MEMPHIS, Tenn. — High school students from across the Memphis-Shelby County area came together for the annual Youth Voices Summit Saturday, March 30.
More than 100 kids spent the day at BRIDGES, USA youth organization talking about the issues they see in the bluff city and solutions to these problems.
The goal was to address problems they see in their neighborhoods and brainstorm alongside those who can make a change.
“We can kind of find some solutions with these elected officials,” Shelby County Youth Council (SCYC) student Kya Harris said. “I’m hoping that they take our issues as youth more seriously.”
Problems discussed ranged from decreasing violence in schools, to improving diversity in healthcare.
“Provide translators, like volunteer translators at local hospitals so that patients are able to effectively communicate with their doctors,” one student said.
Another big concern was making mental health resources for young people more accessible.
“Sleep and time management affects mental health and feeling overwhelmed,” another student said.
All of the students came up with a list of problems and a corresponding list of solutions. The day’s goals were listening, learning and leading.
“Getting data from the youth and the problems they see and what solutions they want because they live in our community as well,” SCYC student Shakira Braden said.
“I’m most excited about giving people who haven’t done this before or aren’t used to talking to elected officials, the opportunity to do something they haven’t done before,” SCYC student Denesha Watkins said.
After creating detailed lists of problems and solutions, students met with Shelby County Commissioners, City Council members and even state legislators. The list of local leaders in attendance were:
Reginald Milton, Frankie Dankin, Charlie Caswell, Melvin L, Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, Michalyn Easter-Thomas, Jeff Warren, MD, Clay Wilson, Raumesh Akbari, Torrey Harris, Britney Thornton, Harold Collins, Kache Brooks, Brian Harris, Arriell Gipson Martin, Miska Clay Bibbs, Shanna Layrock and Amanda Prewitt.
The idea is for Memphis-Shelby County elected leaders to get to work using the initiatives young people want addressed.
If you or someone you know between 6th and 11th grade are interested in becoming a Bridge Builder, you can apply through the link here. The application deadline is April 19, 2024, for interested students.
We want to hear from you. Text “SOLUTIONS” and include your concern to (901) 321-7520.