Omicron Omega, Upsilon Eta Omega, Phi Iota Omega and Psi Xi Omega Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. presented a workshop to encourage, educate, and empower 6th -8th grade girls and boys in the Birmingham Metro area. This summit was part of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s signature program Emerging Young Leaders, which seeks to impact the lives of girls and boys in middle school by providing opportunities for leadership development, character building, education enrichment, civic engagement and enhanced academic preparation. This summit was presented in conjunction with the City of Birmingham 50 Years Forward Celebration. The summit was a tool to help guide and empower tomorrow’s leaders to make positive choices that effect life-long values.
The meditation was given by Ms. Karen Lee member of Omicron Omega and greetings were given by Ms. Terricetta McCall, president of Omicron Omega and a representative of the Mayor, City of Birmingham. Next, the introduction of the speaker was given by Ms. Ovuke’ Emonina, member of Psi Xi Omega. The summit charge was led by Mr. Iverson Dudley of Bessemer City Schools.
Next, the introduction of master of ceremony by Ms. Brooke Adams, president of Upsilon Eta Omega and the Master of Ceremony for the Summit was motivational speaker Mr. Brian Rice.
The participants were able to participate in Health and Wellness, Character Building, STEMS and Leadership Development workshops.
Health and Wellness – “No Blurred Lines”
This workshop energized participants by participating in a mini workout session. Ms. Lamesa Brooks, Certified Zumba Fitness instructor, started the event by getting everyone up and moving with a physical workout. Physical activity is an important part of a healthy body, mind and spirit. Participants learned the importance of eating healthy and make good choices when eating. Participants moved and grooved to the sounds of the Top 10 hits.
Character Development – “Mirror, Mirror”
This workshop helped participants see past the “mirror” and learn how to love themselves for who they are. Presenter, Dr. Chastity McDavid talked about bullying and social media. The workshop’s goal is to develop positive self-image by positive communication.
Academic Preparation – “Fine China”
This workshop provided participants with information on the importance of educational preparedness by providing resources and information on going to high school, ACT Prep, college funding, and the tools needed to attend college. Presenter was Dr. Evelyn Nettles, member of Upsilon Eta Omega.
Leadership Development – “Suit and Tie”
This workshop helped participants develop leadership skills and provide information on how to become an effective leader. Mr. Anthony Sparks gave an arousing presentation using various elements of pop culture that the students could relate to.
STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) —“Diamonds”
This workshop incorporated various elements of science technology, explaining the common everyday instances in which Science is used. Ms. Katie Bush, from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, was the presenter.
After the workshops concluded, the introduction of the speaker was given by Mrs. Angela Day, EYL Summit Chairman and member of Omicron Omega. The keynote speaker for the Summit was Mr. Alex DeJarnett, Coordinator of Greek Life and Community Involvement, at Florida A&M University. Mr. DeJarnett incorporated the theme of the 50 Years Forward message inspiring the leaders of tomorrow to reach for their dreams and never give up. Ms. Candice Griffith of Psi Xi Omega and Mrs. Angela Day of Omicron Omega made a special presentation and the presentation was followed by the awarding of door prizes by Mrs. Gloria Howard, president of Phi Iota Omega and Mrs. Chondrelle Harrison, member of Upsilon Eta Omega.
The Summit concluded with closing remarks given by Ms. Michelle Harris, EYL Summit Co-chairman and Vice-President of Upsilon Eta Omega.
Students received several keepsakes including, school supplies, a tote bag, snacks and a Commemorating the Civil Rights Movement with Award-Winning Stories featuring interview with Christopher Paul Curtis and LeVar Burton with audiobook clips from “Watsons go to Brimingham-1963” “Elijah of Buxton” , “The Lions of Little Rock”, “We’ve Got A Job: The 1963 Birmingham Childrens’s March”, “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry”, and “Crow”. More than two hundred students from the greater Birmingham Area attended the summit.
