Youth violence, drunk driving and gang warfare make for sensational headlines and top stories on TV newscasts.
But it also paints a negative picture of teenagers across the Lower Mainland.
So last Saturday, more than 150 students gathered at the fourth annual Engaging Leadership in Teens (ELITE) conference to shatter that stereotype.
I pulled up 20 minutes early and saw at least 100 smiling teen-age faces full of energy and enthusiasm ready to take part in a weekend of learning, workshops and discussions.
I especially took pride in the fact we saw students of all different backgrounds and grades representing more than 30 schools.
I have been involved with ELITE for three years and can say, without a doubt, this was our best conference.
If it was not for the excellent work of the planning committee (Elissia, Vikas, Abin, Payam, Humaira, Kiran and Eda) and more than 40 volunteers, our conference would have not gone as smoothly as it did.
Highlights of the weekend included an Amazing Race designed to develop leadership and team skills, a productive discussion with our keynote speaker Ujjal Dosanjh and just interacting with workshop leaders.
Fellow organizer Abin Antony and I spoke to students who attended the conference this year about their thoughts, and comments validated the months of hardwork put into making the conference a success.
One student said, "I registered for the ELITE conference hoping that I would learn a lot about how to become a great leader and I got just that. With the team-building workshops, the public-speaking exercises and the awesome keynote speakers, I came out of the conference more confident in myself.
"The conference was so much fun, the leaders were great and the organizers did a fantastic job. I urge all high school student to attend Elite 2010. It's an experience you don't want to miss."
ELITE was designed for students who are involved in their communities and school to develop as leaders, teammates, voice their opinions and to network, meet students and leaders who have similar goals and ideas and to just have fun.
If you are a high school student who is looking for an experience of a life time, this is the conference for you.
If you would like to volunteer or are interested in sponsorship, visit www.stiubc.com or email us at ubc.sti@gmail.com.
