Maui County Youth Advocates Attend National Substance Prevention Leadership Conference

In February 2023, youth from the Maui Nui Youth Council traveled to Washington, DC, to attend the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America 2023’s National Youth Leadership Forum. The forum was designed to empower young people to become leaders in their communities by providing them with opportunities to learn about leadership, and substance prevention, network with other young leaders, and gain hands-on experience in advocacy and community organizing.

The Maui Nui Youth Council delegation consisted of four youth leaders and included students from middle and high schools across Maui County. Throughout the forum, the youth participated in a variety of workshops and activities designed to build their leadership skills and deepen their understanding of substance use issues affecting their communities. They attended workshops that focused on developing strategies to address substance use issues at the community level and participated in hands-on activities such as meeting with elected officials on Capitol Hill.

In addition to the workshops and activities, the youth had the opportunity to network with over 4,000 other youth leaders from across the nation. They exchanged ideas and best practices and learned about successful initiatives and programs in other communities. Through these interactions, the Maui Nui Youth Council delegation gained valuable insights and ideas they could bring back to their communities.

For the youth leaders of Maui County, the National Youth Leadership Forum was an inspiring and transformative experience. They left the forum with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the power of youth leadership. They also gained practical skills and strategies that they can use to make a positive impact in their communities.

Overall, the youth advocates participation in the National Youth Leadership Forum was a testament to the incredible potential of young people to lead and effect change in their communities. By investing in youth leadership and providing opportunities for young people to grow and learn, we can build a stronger, more resilient future for all.

To get involved with the MNYC, contact Ashlee Klemperer at ashlee@hiphi.org.