The State of our Youth: A Community Conversation

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:05:51 GMT

Leadership Winston-Salem event will bring together local youth advocates, with opening remarks from Police Chief William Penn and moderation by Superior Court Judge Carrie Vickery

With the future of Winston-Salem’s young people depending on the strength of the community surrounding them, Leadership Winston-Salem is inviting residents to take part in an important conversation this Friday about the challenges facing local youth—and what can be done to help them thrive.

The Community Conversation: The State of Our Youth will take place Friday, October 30, at the Robert L. Strickland Center at Forsyth Technical Community College. The program will bring together leaders in youth development, education, mentorship and public safety to share their perspectives, discuss local needs and explore how the community can better support its next generation.

North Carolina Superior Court Judge Carrie Vickery will moderate the discussion, with Winston-Salem Police Chief William Penn delivering opening remarks. The panel will feature Joy Nelson-Thomas, executive director of LEAD Girls of North Carolina; Macio Freeman, Guide Right chairman for Kappa League of Winston-Salem; William Herrera, co-chair of the Winston-Salem Police Department Gang Steering Committee; and Mike Foster, executive director of Winston-Salem Street School.

Together, these community leaders will examine the experiences and obstacles facing young people, the relationships and resources that can make a difference, and the opportunities for individuals, organizations and the broader community to help young people build brighter futures. A question-and-answer session will give attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the panelists.

“This conversation is an opportunity for our community to listen, learn and consider how each of us can play a role in helping young people succeed,” said Katherine Perry, executive director of Leadership Winston-Salem. “Our young people are our future, and understanding their experiences and the work already happening on their behalf is an important step toward building a stronger community for everyone.”

The event is open to community members, parents, educators, youth-serving professionals and anyone interested in the well-being and future of Winston-Salem’s young people. Tickets are $35 and include a hot buffet breakfast. Youth may attend free of charge.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Friday, October 30, 2026

Doors Open: 7 :45 am

Event Concludes: 10 am
Location: Robert L. Strickland Center, Forsyth Technical Community College
Tickets: $35, including a hot buffet breakfast; free admission for youth
Registration: www.leadershipws.org

The event is a fundraiser benefiting Leadership Winston-Salem and its mission to educate, connect and energize leaders to serve and improve the community. Proceeds support the organization’s scholarship fund, helping reduce financial barriers for community members seeking to participate in its leadership programs.

Community members are encouraged to register and join this timely discussion about the needs, opportunities and future of Winston-Salem’s young people.

leadership-winston-salem

The State of our Youth: A Community Conversation

Leadership Winston-Salem event will bring together local youth advocates, with opening remarks from Police Chief William Penn and moderation by Superior Court Judge Carrie Vickery