Black achievers shine at the Y Summit in North Carolina
For the third consecutive year, youth, mentors, and staff leaders from the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Black Achievers Mentorship Program travelled to the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly retreat centre in North Carolina. From July 28 to August 1, 2024, they proudly represented our Greater Toronto Area (GTA) program at the Y Achievers Summit.
It was truly a trip to remember! Here's a look at our experiences and the unforgettable moments that made the event special.
Excelling in competitions
One of the most exciting parts of the summit was participating in indoor and outdoor events. Our Toronto delegates showcased their skills and competitive spirit in various activities, and we are proud they brought home several wins. From rock climbing to karaoke to a ‘70s best-dressed competition, our group proved their strength and determination as they tackled every challenge, showcasing their resilience and teamwork. Several of our Black Achiever youths earned praise for their perseverance, teamwork, and leadership skills. The energy was infectious, and the performances were memorable!
Meeting inspiring guests
Another highlight was the opportunity to meet inspiring guest speakers. Among them was Dr. Kenston J. Griffin, a renowned thought leader who shared his insights on leadership, personal growth, and success. His speech resonated deeply with our team, leaving everyone motivated and inspired.
One of our mentees won a signed copy of Dr. Griffin's book New Days, New Ideas! It was a memorable experience for our entire team, reminding them of the power of hard work and determination.
Connecting and building relationships
Beyond the events and workshops, the summit was also an incredible opportunity for our Toronto achievers to build relationships with Black Achievers youth and leaders from the United States. Networking and connecting with like-minded individuals helped foster new friendships and opened the door to potential future collaborations and mentorships.
The summit was a transformative experience for everyone involved. Attending staff Samantha Adebiyi, mentor Mureth Rhone, and mentees Urenna Nnoroh, Adaora Nnoroh, and Chloe Bucchan created lifelong memories. We are incredibly proud of our team’s achievements and look forward to supporting our achievers as they grow, connect, and lead in their communities.
We can’t wait for next year’s summit, where we will return with even more excitement, enthusiasm, and determination!
