RISE Drug Free MKE sponsored 4 Neu-Life Community Development program participants to attend the Vive18 Teen Leadership Conference in Phoenix in December 2025. At the conference, through a blend of live presentations, interactive activities, group discussions, and social experiences, Neu-Life youth were able to learn age-appropriate and culturally relevant information about substance use, mental health, and the role they play in protecting one another.
The Vive18 conference created a space for students to connect, grow, and learn. The immersive experiences combine substance use prevention education with leadership development, peer connection, and social experiences.
Introducing youth to conferences helps them see career pathways, opportunities for leadership, and professional expectations, offering a well-rounded education that simply isn’t possible during a class period or assembly. “Networking is not just about business, it’s about making connections with people,” said 11th grader Idaliz.
Hands-on activities help youth understand consequences better than just talking about it, learned 9th grader Zakarah. “Seeing how many people [are] taken advantage of while drunk [makes] me not ever want to drink,” Zakarah said.
Hearing stories and reviewing statistics can be an eye-opening experience about life choices and the long-term impact of making the decision to use substances.
“I left the conference feeling inspired and empowered to make positive choices and be a positive influence in my community,” said Jazmine, an 8th grade student.
Fellow 8th grade student Corey was able to discover strengths he can draw on to benefit his peers.
“These sessions made me feel like I have the capability to help my peers through the use of my listening skills,” Corey said.
RISE Drug Free MKE is proud to have sponsored Idaliz, Zakarah, Jazmine, and Corey at the Vive18 Teen Leadership Conference, so that they can put their new leadership skills into action in the community.
