Empowering Baltimore’s Youth: RND Associates Youth and Adult Partnerships Conference to Promote Health and Wellness
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
Baltimore, MD – In an endeavor to uplift and empower its youth, the vibrant city of Baltimore is set to host a groundbreaking event – the Youth and Adult Partnerships Conference. Organized by RnD Associates and generously sponsored by the Baltimore City Health Department, Johns Hopkins Center for Adolescent Health, and CLLIVLY, this remarkable conference will serve as a model for collaboration and a catalyst for change in the lives of Baltimore’s youth.
The central goal of this conference is to enhance knowledge, skills, networks, and resources related to exemplary youth and adult partnerships. The ultimate objective is to promote the health and success of Baltimore’s youth. The event promises to be a dynamic experience, featuring panel discussions, theatrical performances, interactive workshops, and practical sessions where both youth and adults work together on critical topics such as mental health, healthy relationships, sexual health, workforce development, strong self-concept, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
Rebkha Atnafou, the founder of RnD Associates, emphasized the significance of working closely with youth through shared responsibility, listening to their voices, and engaging them in programming. She expressed her belief that this conference would expand its focus from sexual health to encompass broader health and wellness aspects contributing to youth well-being.
Tamar Mendelson, PhD, Bloomberg Professor of American Health and Director of the Center for Adolescent Health, underlined the substantial difference youth-adult partnerships can make in promoting the physical and mental health of young individuals and fostering positive relationships.
This international learning experience will not only showcase Baltimore’s youth’s potential but also feature insights and contributions from youth and partners from various African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, Liberia, Botswana, and Niger. The exchange of knowledge and experiences across continents promises to be enlightening and inspiring, highlighting both similarities and differences in youth from participating communities.
Jamye Wooten, Founder & CEO of CLLCTIVLY, a cosponsor of the conference, expressed the importance of empowering the present to shape a healthier future and pave the way for vibrant youth and thriving adults. Tael’a Hughes, RnD Associates Youth Engagement Coordinator, emphasized the critical role of adults in providing the right tools for the youth, as their future depends on it.
The conference’s target audience includes a wide range of individuals playing crucial roles in the lives of Baltimore’s youth, including youth aged 14-26, parents and young adults, educators and researchers, youth service providers, health professionals, counselors, barbers, beauticians, faith communities, policy makers, and advocates.
The Youth and Adult Partnerships Conference is made possible through the dedicated efforts of its organizers and partners, including RnD Associates, HeartSmiles, Community Law in Action (CLIA), Equity Art Universe, Excellence & Ambition, and New Song Community Learning Center, Inc. The event also owes its international reach to dedicated partners, and thanks the Voice of Africa for their design, marketing services, and live streaming support.
The conference offers more than just knowledge-sharing. Attendees can look forward to free giveaways, raffle items, complimentary lunch and snacks throughout the day, as well as opportunities for free and confidential HIV and STD screenings and mental health referrals. Entertainment will also be in abundance, with a talent show, live performances, and DJ music to make the day both enjoyable and enlightening.
This event signifies the collective effort of the Baltimore community to nurture its youth and offers a platform for global exchange and collaboration.
Sincerely,
Rebkha Atnafou-Boyer, MPH
RnD Associates
