Virginia Beach City Public Schools hosted the 18th African American Male Summit at Green Run High School on Saturday, Jan. 24. This year's theme, “The time is always right to do what is right,” honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The summit empowers young men with leadership skills, resilience, and opportunities for academic and career growth. The event featured interactive sessions focused on leadership, mental health, cultural appreciation, and mentorship.
Between sessions, attendees met with numerous businesses, colleges, and community organizations to learn about career and educational opportunities—including exploring careers at WHRO Public Media.
WHRO Community Relations Manager Kelsey Backe and Producer/Videographer Tremayne “Treezy” Johnson talked with students about the wide variety of careers available with the station.
"Speaking to students is enlightening and grounding for me," explained Johnson. "It’s easy for me to get in my adult, productive bubble and put blinders on to the world, but engaging with students, listening to their interests, and stoking their curiosity reminds me how important my role as an elder is. It helps me see my experience as valuable. These children are the future, and I’m getting used to the idea that I can be one of many bridges to get on the path they long for."
With six television stations, five radio stations, and a wide range of educational services, WHRO offers a large selection of career opportunities. The station hosts several interns each year, and attends many community career fairs each year as well.
It's an important aspect of the station's public service, said Backe.
"Being out in the community, especially in our public schools, is essential to our mission because it keeps us connected to the real lives, voices, and experiences of the people we serve, and reminds us that public media is strongest when it listens as much as it broadcasts," she said.
More Photos from the Event:
If your school or organization would like more info about hosting a WHRO table at your event, contact us at marketing@whro.org.