The City of Wilmington, through its Department of Parks and Recreation, is gearing up to present a groundbreaking event for the youth, the Next Level Youth Leadership Summit. Scheduled to unfurl on August 14, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the summit's home will be the Community Education Building at 1200 N. French Street.
What sets this summit apart from the usual is its inception, molded not by seasoned executives but by interns of Wilmington's Next Level Youth Internship Program. The program, a newcomer to the city's youth initiatives, offers young adults aged 18 to 20 opportunities for career development, as disclosed by a recent announcement from the City of Wilmington. "This summit is a celebration of youth voice, leadership, and vision," Dr. Melody Phillips, the city's Director of Parks and Recreation, conveyed in the statement.
The interns have been convening weekly to cultivate every aspect of the event, including subcommittees focusing on various facets such as catering, registration, and advertising. It's an educational smorgasbord with workshops on career readiness, personal development, and financial literacy on the docket, complete with a collaboration with Bank of America for a special session.
Mayor John Carney has thrown his support behind the initiative, lauding the youth's commitment and proactive stance. "When we give our young people the tools and trust to lead, they rise to the challenge and remind, all of us what’s possible," the Mayor effused in a statement. Youth leaders Nasir Bryant and Ololade Olubowale are not only heading the event but will also grace the podium as keynote speakers.
The city is extending an open invitation to the media to cover this inaugural summit. For those looking to attend, registration is required by August 7, 2025, with details available online and through a QR code featured on the event's flyer. More information can be acquired by reaching out to Nichole Torrence at her email, [email protected].
