A major highlight of the youth symposium will be the keynote address by Ms Emeline King, an acclaimed American industrial and transportation designer, motivational speaker, and author. Photo: Facebook

A major highlight of the Youth Symposium will be the keynote address by Ms Emeline King, an acclaimed American industrial and transportation designer, motivational speaker, and author. Photo: Internet source

The Rotary Club of Tortola and UNITEBVI will host the Empower YOU Symposium on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Save the Seed, Duff’s Bottom, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Photo: VINO/ File

The Rotary Club of Tortola and Unite BVI will host the Empower YOU Symposium on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Save the Seed, Duff’s Bottom, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

This one-day event is designed to inspire, educate, and equip young individuals to take ownership of their health, mindset, decisions, and futures.

According to a press release, the event is not-for-profit and free to attend. The symposium will feature a dynamic lineup of speakers and interactive sessions focused on topics such as personal development and decision-making, mental and emotional wellness, nutrition, fitness, self-care, respect, accountability, personal responsibility, leadership, service, and community impact.

Emeline King to present keynote address

A major highlight will be the keynote address by Ms Emeline King, an acclaimed American industrial and transportation designer, motivational speaker, and author.

Ms King made history as the first Black woman transportation designer at Ford Motor Company, where she designed the iconic 1994 Mustang. Her keynote address, “I Made a Difference, So Can You!”, will encourage young people to believe in themselves, embrace their unique gifts, and recognise their ability to create positive change.

Dr Arliene T. Penn, founder of the Know > Fix > Live > WIN! initiative, stated, “I want our youth to learn from real examples of what is possible. This symposium is about helping young people understand their value, make informed choices, and realise that no matter where they start, they have the power to grow, lead, and win.” A cervical cancer survivor and health advocate, Dr Penn emphasises the importance of education, prevention, and personal responsibility in her work.

“When we focus on becoming the best version of ourselves early, we make decisions that protect our health and well-being. If we prioritise this in our youth, we are more likely to make choices that support our health,” she added.

Symposium aligns to youth empowerment mission

The Empower YOU Symposium aligns with this mission by bringing together professionals, community leaders, and youth advocates to create a safe, engaging, and impactful learning experience.

In addition to keynote speeches and presentations, the symposium will include interactive discussions and Q&A sessions, gender-specific breakout conversations, vendor booths from organisations focusing on health, wellness, and youth, as well as reflection and closing sessions designed to motivate and inspire continued growth.

The release added that parents, educators, churches, schools, and youth organisations are encouraged to support youth participation.