sessions that are innovative, creative, and expansive in order to inspire student empowerment, knowledge, opportunity, growth, and connections. Students, parents, and volunteers can now register. Sign-up NOW!
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Chase Bank
This month, we're highlighting Chase, who made a generous donation. We appreciate their gift and commitment to the AAYLC's mission. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to this organization for assisting us in ensuring that we continue to provide innovative programs and experiences for youth in the community and beyond.
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2023 Annual Pikes Peak Region MLK Commemoration
The AAYLC attended another successful MLK celebration on Monday, January 16th, with the annual Pikes Peak Region All People's Breakfast, which featured keynote speaker Dr. Mike Edmonds. Following the breakfast, there was a unity march to Acacia Park. The theme It Starts with Me: Creating a Beloved Community Mindset to Transform Unjust Systems was addressed by our very own Cydnee Taylor, Student Board Member.
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Educating Children of Color (ECOC)
We can't express how motivating it is to talk with students about their future plans. The theme of this year's Educating Children of Color (ECOC) was "Education is the Passport to the Future," and the event was well attended. Several AAYLC members met with attendees at our vendor table to discuss our resources and the upcoming conference. We were grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing event. Thank you to everyone who visited!
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Colorado College Bonner Fellow
The AAYLC is delighted to announce that we have been chosen as a Bonner Fellow recipient. This highly regarded program develops student leaders from underrepresented backgrounds who want to change their communities and the world. These students will have the opportunity to work on a community issue that is important to them for an extended period of time. Johanna Villegas has joined our team to help us create an amazing conference experience for students in grades 6 through 12. Thank you so much, Colorado College, for this fantastic opportunity!
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Welcome to the Board of Directors! | | |
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Dr. Paul Wiggins - IT/Community Partnerships
Paul Wiggins is a DoD Government contractor with over 16 years’ experience in leadership, Information Technology, Change Management and Program Management. He currently serves as a Consulting Configuration Manager for V2X. Paul is also a retired veteran after spending 21 years in the Air Force Reserve. In his time in the Air Force, he worked several roles in leadership, administration, service desk lead and ending his career as a First Sergeant. He is active on several city boards and state boards to better our communities. Paul is also a course instructor for Air University where he teaches Applied Airmen Leadership Capstone. He is passionate about our youth and providing them with access to all educational and leadership opportunities that will help them grow into our future leaders.
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Blessing Fitzgerald - Grant Writing
Blessing is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing as a psychotherapist for the past 10 years. She is licensed to practice in Hawaii and Colorado and is trained in DBT, CBT, EMDR, MI and SFBT. She provides psychotherapy to people struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideations, and personality disorders. She teaches and mentors new therapists in bringing their best selves to each client, as well as an understanding of ethics and cultural humility. Being a board member allows her to mentor youth in embracing their true selves, including resilience, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and empowerment building.
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