An annual Youth Symposium hosted by the London Black History Coordinating Committee will be held on Friday, Feb. 20. The free event, which will take place in the Freemasons Room at the Boys & Girls Club of London, aims to, “embrace, encourage and engage” the youth of London. It is open to all Londoners aged 15 to 25.

Justin Keating, the chair for the youth symposium, said the purpose of the event is to engage with youth in the London community and discuss some of the issues they face in today’s society, as well as to encourage young people towards a successful future.

“The goal of the symposium is to show that regardless of who you are or where you come from, there are always opportunities to be successful,” said Keating.

He said that although it is Black History Month, the event is open to all students regardless of ethnicity or gender.

The event will feature a speaker panel that aims to inspire all attendants, as well as four discussion groups. The topics are networking and community involvement, education, employment in the 21st century and spirituality and social change.

Keating said there will be a wide range of professionals available for networking as well as information displays about youth-oriented programs.

He said every young person should come to the event.

“Expect an exciting afternoon! If you aren’t really sure what you want to study during post-secondary or you’re having a hard time getting employment after you’ve completed your education, this will be an opportunity to get some information on what careers are out there and how you can be successful.”

Keating added that if that is not enough to entice you there will be free snacks provided by United Way and the London Black History Coordinating Committee at the end of the symposium.

The event will run from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. with doors opening at 12:45. Anyone interested must first register online at Eventbrite.ca.