Call Us MN: 24/7 confidential, bilingual crisis line (651) 772-1611
By Silvana Domke
It was no ordinary Saturday at Hamline University. Even though the morning air was still chilly in St. Paul, it only took a few minutes for the energy, laughter, and presence of youth to warm up every corner of the campus. From the moment the Esperanza United team stepped into the Anderson Center, you could feel it – that special mix of nerves, excitement, and the genuine desire to connect.
The “Our Voice, Our Power: Juntos por el Cambio” conference was truly something special. Right from the start, it felt like community. Seeing the youth leaders in their black Amig@s shirts, ready to guide their peers through the day, was such a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about speaking the loudest – it’s about showing up, supporting others, and leading with heart.
The workshops were diverse, thoughtful, and exactly what our youth needed. We explored topics like healthy relationships, neurodiversity, social media and self-love, substance use and prevention, friendship, and personal empowerment. Each session felt like an invitation to reflect, to speak up, and to be unapologetically yourself. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of youth create their own EmpowerBands, bracelets with powerful messages of self-worth. It was creative, fun, and full of meaning.
Between sessions, there was time to explore the Clothesline Memorial Fair, enjoy a relaxed campus tour, and connect with other young people from different walks of life. The vibe was so relaxed and joyful, it was easy to forget where we were – it felt like being among family, with people who get you.
As the group of youth leaders, attendees and staff gathered again for the closing and prize giveaways, no one really wanted the day to end. There were smiles, hugs, and this shared feeling that we’d just been part of something really meaningful. This wasn’t just a conference – it was a beautiful reminder that young people have so much to say, and when we make space for their voices, change is already happening.
I’m so grateful to have been part of this experience. Here’s to more spaces like this, where youth feel seen, valued, and confident that their voice and power can truly transform the world. Stay connected for updates on upcoming events and opportunities to engage with our vibrant community.
View this post on Instagram