100 Black Youth Conference Inspires Bright Visions

By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer On April 27, 100 Black Men of Sacramento hosted its 34th annual 100 Youth Conference. The conference brought together Sacramento youth for an engaging full day of fun and learning. With a mission deeply rooted in empowering young minds, the conference focused on health and wellness, economic empowerment, mentoring, and education, aiming to inspire the next generation to envision a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Since its creation in 1986 as part of the national organization 100 Black Men of America, Black Men of Sacramento has been committed to enhancing educational and economic opportunities for underrepresented youth in the Sacramento community and has empowered more than 2,000 mentees to become self-sufficient and responsible contributors to society. Under the theme “What They See, Is What They’ll Be,” the conference brought together students, mentors, and community leaders to engage in a day filled with motivational speeches, performances, and recognition of outstanding youth participants. Local rapper M’ster Lewis took the stage, energizing the youth with his empowering lyrics. The event was emceed by poet and comedian Russell Cummings, a longtime member of the organization. Cummings also helps lead one of the organization’s key initiatives,...