Arrive, grab light refreshments, and check in. Participants will receive their group schedules for the day and meet their near-peer mentors before opening activities begin.

Kick off the day with an inspiring opening session that sets the framework for youth leadership, civic engagement, and community-driven change. This interactive segment includes welcoming remarks and a youth-led community-builder exercise designed to help participants connect with peers across different schools and neighborhoods.

Participants choose one of three parallel tracks designed to explore youth-led organizing, community history, and creative civic expression:

Take a break to recharge, connect with peers, and enjoy a catered community meal celebrating rich culinary traditions. Lunch features Black American agricultural food from Seasoned to Satisfaction alongside Southeast Asian dishes from Cocina Filipina.

Participants choose one of three parallel tracks designed to build concrete leadership skills, explore local civic spaces, and connect with local leaders.

In this focused breakout hour, young people take the lead in driving meaningful conversations directly with local leaders, decision-makers, and policymakers in attendance—who are present to listen, learn, and engage with youth perspectives.