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.

Participants can move freely between four thematic reflection rooms:

Option A | Shared Struggles, Shared Futures: Rethinking Our Schools

Whether attending a Milwaukee public, private, or charter school, students across all educational environments face interconnected challenges—from funding disparities and mental health support to disciplinary policies and curriculum representation. In this room, youth lead a cross-school dialogue highlighting how common issues cross traditional boundaries and what true educational equity requires.

Option B | Beyond Home & School: Creating Safe Third Spaces

During a time when adults often expect young people to exist strictly between home and school, safe, affordable, and welcoming "third spaces" are disappearing. Youth share their lived experiences regarding public space access, curfew enforcement, neighborhood transit, and the vital need for vibrant, youth-affirming places where young residents can gather without surveillance or displacement.

Option C | "Nothing About Us Without Us": Youth & Policy

Grounded in the principle that no policy affecting youth should be decided without youth leadership, this track centers on direct accountability from local decision-makers. Young people share their priorities on local governance, systemic reform, and civic power while challenging officials to move beyond token participation toward genuine power-sharing.

Option D | Rooted in Who We Are

An open space for reflection on culture, representation, intersectionality, and community connection. Participants and local leaders explore how systemic barriers impact youth identity and how to foster inclusive spaces for Black, Brown, and marginalized youth across Milwaukee.