June 24 – 27 2022
University of Youth Power (UYP)
On June 24-27 2022, we are hosting the eighth annual University of Youth Power IN PERSON, a for-youth-by-youth social justice conference that is modeled after a college experience. UYP is the premier youth peer leadership conference that provides Youth Peer Advocates and change agents the opportunity to build skills and expand their professional network. Young people ages 18 to 30 can register for this for-youth-by-youth social justice conference with a major of Peer Advocacy, Systems Advocacy, Recovery Advocacy with a specialty track for 14-24 year old’s called Disability Leadership.
For parents/caregivers of youth attending UYP under the disability Leadership major, click here for Foundations for Leadership information
Scholarship Opportunity
We encourage the education and empowerment of young people with social, emotional, behavioral health, and cross-system challenges by offering scholarships to the University of Youth Power (UYP). Youth, young adults, and Youth Peer Advocates, ages 14-30, that exemplify leadership qualities are encouraged to apply for a scholarship. If selected for a scholarship, you can attend UYP for FREE.
Keynote Speaker
Ken Nwadike, Jr.
Ken Nwadike, Jr., peace activist, motivational speaker, and video journalist known as the Free Hugs Guy online will present the Power of Positive Human Interaction and Ways to Bridge the Racial Divide. This keynote aims to create unity, civility, and build a more diverse and inclusive culture through positive human interaction.
Panel Discussion & Performance
Road Recovery Trax Program
ROAD RECOVERY is an entertainment industry-driven non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people battle addiction and other adversities. We empower young people with self-confidence and a sense of pride and teach critical communication, coping, and life skills through the power of performance. TRAX PROGRAM offers young people the opportunity to build healthy networks during challenging times, helping them avoid self-destructive or risky behavior. The program aims to empower and inspire them through self-expression and creativity while teaching invaluable life skills.
On June 24th, TRAX’s very own Ben Blair & Little Josie from Creative Connections OASAS Youth Recovery Clubhouse in Amsterdam will perform a live acoustic performance with original material followed by a panel discussion from young adults who have utilized creative arts, especially music, to assist them in their wellness journey. By leveraging the life experiences and expertise of the music and entertainment industry with the guidance and support from health professionals & peers, this is one example of how Road Recovery empowers young people with self-confidence, a sense of pride, and teach critical communication, coping and life skills through the power of performance.
Exhibitor Information
Youth Power is seeking NYS organizations to table for the UYP Resource Fair. This year more than ever it is critical that youth receive information about your services to explore successful collaborations between New York State and Youth/Family Peer Support programs and health plans.
The resource fair will take place June 25, 6:30 pm -8:30 pm at the College of St. Rose, Lally School of Education located at 1009 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12203 . There is NO COST to table. Exhibitors are welcomed to join UYP Graduation
NYS System of Care Project
Want to become a sponsor? Your sponsorship will underwrite the registration fee for youth to attend the UYP. Your logo will be on all written and virtual materials and here on our webpage!
FTNYS continues to monitor and navigate the ongoing developments of the COVID-19. The health and safety of our FTNYS community are of the utmost importance and we are excited about safely gathering in Albany, NY on June 24-27.
We are abiding by and enforcing all guidelines set forth by the City of Albany and New York State. Per these guidelines, beginning on February 10, 2022 requirements for vaccine verification, proof of negative test and masks have been lifted. Therefore, FTNYS will not require vaccine verification, proof of negative tests or masks.
MASKS: Although the mask requirement in NYS has been lifted, attendees are strongly encouraged to wear masks.
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For questions or concerns, please contact events@ftnys.org