Logan Taylor, a motivational speaker and presenter for Y.B Normal, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, interacts with students on Thursday morning.
Junior High students from Genesee and Orleans Counties attended the annual Genesee County Youth Bureau Youth Conference on Thursday at Genesee Community College. Students experienced a day of learning, growth, and connection.
This year’s theme was “You Matter,” also the title of a speech and presentation by Logan Taylor, a motivational speaker and presenter for Y.B Normal, of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Taylor was with students for the first hour the conference, discussing the importance of respecting differences, thinking before acting and holding oneself accountable when making decisions.
After sharing his personal story growing up, he encouraged students to take a proactive approach rather than a reactive one. He emphasized positive relationships in life and stressed the importance of mental health as routine. He also highlighted the significance of social-emotional skills such as leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, and. empathy.
Students then participated in various workshops designed to enhance leadership, confidence, and essential life skills Twenty-two workshops were offered and students chose three to attend.
Topics included:
Self-Defense & Personal Safety
Social Media Awareness & Online Safety
Mechatronics & Technical Lab Tours
Building Confidence Through Geocaching
fulness & Positive Mindset
Musical Theatre & Speaking Skills
Healthy Relationships & Empowerment
Students also engaged in interactive hands-on activities throughout the day. Batavia Police DWI pedal car simulations, and the NYS Police and DEC provided K-9 demonstrations.
