Fifth Annual Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit
Last updated on September 24, 2019
WHAT:
As an LGBTQ+ youth, Derek Shay, struggled to belong and often had feelings of helplessness that eventually led him to becoming homeless. Now thanks to partnerships with the Zebra Coalition and the City of Orlando’s OYES initiative, Derek is housed, receiving counseling and participating in community events with new friends he’s made.
“When I came to OYES last year I didn't know what to expect or what to think. I was scared of everybody and everything, but I could see the community here,” said Derek Shay. “I have an extremely hard time trusting people and an even harder time keeping friendships because people frighten me or make me think I am losing myself or my dream, but OYES is one of many ways Orlando has shown me the power of community and helped me feel accepted.”
This Saturday, October 19, Derek will join with more than 100 other LGBTQ+ youths between the ages of 13-24, families and community members at the fifth annual Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit (OYES).
Hosted by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan, Zebra Coalition, and LGBTQ+ community organizations, this annual free conference empowers Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ youth with workshops and interactive activities to help them become future leaders in the community by creating a dialogue about current issues impacting this population.
WHEN:
Saturday, October 19, 2019
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
** 9:30 a.m. – Mayor Dyer Media Window**
WHERE:
Valencia College West Campus
Building 8
1800 Kirkman Road
Orlando, FL 32811
WHO:
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan
LGBTQ+ youth, Derek Shay
LGBTQ+ parents, allies and community leaders
Community organizations and corporations
SUMMIT DETAILS:
The summit will feature a variety of workshops to help make a difference in Orlando, including:
· Let’s Talk about Consent: The workshop will focus on consent and healthy boundaries, and will encourage conversation among youth that attends.
· Queer Political Power: Attendees will learn how the political system works in Florida, what current policy issues are at the forefront, and how the youth can get involved. Informed voting and political participation are crucial to the advancement of our movement, visibility, and rights.
· Reaching Your Career Goals: The session will provide ideas on how to succeed in today's professional world as a member of the LGBTQ+ community by being their authentic self, defining career goals, and crafting a plan to reach them.
The OYES event is part of the city’s continued efforts to ensure that Orlando is a welcoming place that embraces diversity and equal treatment for all. The summit, sponsored by District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan is free and open to the public.
REGISTRATION & INFORMATION:
To register and obtain more information, please visit orlyes.org/register.
ATTENDEE PARKING:
Free parking is available at Lot F & G
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