Thrive with Youth

Empowering the Next Generation: A Journey from Potential to Purpose

At the Thrive with Youth Experience, hosted by United for College and Career Success, we believe that every young person, especially those from underserved Black and Brown communities, has the potential to transform their future. This event is more than just a gathering—it’s a movement dedicated to equipping these young people with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to turn their dreams into reality.

From navigating the challenges of today to seizing the opportunities of tomorrow, we guide our youth on a journey that transcends mere perception. We help them build a new perspective—one that empowers them to see their true potential and take actionable steps toward a fulfilling and impactful life.

But this isn’t just about learning—it’s about experiencing. At the Thrive with Youth Experience, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in various interactive activities, like the InspireTank session, where innovation meets inspiration, and networking opportunities that foster meaningful connections. Together, we’ll bridge the gap between where youth are and where they aspire to be, fostering growth, resilience, and a sense of purpose. We’ll turn insights into action, transforming not just individual lives but entire communities.

In Focus: Make Your Path Today!

Speaker Spotlights

Felicia Martin
Director, Academic Programs - Texas
The Jed Foundation
Finding Balance: Navigating Mental Health in a Fast-Paced World

Felicia Martin, Director of Academic Programs at The Jed Foundation, explores the challenges of maintaining mental health amidst fast-paced demands. She offers practical strategies for achieving balance and resilience, empowering individuals to prioritize their well-being in today’s hectic world.

Ashley Willet
Chief Executive Officer
DiscoverU
Inclusive Experiences: Navigating Neurodiversity in Education

Ashley Willett, CEO of DiscoverU, delves into the importance of creating inclusive educational environments for neurodiverse learners. She shares insights on fostering understanding, adapting teaching strategies, and promoting equity in education to support every student’s unique needs.

Khaliah Guillory
Founder
Nap Bar
Should We Fake It to Make It?
Code-Switching in Times of Uncertainty

Khaliah Guillory, Founder of Nap Bar, explores the concept of code-switching and its role during uncertain times. The session examines how adapting communication styles can impact professional and personal success, providing insights on authenticity and resilience in diverse environments.

Bonnie Casson-Deweese
Senior Director of Postsecondary Access
KIPP Texas Public Schools
The Missing Map: Navigating the Journey from High School to Postsecondary Success

Bonnie Casson-Deweese, Senior Director of Postsecondary Access at KIPP Texas Public Schools, shares strategies to help students transition smoothly from high school to postsecondary education, addressing key challenges and support systems.

Jacob Sweeny
Executive Director
The Rise Initiative
Are We Building the Right Bridges? Shaping the Transition from Education to Career

Jacob Sweeny, Executive Director of The Rise Initiative, explores the critical gap between education and career, offering insights on how to better equip students for a successful transition into the workforce. The session highlights effective strategies to bridge this divide and foster long-term career success.

Meet the Sharks

INSPIRETANK

InspireTank is a pitch competition that showcases innovative ideas and solutions from young adults. During the event, four unique pitches are presented, each demonstrating creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. With a focus on the power of innovation and inspiration, the competition offers a platform for the next generation of thinkers and doers to bring their groundbreaking ideas to life. The sharks play a pivotal role in evaluating these pitches, providing valuable feedback, and helping shape the future of innovation.

Jesse Martinez
Founder, Invicible
Founder, LSA Global
Kenneth Scott
Founder, Leave A Blessing
Olivera Jankovska
Director of Education at City of Houston
Justin Nelson
Founder, Strongroom Investments
01.

Empowering Marginalized Neurodiverse Students​

02.

The Fear Of Becoming
Yourself ​

03.

Building a Bridge to Mental Clarity​

04.

Future Innovators:
Tech Fest Live​

Unique Experiences

Nap Bar

Nap Bar is a serene space designed for attendees to relax and rejuvenate. It offers a quiet environment where participants can take a break, recharge with a short nap, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment away from the event’s activities. This unique experience helps maintain energy and focus throughout the day.

AI LOUNGE

AI Lounge is a space for attendees to explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. It offers interactive experiences and insights into AI-driven tools, providing a unique opportunity to learn and engage with emerging technology.

Stories of Impact

Event Highlights