By: Maria-Paula

The second-annual Teen Summit RVA event, scheduled for Feb. 24, will see hundreds of high school students converge at the Greater Richmond Convention Center for a day of interactive fun, prizes, and engagement over issues that matter to them.
The leadership summit, designed specifically for teens, will see the students engage in interactive fun activities blended with arts and entertainment with topics ranging from gun violence, substance abuse, and mental health. The youngsters will also explore summer job opportunities in the InspireYouth@Work Opportunity Fair.
Registration was closed  after the event reached its capacity for 600 students.
Centred on the theme “I AM” designed to inspire, uplift, and celebrate youth through the power of positive self-affirmation. The events target is to promote leadership development and connections among participants. Students will also participate in breakout sessions to engage with peers over such topics as healthy communication, mental health self-care, financial management, and using art for healing.
The event, which includes lunch, was planned by local teenagers who formed the Regional Youth Advisory Council after participating in the inaugural Teen Summit RVA last March. Last years event was organized to help the involved youth connect and cope with various challenges, including mental health, youth violence, and isolation spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I had a great time last year at Teen Summit RVA,” said Shriya Bandla, a junior at Godwin High School. “I was able to attend creative workshops, listen to interesting meetings, and receive a lot of merchandise. I am excited about this year’s event because I was able to serve on the Regional Youth Advisory Council and helped plan the event. It helped me understand how much preparation it takes to allow the event to run smoothly. I hope all high school students can join this incredible event!”
Teen Summit RVA is presented by Henrico County, Chesterfield County, and the city of Richmond with sponsorship from Virginia Career Works-Capital Region and the Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond.
Public high school students in Henrico, Chesterfield, and Richmond can check with their school administrations for permission slips, bus schedules, and other relevant details for bus during the event.
Although sponsorship opportunities are available for companies and organizations,  the event, which begins at 9 a.m., depends on volunteers where adults are needed to help with work during the event. Volunteers can sign up for multiple shifts or several opportunities offer all day shifts. Members of the news media are also welcome to provide news coverage of Teen Summit RVA.