Atlanta, GA, October 10, 2020 — Eastlake Male Youth Initiative (EMYI) kicked off its 2020-2021 program year with 20 students as the program enters its second year. The students—representing elementary, middle and high schools from Atlanta and DeKalb County schools, as well as two schools outside of Georgia—attended the orientation and welcome session on Saturday, October 10, 2020 via the Zoom video conferencing platform.
The session included opening remarks by EMYI Program Director Dr. Kenneth G. Torrence and Dr. William E. Flippin, Sr., Senior Pastor of The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church. “We welcome you and thank you for again placing your trust and faith in this program and its mission to create leaders and raise the trajectory of achievement among the young, black males in our community,” said Dr. Torrence.
Students were introduced to the EMYI program staff, student ambassadors and mentors as part of the session. Over the course of the next seven months, students will learn will interact with local, civic and community leaders through keynote speeches, presentations and mentor meetings. Students will also gain and develop skills needed to be effective leaders, focusing on communicating effectively, respecting self and others, setting goals, team building, resolving conflict, and cultural awareness.
The highlight of the session was an inspirational message from Dr. Robert M. Franklin, President Emeritus of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Franklin told students, “I really want you to appreciate and cherish what you have—don’t take it for granted. There are people who wish they have your experience and your opportunity [in Eastlake Male Youth Initiative].”
After challenging students on the five “wells”—be well read, be well spoken, be well traveled, be well dressed, be well balanced—Dr. Franklin allowed participants to ask questions. Students, ambassadors, mentors and EMYI program staff engaged Dr. Franklin in an informative discussion that allowed them to better understand his life and contributions to the community. Please click here to view Dr. Franklin's speech in its entirety.
