By Jenna Capuano
The Rocky Mount Event Center hosted the Stronger Together Conference, a powerful one-day event focused on Black youth and young adult mental health. The conference offered a meaningful day of wellness, mindful connections, and community care. With workshops, influential speakers, and resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by many Black youths, the Stronger Together Conference aimed to create a space for growth and healing.
Rafiah Maxie-Cole, a social worker and advocate for suicide prevention, spoke at the event. She is the founder of Soul Survivors of Chicago, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide, violence, or trauma. She is an influential voice in the Black youth and mental health community, and her stories and background are known to provide healing and educational perspectives on life.
Along with the speaking panel, hands-on activities were an important aspect of the event. Yoga, sound baths, art walls, and interactive exhibits gave attendees opportunities to have one-on-one healing experiences. These healing spaces provide mind-body wellness, creative expression, and community connection. Having these resources available within the community is vital for healthy youth progression.
A youth-led cypher also took place during the event, using spoken word, music, and rap as tools for healing and connection. Professor Alex Flowers, a professor at Central Michigan University known as a “scientific hip-hop educator,” and his students performed at the event. Music was used to ground and process feelings, trauma, and emotions. This performance was a vital part of the conference, bringing voices to the forefront through musical connection.
In addition to the entertainment and hands-on activities, supportive resources were also available. Attendees have access to local and statewide mental health services.
Not only was this conference important for the Rocky Mount community, but it also brought people with similar experiences together to recognize that mental health is not a shameful struggle. Black youth wellness is a unique and vital focus. This celebration nurtured, empowered, and ensured healthier, more equitable futures for communities.
