Pasadena Deltas Host Successful Young African American Women’s Conference

 

Nicole Whaley – Co-Chair, Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, Beverly White – Keynote Speaker, Tom Selinski, PISD Board Member, Tanganica Turner – Co-Chair

On Saturday, March 26, 2011 at Pasadena City College, the Pasadena Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presented the 9th Annual Young African American Women’s Conference (YAAWC) for girls grades 7 to 12. The theme this year was “Your G.P.S. 4 Success – Goals ● Preparation ● Strategy” and the event provided an opportunity for approximately 350 girls to explore educational institutions, gain information on career options and learn about a variety of relevant life issues. All participants received conference materials, numerous give-a-ways in their conference bag, continental breakfast, lunch and the opportunity to win great raffle prizes.

At the conference opening session; the audience was welcomed to the campus by Johari Dewitt-Rogers, Director of Media Services at PCC and greeted by Kathy Murrell, President of the Pasadena Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ms. Beverly White, veteran General Assignment Reporter for Channel 4 News served as the YAAWC keynote speaker. Ms. White delivered an inspirational address to the program participants.  Her powerful address included guidance to act on faith, get out of your comfort zone, be a good student, register to vote and vote, read-read-read, stay out of trouble, dress appropriately, clean up technology spaces, show courtesy and respect, choose relationships carefully and carry yourself with confidence. The audience was completely engaged in the speech and demonstrated their appreciation with a standing ovation.

 

Beverly White delivering keynote speech

The conference day included numerous workshops related to the goal of the day and presented by experts in the field. Workshops were presented in the following career fields: cosmetology, culinary arts, entertainment, the legal profession and aerospace engineering as well as resume writing & Interview skills. Life skill workshops covered financial aid, financial literacy, the importance of a mentor, HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases, body image, self esteem, healthy & unhealthy relationships, effects of substance abuse, nutrition & exercise, skills for cyber safety and ways to cope with stress. Parent workshops reviewed how to keep your kids safe and the importance of involvement in your child’s education. The YAAWC closing session presented a student panel which discussed setting goals balancing activities with academics, time management and ways to overcome challenges.

There were also visiting exhibitors from the community, business, and education communities to discuss employment opportunities, qualifications for certain careers and details on making the appropriate educational choice.

The 9th Annual Young African American Women’s Conference Planning Committee was made up of a group of very committed volunteers, led by Co-Chairs – Tanganica Turner and Nicole Whaley.

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