World Youth Foundation hosts Back 2 School Summit

The World Youth Foundation (WYF) recently hosted their annual Back 2 School Summit that featured performances, vendors, school supplies and more. In a press release this week, the foundation recapped the event, which was put on with the support of several local Houston sponsors.

"Students enjoyed workshops on Artificial Intelligence (AI), vendors, food, bounce houses, music and much more before receiving their backpacks of supplies," the foundation said. "Select students also received over 500 hours of community service for attending and serving at the Back 2 School Summit."

The WYF collaborated with various sponsors and partners such as the City of Houston, the Houston Health Department, the Houston Health Department Foundation, My Brother’s Keeper, and HEB. The summit took place on July 23 at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The event began at 2 p.m. and featured a program with youth performances, guest speakers, workshops and information on health and wellness, according to Click 2 Houston. With a variety of fun and entertainment, the event proposes to empower local middle school, high school and college students, inspiring them to begin the 2023-2024 school year with a positive mindset and a determination for success.

The summit commenced with a parade, led by the Southside Ravens Cheer team, the 2Xclusive Dance team, and the Jack Yates High School drumline, according to the press release. The event was continued with performances from The Swagg Boiz step team, The Fountain of Praise Youth Praise Team, and the Ambassadors International Ballet Folklorico.

During the event, Councilwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz presented a special acknowledgement to WYF CEO Karen Franklin on behalf of the City of Houston, the press release said. The recognition was in appreciation of their 33 years of service to the Houston community. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee then made an unexpected appearance and delivered a speech to the students in attendance, urging them to make the most of their upcoming 2023-2024 school year, stay focused on their aspirations, and apply the valuable lessons they gained from the summit.

The World Youth Foundation is a grassroots nonprofit organization established in 1991 with a mission to enhance the holistic development of disadvantaged and underrepresented minority youth, the organization's website said. Through blended learning and evidence-based strategies, WYF empowers the "Whole Child" - Mind, Body, and Character, teaching them to succeed in life against all odds. Its innovative mentoring gateway offers effective programs that boost self-confidence, accelerate educational and professional skills, and provide economic mobility and sustainable resources to approximately 2,500 students and families each year.