Seven Albany High students had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Empower Youth Success Conference 2026 at the Hilton Albany!
During this gathering organized by New York State Network for Youth Success, Yehudah Levi, James Campbell, Marley Hyppolite, Phillip Walcott, Evangeline Blake, Suad Fagbenro and Cleana Brummell (pictured left to right) were invited to share insights and reflections on their leadership experiences at Albany High via a student-led panel: "The Power of Youth Voice" Strengthening Schools and Community."
After three weeks of preparation under the guidance of Student Engagement Principal Shermaine Moore-Boakye, Ed.D., our Falcons were poised and confident as they shared reflections with conference attendees about how community schools and after-school experiences shape learning and strengthen connections beyond the classroom.
For Fagbenro, the experience solidified the importance of speaking up. "I feel like a lot of people who are younger get scared whenever they want to say something," she reflected. "Get up and say it. Speak your truth."
Sitting on this panel was an intimidating, yet energizing experience, and we are proud of our Falcons for speaking from the heart on topics that truly matter to them and their peers. As active members of My Brother's Keeper and My Sister's Keeper, these young leaders exemplify strong character and promote an environment in our school community in which young people can feel safe, valued and respected.
With new knowledge gained and confidence built through this experience, we trust these student leaders will continue to lift others up in our school, our local community and beyond.
To learn more about My Brother's Keeper and My Sister's Keeper, check out our Clubs & Enrichment page of the Albany High website.