Inspiring Minds Hosts 4th Annual IMpower Youth Conference

Middle and high school students from Youngstown and Warren attend enrichment activities and learn about wellness.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The 4th annual IMpower Youth Conference was hosted by Inspiring Minds, a youth education group, at Kent State University - Trumbull on February 21, 2026. The event featured enrichment activities, workshops on topics like college careers, financial literacy, Black history, and entrepreneurship, as well as a keynote speech by educational consultant Erica Booker.

Why it matters

The IMpower Youth Conference provides an important opportunity for middle and high school students in the Mahoning Valley to access enrichment programs, learn about their communities and potential future paths, and build connections with local leaders and role models.

The details

The conference included workshops and activities covering a range of topics such as college and career exploration, financial literacy, art, music, dance, Black history, and entrepreneurship. The goal was to give students a chance to learn about different subjects, discover their interests and talents, and gain exposure to new ideas and experiences.

  • The 4th annual IMpower Youth Conference took place on February 21, 2026.
  • The event has been held annually since 2023.

The players

Inspiring Minds

A youth education group that hosts after-school programs across the Mahoning Valley, including tutoring, college visits, and exposure trips.

Carl Diggs

The program director of Inspiring Minds, who says the event gives children the opportunity to learn about their communities and make decisions about their future.

Erica Booker

An educational consultant who delivered the keynote speech at the conference, with the message of helping students become the best version of themselves.

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What they’re saying

“Also to give them a space where they can feel comfortable, be able to ask questions about different things.”

— Carl Diggs, Program Director, Inspiring Minds (wfmj.com)

“Oftentimes, because social media is what it is, it keeps us from humanizing people and humazing experiences.”

— Erica Booker, Educational Consultant (wfmj.com)

What’s next

Inspiring Minds plans to continue hosting the annual IMpower Youth Conference, providing valuable enrichment opportunities for students in the Mahoning Valley.

The takeaway

The IMpower Youth Conference demonstrates the importance of providing middle and high school students with access to diverse learning experiences, mentorship, and community engagement to help them develop their skills, interests, and sense of purpose.