The W.I.S.H. Foundation (Women Involved in Service to Humanity) and Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority welcome middle school age and high school age youth to their fifth annual youth symposium presented in conjunction with national celebrations of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

Students throughout Florida are granted MLK Day off from school. The MLK Youth Symposium is the perfect opportunity to engage youth in the meaning of the MLK federal holiday. Parents are encouraged to bring their children. Leaders of youth mentoring groups of all organizations as well as school and church youth groups are also strongly encouraged to bring their members.

This year’s theme, “Your Destiny Awaits You” sets the stage for an afternoon of education, enlightenment, inspiration and empowerment. Program organizer Dr. Cynthia Mitchell Clarke is delighted to present young civil rights activists, Umi Selah and the Dream Defenders to this year’s attendees. “Our students will better identify with other young people as our event unfolds. We expect the international reputation and rich experiences of the Dream Defenders will result in spirited dialogue and a positive impact on our youth,” said Clarke.

The youth will also participate in group discussions on two books by award-winning actor and best selling author Hill Harper: “Letters to a Young Brother: MANifest Your Destiny” and “Letters to a Young Sister: DeFINE Your Destiny.” These books are considered must reading for today’s youth, as they are educational, uplifting and inspirational.

The MLK Youth Symposium is 2pm-5pm, Sunday, January 17, 2016, at Miami Carol City Senior High School, 3301 Miami Gardens Drive, Miami Gardens, FL 33056. The event is free and presented in partnership with the United Teachers of Dade, Vice Mayor Felicia Robinson - City of Miami Gardens, Councilman David Williams, Jr. - City of Miami Gardens, and Miami-Dade County School Board Member Wilbert "Tee" Holloway.