Brooklyn Borough Hall buzzed with energy on May 6 as hundreds of high school students from across the borough came together for “Summit to Success,” a day-long teen-led event focused on personal growth, wellness and leadership development.
Hosted by Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, the summit featured interactive workshops designed to equip students with tools to navigate high school and beyond, according to a press release.
From sessions on financial literacy and civic engagement to emotional resilience and self-care, the event aimed to help young people build a foundation for future success.
“When we invest in our students, we invest in the future of Brooklyn," said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. "This summit was about creating space for Brooklyn’s rising leaders to learn valuable skills, build community and empower one another as they champion the change they want to see in our borough and city."
The summit was created by Reynoso’s inaugural Youth Advisory Council (YAC), a group of 20 juniors and seniors from NYC public schools working to identify and address issues facing their communities through policy-based solutions.
The program, developed in partnership with Brooklyn North and South High School Superintendents and the Sadie Nash Leadership Project, emphasizes civic learning, grassroots organizing and peer-led action.
Workshops were led by community-based organizations, offering a wide range of experiences. Highlights included therapy puppies from The Good Dog Foundation, a painting and leadership session by Brooklyn Community Arts & Media High School, and civic engagement discussions hosted by the League of Women Voters of New York. Other presenters included Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, OneGoal, The Noble Touch Holistic Healing Center and Syclus Inc.
Janice Ross, superintendent of Brooklyn North High Schools, praised the students’ leadership.
"The students came up with the theme based on feedback they received from other Brooklyn students, recruited presenters and developed the agenda. All the adults did was support. This exemplifies true youth adult partnership in action. We are so proud of our students today and always!," she said.
Michael Prayor, superintendent of Brooklyn South High Schools, echoed the sentiment.
"The Youth Advisory Council is proof that when young people are given the space to lead, they rise with purpose, passion and powerful ideas. This summit reflects who they are, compassionate, thoughtful, creative, and committed to making Brooklyn better for everyone," he said.
Hind Sbaa, a council member, called the experience a high point in her high school career.
“Working with the Youth Advisory Council amongst some amazing Brooklyn High School students has been the highlight of my high school career," Sbaa said. "Being able to work under Sadie Nash and the Borough President is an honor, for making a change for my fellow peers has been the experience of a lifetime."
