STU Hosts First NB Racialized Youth Summit – “Centering our Voices: Awareness to Action”

 STU’s Cultural Diversity Coordinator, Saa Andrew Gbongbor, hosted more than 40 high school students and educators on campus for the New Brunswick Racialized Youth Summit – the first event of its kind in the province.  

 

The Racialized Youth Summit’s theme “Centering Our Voices: Awareness to Action” emphasized the critical importance of empowering young voices and amplifying racialized youth perspectives through youth-led advocacy.  

 

Third-year Criminology STUdent Sochane Campbell volunteered at the summit and found the experience eye-opening. 

 

“I went in intending to offer assistance as a volunteer, but I quickly became deeply involved in the summit,” said Campbell. 

 

“Engaging with students allowed me to gain valuable insights into activism and global issues, exposing me to diverse perspectives that expanded my understanding. The experience was incredibly impactful, broadening my awareness and leaving a lasting impression on me.” 

 

Through keynote speakers, youth workshops, and educator sessions, participants had the opportunity to address societal issues, foster inclusive communities, and confront injustices. 

 

“By focusing on awareness, we aimed to provide a platform where these young voices could share their stories, challenges, and aspirations. Transitioning from awareness to action highlights our commitment to recognizing the issues faced by racialized communities and empowering youth to become active agents of change,” said Gbongbor. 

 

The summit provided a supportive platform for young people to engage and explore issues related to belonging, identity, diversity, support systems in and out of school, and social justice. 

 

“The summit is crucial as it fosters a sense of belonging, equips youth with the tools to build allyships, and inspires youth to become proactive leaders in creating a more equitable society,” said Gbongbor. 

 

“Participants felt safe and found the summit a comfortable place to share. The STU student volunteers played a significant role in ensuring the entire summit ran smoothly.”