“From Dialogue to Progress: Change Is Now” – STU Hosts 2025 NB Racialized Youth Summit

High school students from across New Brunswick came to campus for an inspiring two days of connection, learning, and empowerment at the 2025 NB Racialized Youth Summit. 

 

The summit was organized by STU’s Cultural Diversity Coordinator, Saa Andrew Gbongbor. 

 

This year’s theme, "From Dialogue to Progress: Change is Now," built on the momentum from last year's inaugural event and involved workshops, speaker sessions, and collaborative activities, allowing participants to explore how meaningful dialogue can drive impactful change. 

 

Through the event, STUdent volunteer Suzanne Shah became chair of the NB High School Racialized Students Alliance, a groundbreaking initiative launched at the summit. The alliance is designed to amplify the voices of racialized high school students across the province by creating a platform for leadership, collaboration, and advocacy. 

 

"The Racialized Youth Summit fosters community and solidarity among students from various backgrounds, empowering them to create change,” said Shah. 

 

"Witnessing the collective drive to create a more inclusive and equitable future was inspiring. As someone deeply committed to supporting racialized youth, it felt great to be part of such a transformative event." 

 

 STUdent volunteer Sochane Campbell said experiencing the energy, pride, and sense of belonging at the summit was empowering. 

 

"It was truly incredible to see how much the event has grown. Last year, we had about 38 students attend, and this year we had over 100. This kind of growth is powerful; it shows just how much this space is needed and appreciated," she said.

 

"This event creates space for conversations about the real-life experiences these students are going through, giving students a chance to feel seen. It's empowering and affirming to be in a room where you don't have to explain your reality." 

 

With a focus on collective responsibility and resilience, the summit emphasized that the power to make change lies in the hands of today's youth. This left STUdent volunteers hopeful and excited for the future of the summit. 

 

"Seeing how much the summit has grown from where it started makes me incredibly proud,” said Campbell.  

 

“It reminds me that I'm helping shape a movement and paving the way for those coming behind me so they can feel safe, empowered, and ready to spread their wings."