TCAH’s Youth Empowerment Conferences address vital issues—food justice, mental wellness, financial literacy, and anti-gun violence—resonating with the needs of New York City’s youth. In a city where approximately 30% of children live in poverty and youth violence remains a concern, our conferences provide a crucial platform for young individuals. They actively engage in dialogues to empower them to be agents of change in their communities. The enthusiastic participation of these youths, set against the backdrop of NYC’s challenges, underscores the importance of such initiatives. By focusing on empowerment through education, The Campaign Against Hunger contributes to shaping informed, resilient future leaders for our city.
CONFERENCE HOST
Medgar Evers College
1638 Bedford Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11225
WHYATTEND?
Your Voice Has the Power to Transform Communities
Understand the Connections
Dive deep into the complex web of social issues, and explore the causal relationship between food insecurity and gun violence. Understand how empowering communities through food access can be a catalyst for safer streets and brighter futures.
Network for Change
Connect with like-minded peers and mentors who are actively working to create safer, more equitable communities.
Raise Your Voice
Learn and practice effective advocacy to dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality and violence
Develop Key Skills
Participate in workshops designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to address the root causes of food insecurity and violence.
Be Inspired and Inspire
Hear from young activists who are making strides in breaking the cycle of violence and hunger, and share your own story of change and resilience.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Iyeshima Harris
Iyeshima Harris (eye-she-mah) began her journey in the food justice movement over 15 years ago. A proud Jamaican native, she navigated the challenges of cultural assimilation and found a deep sense of belonging through farming and community. Her early work—teaching food justice, advocating for universal free school lunch, and designing youth-led programs—sparked a lifelong commitment to youth empowerment and food sovereignty.
Iyeshima currently serves as the Black Land Stewardship Program Coordinator at the Northeast Farmers of Color Land Trust (NEFOC) and as the Director of Policy & Programs at Green Guerillas. She also holds leadership roles on the Accountability Council for the Food Sovereignty Fund Board at Glenwood, the CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute Advisory Committee, and the Community Gardens Task Force for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
With a double major in Political Science and Sociology and a Master’s in Public Administration, Iyeshima combines academic insight with lived experience to champion food justice, youth leadership, and equitable access to land and resources. She is deeply committed to integrating youth voices into traditionally adult-dominated sectors and advancing a just and sustainable food system for all.
WORKSHOPS AND PANEL DISCUSSIONS
Embark on an enlightening journey with our engaging workshops and thought-provoking speaker-led panels. Together, we’ll delve into the intricate interplay of food justice, poverty, and the pursuit of peace in our communities.
Our discussions will shine a light on the undeniable link between food insecurity, financial constraints, and the presence of gun violence. We recognize that fostering a healthy community begins with fostering access to nourishment.
9:00- 10:00 am – Registration, Breakfast, and Vendors
10:00 am- 10:30 am – Greetings, Welcome, Dr. Samuels CEO and Founder, and Keynote
10:30am – 11:30am – Conversations
11:40 am – 12:00 pm – Vendors
12:00 am – 12:40 pm – All Workshops
12:50 pm- 1:30 pm – Lunch & Vendors
1:40 pm – 2:30 pm – Entertainment Segment Raffle Giveaway Fun, Closing Remarks and Exit
Appetite, but no Wellbeing: Food, Hunger, and Health Crisis
This interactive workshop explores the growing disconnect between food access and true wellbeing among youth and communities. Participants will examine how poverty, food deserts, and systemic inequities contribute to hunger, poor nutrition, and rising health issues like obesity and diabetes. Through group activities and real-life case studies, attendees will learn how food justice movements are working to create healthier, more equitable food systems—and how young people can be powerful advocates for change.
Financial Seeds for the Future
In this empowering workshop led by financial experts from JPMorgan Chase, youth will learn the fundamentals of building a strong financial foundation for their future. From budgeting and saving to understanding credit and investing, participants will gain practical tools to make smart money choices today that can grow into long-term financial stability. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, attendees will be encouraged to see themselves as future leaders in financial literacy and economic empowerment.
Food for Thought: How You Eat Shapes How You Feel
This insightful workshop explores the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Participants will learn how nutrition impacts mood, energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. Through interactive discussions and practical tips, youth will discover how making healthier food choices can support academic success, mental health, and a stronger sense of self.
Planting Seeds for Change in the Nation’s Largest School Food System
The USDA’s National School Lunch Program is the farthest-reaching anti-hunger program for school-aged children and youth. Over the last few years, NYC Youth Food Advocates Interns have designed and distributed, analyzed and published their very own YFA Menu Survey Report. They collected nearly 1,000 responses from NYC public students to date to help the City grow a new vision for a student-centered and community-driven approach to school food programs. In this workshop, you will learn:
- What students like you are saying about school food
- How to provide feedback on school food
- The future of School Food
- The City & State Leaders supporting school food
- Current youth projects & policy campaigns
- How to plant seeds for change at your school
