“A Transformative Event for Virgin Islands Youth, Ages 12-18”
The EmpowerU Youth Summit 2025 is coming to St. John on March 15, 2025, offering an exciting and transformative experience for students ages 12-18. The event will take place at the St. John Community Resource and Development Center, located on the second floor of the St. John Marketplace, beginning at 9 a.m.
Designed to inspire, educate, and empower young people, the EmpowerU Youth Summit provides students with essential life skills to help them succeed in their academic, personal, and professional journeys. Attendees will participate in engaging workshops, hear from inspiring speakers, and gain practical tools to thrive in all areas of life.
“This summit is more than an event—it’s a movement to uplift and empower the next generation,” said Dr. Latashia Edwards, Community Engagement Manager for the University of the Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning (UVI CELL). “With the support of our dedicated partners and community members, we’re shaping a brighter, stronger future for all.”
EmpowerU St. John – Session Highlights
The summit will feature critical discussions led by community leaders, professionals, and mentors, covering key topics such as:
Beyond High School – Exploring future education and career opportunities (Presented by Imani Mentoring)
Financial Literacy – Smart money management and financial planning (Presented by Banco Popular)
Mental Health & Resilience – Tools to navigate challenges and build emotional strength
Interactive Breakout Sessions:
Social Media – Understanding its impact and using it wisely
Personal Empowerment: Knowing Your Voice – Strengthening confidence and leadership skills
Speak Up & Work It Out! – Conflict resolution and communication strategies
Connecting Youth with Resources
Students will also have access to a vibrant Exhibit Hall, where they can connect with local organizations and agencies offering valuable resources for youth development. Organizations interested in participating in the Exhibit Hall can register at:
https://forms.office.com/r/8ppRcFiKMh
How to Register
This event is FREE, but space is limited! Students, parents, and schools are encouraged to register early at:
https://forms.gle/NaWK73jMXsUPebQy9
Volunteer Opportunities
EmpowerU is seeking volunteers to assist with event operations on St. John. If you’d like to give back to the community and help shape the next generation, sign up at:
https://forms.office.com/r/vEtw7eiPA0
Sponsors & Partners
The EmpowerU Youth Summit is made possible through the generous support of:
- VI Lottery
- Youth Empowerment Services (YES)
- VI Housing Authority
- Digital Lending Innovation, LLC (DLi)
- Department of Human Services (DHS)
“Together, these partners share a commitment to empowering the youth of the Virgin Islands and fostering a brighter future for our communities,” said Dr. Edwards.
About EmpowerU
EmpowerU is a community-driven initiative dedicated to equipping young people with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, and community engagement, EmpowerU fosters growth, resilience, and leadership in the next generation.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Latashia Edwards – latashia.edwards@uvi.edu | (340) 692-4112
Whitney George – vi.youthempowermentservices@gmail.com
Or on St. John, you may also reach out to: Celia Kalousek
Program Manager | UVI St. John CRDC
Business Consultant | SBDC & CEKA Ventures, LLC
Instructor & Project Coordinator | Peak Potential, LLC
Cell: 340-643-0019
Cell: 340-643-0019
Toll Free: 1-833-STJ-USVI (833-785-8784)
