On October 19, high school students from Norco College’s four grant-funded Upward Bound programs attended the Youth Leadership Conference hosted by Riverside City College (RCC) in collaboration with the Riverside Latino Network. Themed “Mañanas con Ganas,” the conference gathered local students, community leaders, and educators for a day dedicated to empowerment and engagement.
Students had the opportunity to connect with peers while attending various informative sessions aimed at enhancing their personal and academic growth. The conference kicked off with a dynamic opening session featuring The Honorable Lucy Armendariz, a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, who shared her inspiring journey and emphasized the importance of education and community involvement.
Participants chose two workshop sessions covering essential topics such as mental health, wellness, and college readiness. Among the offerings were sessions on “Breaking Generational Curses: Fighting the Imposter Syndrome” and “Youth and Money: Preparing for Financial Independence,” led by expert facilitators.
Additionally, attendees explored a resource fair showcasing community organizations, including colleges and universities that provided information and opportunities for further engagement. Norco College's Ethan Martinez was the winner of a laptop, highlighting the spirit of achievement that permeated the day.