(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — The Youth Empowerment Summit (YES!) is returning to Simi Valley, offering high school students a day of learning, connection, and leadership. Designed for teens who want to make a difference, the event provides an opportunity to learn from experienced speakers, participate in engaging workshops, and meet other young people who share similar goals.
YES! will take place at the Brandeis-Bardin Campus of American Jewish University in Simi Valley. It is open to all high school students from Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Conejo Valley, including those in public, private, and homeschool settings. The event is free, thanks to support from local Rotary Clubs.
A Day Focused on Leadership and Growth
The summit is designed to help students explore their leadership potential while engaging in meaningful discussions about their roles in their schools and communities. The event will include:
- Motivational Speakers: Leaders from various fields will share their experiences and insights on leadership, resilience, and community involvement.
- Interactive Workshops: Sessions on leadership, ethics, public speaking, and diversity will provide practical skills students can use in real-world situations.
- Team-Building Activities: Collaborative exercises will encourage communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
According to Dorina Timbol, the event founder, YES! aims to show students that leadership is about more than titles or popularity. “It’s about making positive choices and learning to influence others in a meaningful way,” she explained.
Connecting Young Leaders
YES! offers students the chance to meet peers who are also motivated to lead and inspire others. By bringing young people together from different schools and communities, the event provides an opportunity to build connections and support networks that last beyond the summit.
The event is inspired by Rotary’s RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) program but is open to all students, regardless of academic background or experience. The focus of YES! is on empowering every student to realize their potential.
Volunteer Opportunities
YES! relies on volunteers who contribute in various roles, including:
- Workshop Facilitators: Guiding students through discussions on leadership, ethics, public speaking, and diversity.
- Color Group Counselors: Leading small groups through the day’s activities, helping students stay engaged and connected.
- Setup and Cleanup Crews: Assisting with preparing the venue and ensuring everything is organized at the end of the event.
- Welcome and Registration Teams: Greeting students, providing event materials, and ensuring a smooth check-in process.
Anyone interested in volunteering can reach out through the YES! website: www.simiyes.com.
How to Register
YES! is open to high school students from Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Conejo Valley. Returning students are welcome but may be placed on a waiting list to allow first-time participants a chance to attend. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.
As the date approaches, organizers are hopeful that YES! will encourage even more students to explore their leadership potential and inspire positive change in their communities.
For more information or to register, visit the event’s social media pages, the YES! website, or email [email protected].
