Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council members speak out on community challenges

Michael Rice

Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council (PYLC) members Jordyn Darden and Avont Gambell recently sat down with Sherri Pennington, a radio host at WKDU-FM 91.7, for an enlightening conversation on their career aspirations and their thoughts on the causes and solutions to violence in the city of Philadelphia. These remarkable young individuals showcased their passion for leadership and their commitment to making a positive impact in their community.

Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council

The PYLC is a prestigious ten-month leadership development program designed to empower boys and girls in 7th to 12th grade to take on leadership roles at school, at home, and in their community. The program focuses on cultivating essential skills such as leadership, presentation, relationship building, and project management. By instilling professionalism and confidence, the PYLC aims to strengthen the resilience and endurance of these young leaders in the face of the daily trauma they may encounter.

Jordyn and Avont, as participants in the PYLC program, have had the opportunity to attend weekly workshop sessions and engage in educational, recreational, and civic outings. These activities provide them with valuable experiences and broaden their horizons. Moreover, they actively participate in community service projects and engage in parent/teen involvement activities throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community and fostering positive relationships between generations.

One of the key components of the PYLC program is teaching the role of government and civic engagement. This is achieved through various activities, including attending town meetings, youth panels, and City Council sessions. By engaging with local government, these young leaders gain a deeper understanding of the democratic process and how they can actively contribute to the betterment of their community.

The pinnacle of the PYLC program is the citywide youth engagement conference, which is entirely planned, coordinated, and implemented by the youth themselves. This conference serves as a platform for young leaders to share their knowledge, experiences, and solutions to the challenges they face on a daily basis. It provides an opportunity for them to connect with potential sponsors, mentors, employers, and scholarship opportunities, further expanding their support network and opening doors for their future endeavors.

During the interview with Sherri Pennington on WKDU-FM 91.7's Community Conversation show, Jordyn and Avont showcased their immense potential and insightful perspectives. They spoke passionately about their career aspirations and how they see themselves making a difference in their community. Avont and Jordyn recently starred in a Video PSA highlighting the challenges faced by youth in Philadelphia, including human trafficking, substance abuse, and gun violence.

When discussing the causes and solutions to violence in Philadelphia, both young leaders emphasized the importance of addressing systemic issues such as poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and limited access to mental health resources. They stressed the need for community engagement, mentorship programs, and youthled initiatives that empower young individuals and provide alternatives to violence.

Jordyn and Avont's insights shed light on the complex nature of violence in Philadelphia and the necessity of a multifaceted approach to tackle this issue. Their ability to identify underlying causes and propose practical solutions reflects the effectiveness of the PYLC program in nurturing informed and empowered young leaders.

The Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council, through

See “Youth Leadership” page 12

Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council (PYLC) members Jordyn Darden and Avont Gambell, shown in studio with Sherri Pennington, host of the Community Conversation Program on WKDU-FM 91.7 after the Youth Leadership interview.

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its comprehensive leadership development program, is nurturing the next generation of change-makers and equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to address the challenges their community faces. Jordyn Darden and Avont Gambell exemplify the caliber of young leaders emerging from this program, and their dedication to making a positive impact is truly inspiring. As they continue their journey, these young leaders will surely contribute significantly to the betterment of Philadelphia and beyond. For more information on how to get involved in the Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council, contact program manager Terri Way-Thornton, at 215-605-1832.

Michael Rice is an award-winning social innovator and author of the transformational guide, Be Magnificent! Exceed Your Expectations. He is the Leadership Coach and founder of the Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council. He is the producer and content creator of 'The Connector Live,' a weekly internet video blog on the New Urban Network on YouTube. Want to learn more about Urban Networking and successful mind management principles? Go to www.michselricespeaks.com