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CLICK HERE: The Latest News for You - AAYLC (to 3/8/25)

January 2025 | Volume 61

Essential Insights this Quarter

Executive Director's Corner

As we step into the new year, let's embrace the endless possibilities ahead. Every day presents a fresh start—an opportunity to chase our dreams and make a positive impact. The challenges we face are chances to grow stronger and wiser. Let's carry forward the lessons from last year, cherish the moments of joy, and remain hopeful for the future. Together, we can create a year filled with success, happiness, and fulfillment.

Looking ahead, we are thrilled about the 33rd Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference, which will be held on March 8, 2025. The theme for this year's conference, “Breaking Barriers – Finding Unity in Our Differences,” was selected by the AAYLC Student Advisory Committee. It speaks to the mindset of today’s young leaders—empowered, equipped, and ready to break down barriers. Let’s make 2025 a year of new beginnings and boundless potential as we come together to inspire and unite!

Sincerely,

Debra Johnson

Executive Director

AAYLC Launches New Logo

As we embrace the opportunities ahead, we’re thrilled to introduce our new logo! This fresh design aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver innovative programs and experiences that enhance student empowerment in their communities and beyond. Rooted in our motto—Empower. Grow. Connect.—the new logo symbolizes our dedication to inspiring and supporting the next generation of leaders. Thank you for being part of our journey as we continue to make an impact together!

Top Trends in EdTech for 2025

The education sector has advanced embracing more technology than ever before. Schools across the nation are updating their curriculum to align with the needs of the changing job market. The education sector is increasingly leaning towards hands-on learning and usage of data to improve student performance. Educators are also coming up with innovative ways to deliver technical information to students without making them feel overwhelmed.

The Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE) has outlined key technology trends that will impact the education sector in 2025.

Congratulations to Our New Board President, Dr. Paul Wiggins!

Please join us in congratulating Paul Wiggins on his recent appointment as Board President following a unanimous vote by the Board. Paul has shown exceptional leadership and dedication during his time as Interim Board President, and we are excited to see the continued growth and success of the organization under his guidance. We look forward to the vision and direction he will bring to the AAYLC in this new role!

Recognizing Student Excellence

Nominate your favorite standout student for AAYLC Student of the Month and give them the recognition they deserve, along with a gift card! Whether they excel in academics, sports, arts, or community service, we want to highlight their incredible accomplishments. The nomination process is quick and easy, so don’t miss the chance to shine a light on their achievements. Let’s celebrate our young leaders and reward them for their outstanding efforts! Click here

January 2025 - Kiran Ardoin

Kiyan is a freshman and maintains a 3.7 GPA. With a strong interest in math and machinery, Kiyan dreams of pursuing a career in a math-related field, potentially becoming an engineer (like his cousin who he admires) or exploring other career paths that align with his passions. After high school, Kiyan plans to attend college, aiming to secure a job in a field related to math, which is his strongest subject.

Learn more about this exceptional student

December 2024 - Leon Tsyganok

Leon is an outstanding student and athlete at Sproul Junior High, maintaining a 3.7 GPA in his first semester of 8th grade. His mother proudly shares, “Leon consistently embodies excellence through his kind and humble demeanor.” Leon dreams of attending a Division 1 college and pursuing a career as a professional basketball player. While he doesn’t have a specific team or state in mind, his commitment to hard work is evident in his academic success, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.

Learn more about this exceptional student

November 2024 - Dayne Solano

Dayne is a senior at Harrison High School, where he excels academically with an impressive 4.6 GPA. Alongside his studies in the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Dayne is a dedicated athlete, participating in both basketball and soccer. Beyond school, he eagerly gives back to his community, volunteering whenever possible. He aspires to pursue a college degree in Business and Sports Management, with a dream of working with the Denver Nuggets basketball team. His mother proudly shares, “He has the biggest heart and works hard at everything he does.”

Learn more about this exceptional student

Guidance and Growth

Across the Board

While we immerse ourselves in making resolutions and mapping out our plans for a successful year ahead, the transition to 2025 is about more than just celebrating past achievements. It’s an opportunity to recognize the dedicated community that surrounds us, the very community that will help shape this year into something extraordinary. This New Year let's strive for more than just exchanging traditional greetings. Let's use this time to inspire our youth and to reinforce the bonds that make our community so special. When young people feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to enter the new year with renewed enthusiasm and a commitment to their goals. Together, we can make 2025 our best year yet! Your unwavering dedication to excellence inspires us all. On behalf of everyone at AAYLC, we wish you a very Happy New Year!

To our youth in the Pikes Peak region and beyond, may this new year be filled with moments that remind you of your immense value. Your energy and enthusiasm elevate every year into something truly special. I wish you a 2025 overflowing with joy and meaningful accomplishments.

As we reflect on our journeys, let’s remember the wise words of Martin Luther King Jr.: "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward." Here’s to moving forward together into a bright and inspiring new year!

With deep appreciation,

Dr. Paul Wiggins

Board President, AAYLC

Matters of the Mind - New Year, New Opportunities

By Alice Miles, MSW/SWC, Psychotherapist and Adoption Placement Supervisor

The start of a new year is a perfect time to reflect, set goals, and embrace fresh opportunities. Whether they arise through our networks or from our own efforts, these opportunities can guide us toward growth and positive change. Let’s focus on what we want to achieve this year and use our goals to stay motivated and on track!

Developing habits takes time, consistency, and a clear mindset free from magical thinking. Magical thinking often involves believing that our thoughts alone can create change or influence the world around us, without the effort and action needed to make it happen.

Honoring the Legacy: Significance of MLK Day

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a day of remembrance; it's an opportunity to reflect on the values of equality, justice, and nonviolence that Dr. King fought for throughout his life. It serves as a call to action for all of us to continue his work in our own communities. Whether through volunteering, educating others, or simply showing kindness, this day challenges us to live out Dr. King’s dream of a more just and unified society. Let us honor his legacy by taking meaningful steps toward making his vision a reality every day.

What’s Coming Next: Mark Your Calendars!

33rd Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC)

March 8, 2025 (8:00am - 3:00pm)

This isn’t just an event—it’s a movement to empower and uplift the leaders of tomorrow! Join us for an unforgettable day filled with interactive workshops on Leadership Development, Fine Arts, College Prep, Black History, STEM, and more. Plus, enjoy live entertainment, prize giveaways, and meals—all included! A huge shoutout to our Student Advisory Committee for creating this year’s inspiring theme: "Breaking Barriers: Finding Unity in our Differences."

This is the ultimate opportunity for students in grades 6-12 from all backgrounds to connect, grow, and shape their futures. The AAYLC is open to ALL students who want to engage, learn, and be inspired. Don’t miss out—Registration is now OPEN. To register, click the button below.

The Village Workshops March 8, 2025 (8:00am - 3:00pm)

YOU are The Village! These workshops are designed to equip parents, caregivers, guardians, community members, and educators with the tools and insights to support the success of today’s youth. With expert speakers, engaging discussions, and practical strategies, these workshops provide invaluable resources to help navigate the challenges our students face. Join us in building a stronger, more empowered community where we all play a part in shaping the future of our young leaders. Don’t miss out—attend and be part of the change! To register, click the button below.

Seeking Sponsors, Vendors, Entertainers, and Volunteers

Join us in making the 33rd Annual AAYLC a memorable and impactful event! Whether you're looking to become a sponsor, showcase your products as a vendor, entertain our attendees, or volunteer your time, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Your support helps empower young leaders and strengthens our community. Take this opportunity to make a difference—get involved today and be a part of shaping the future! To sign up, click the button below.

Together We Thrive

Honoring Dr. King's Legacy: Mission Possible 365

January 20, 2025

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Preservation Society is hosting this year’s programming centered around the theme "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365." As they honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy, they invite you to join them in meaningful discussions and actions that reflect his unwavering commitment to justice and nonviolence. To learn more about this organization and register for their event, please click here.

Colorado Gives Day

December 10, 2024

We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to our Colorado Gives Day campaign. Your generosity empowers us to continue delivering impactful programs and opportunities for our youth. Together, we’re making a difference in our community and shaping a brighter future. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission!

WHealthy Unlimited "Dance Party"

December 6, 2024

The AAYLC joined the Millennium Allstars Dance Party to connect with youth, share our mission, and promote our upcoming conference. This exciting event allowed us to distribute flyers, engage with young attendees, and explore future event partnerships with WHealthy Unlimited. Thank you to the Millennium Allstars Cheer and Dance Team for hosting and inspiring community connections!

To learn more about this amazing organization, click here.

Discover the Heart of NCL Colorado Springs

The NCL, Inc., Colorado Springs Chapter is a vibrant group of mothers and daughters united by a shared commitment to community service, leadership development, and cultural enrichment. Together, they create meaningful connections while making a lasting impact in our community.

They are looking for new student members in the 7th - 9th grade! If you live in the Colorado Springs area, this is your chance to strengthen the bond between mother and daughter while serving others side by side. Like all NCL, Inc. chapters, they are dedicated to fostering relationships and building a legacy of service and leadership in their local communities.

To learn more about this opportunity, click here.