Clinton Elementary Hosts 2024 Youth Symposium

By RJ Smith

POUGHKEEPSIE – Clinton Elementary School welcomed Sigma Gamma Rho’s Youth Symposium this past Saturday. The event is held annually and is organized by the Theta Sigma Alumnae chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

The program was coordinated by Dr. Fatima deCarvalho. Dr. deCarvalho stated that the sorority was founded in 1922 and the symposium is one of their national programs. “It’s about educating young ladies,” Dr. deCarvalho said. “However, we chose this year to focus on young ladies and financial literacy, communication, conflict resolution, and the ability to be a leader. Our theme is elevating girls’ voices and dreams. We’re going to spend the day talking about how to communicate with other young ladies or how to communicate your feelings.”

A portion of the program was held in a classroom. Arthur Joseph welcomed the group of young participants, holding a presentation centered around music. Joseph invited the participants to attempt to reveal how they felt in response to several songs he played. He subsequently asked each youth to provide their name and state how they felt. The program Joseph conducts is called Thoughts Become Things Creating Moments.

“Thoughts Become Things Creating Moments is an emotional wellness program based on the power of music,” Joseph said. “Certain prompts make you say things and think other ways. When kids get a chance to communicate and speak to each other, they realize they’ve got similar things. It creates community. I think that’s the biggest thing we need right now. You can be next to someone for twelve years in school and never realize you have things in common. I think it’s key for children’s education. When you get in the zone, you’re listening to music. Imagine if you knew what those songs were saying. Imagine if those were your words. I think that’s a hidden connection and a hidden magic within yourself that builds your confidence. I believe children are the future.”

Dr. Crystal Waterman has been closely involved with the sorority for over two decades. She advised that the chapter has done multiple things for the community, such as soup kitchens and clothing drives. Dr. Waterman expressed the significance of the annually held event and what it has meant to represent.“Today is one of our national projects,” said Dr. Waterman. “Our objective every year is to provide workshops and opportunities for young people to build leadership skills. This particular year, we’re focusing on young ladies. We really want to focus on these young girls and help them understand their potential in the future.”