KDA GLOBAL-USA African Diaspora Youth Retreat/Camp

Dates: August 12th to 17th, 2024, Venue: Holland, West Michigan, USA

Theme: Discovering Purpose, Passion, and Identity for Your Future in an AI Age

Registration opens: 1^st April 2024 and Closes: 30^th June 2024 

Age Group: 13 – 20 years

Non-refundable application fee: $10. Pay via CashApp to: $kdaglobalusa and Zelle: Kdaglobalusa@yahoo.com

Register here: https://bit.ly/AfricanYouthCamp

Overview:

KDA Global-USA proudly presents the forthcoming African Diaspora Youth Retreat/Camp, a groundbreaking initiative poised to redefine the empowerment landscape for the African diaspora's next generation in the USA. The theme of the Camp is: Discovering Purpose, Passion, and Identity for Your Future in an AI Age. Scheduled for a five-day immersive experience in the picturesque environment of Holland, MI, from the 12^th to the 17^th of August 2024, this retreat is meticulously crafted to catalyze a transformative journey for 50+ teenagers of ages 13 to 20. The overarching ambition is to navigate the intricacies of identity, passion, and purpose amidst the dynamic shifts of the AI age, ensuring our youth are not merely spectators but active participants in shaping the future.

In an era where the question of 'purpose' becomes increasingly complex against the backdrop of technological advancement, the retreat offers a structured environment for introspection and discovery. Participants will engage in guided sessions to unearth their individual purposes, aligning their personal goals with the broader societal needs that AI and technology can address. This exploration will be facilitated through workshops focusing on self-awareness, goal setting, and the intersection of personal passion with global challenges.

Recognizing that passion is the fuel for purpose, the program is designed to ignite and cultivate the diverse interests of the youth. Through hands-on experiences, interactive workshops, and mentorship sessions, participants will delve into the realms of AI, technology, arts, culture, and social entrepreneurship. These activities aim to broaden their horizons but also to spark a deep-seated passion for innovation and creativity, laying the groundwork for a future where their careers and interests contribute to meaningful societal impact.

Amidst the globalizing influence of technology, maintaining a connection to one's cultural roots is paramount. The retreat emphasizes the importance of cultural identity and pride, offering a safe space for teens to explore and celebrate their African heritage. Through storytelling, cultural workshops, and interaction with role models from the diaspora, the program fosters a strong sense of belonging and identity. This celebration of heritage serves as a cornerstone for building resilience and a positive self-image in a world where AI and digital media continually reshape notions of community and identity.

As AI reshapes the work landscape and society, equipping our youth with the necessary skills is critical. The retreat will cover critical thinking, digital literacy, ethical considerations in technology, and foundational knowledge in AI and machine learning. These sessions aim to demystify AI and inspire a proactive approach to technology, emphasizing its potential for solving real-world problems while also addressing ethical implications and the importance of human-centered design.

Building a supportive community is a key pillar of the retreat. Participants will have numerous opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and professionals from the African diaspora who are making strides in various sectors. These networking sessions are designed to build lasting relationships, foster a sense of community, and provide role models who exemplify the integration of purpose, passion, and cultural identity in their personal and professional lives.

Objectives:

1. Empowerment through Education: Equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and the digital age.
2. Identity and Cultural Pride: Foster a sense of pride and belonging among African diaspora youth, encouraging them to explore and embrace their cultural heritage.
3. Career guidance: provide insights into emerging career paths within the AI and technology sectors, highlighting the importance of STEM education.
4. Networking and Community Building: Create a platform for teens to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships with their peers within the African diaspora community.
5. Parental Engagement: Host a side engagement for parents (virtual or physical) to discuss strategies for supporting their children's educational and career paths in an AI-driven future.

Key Activities:

• Interactive Workshops: Sessions on AI ethics, digital literacy, career planning, and more.
• Inspirational Talks: Engagements with successful professionals from the African diaspora community in STEM fields.
• Cultural Exploration: Activities that celebrate African heritage and encourage cultural pride.
• Recreational Activities: Games and outdoor activities to promote teamwork, leadership, and physical wellness.
• Parental Sessions: Workshops and discussions tailored to help parents guide their children in making informed career choices in the AI age.

The KDA Global-USA African Diaspora Youth Retreat/Camp is more than just an event; it's a launchpad for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. By focusing on purpose, passion, identity, and the requisite skills for the AI age, the retreat promises a transformative experience that will empower participants to chart their paths confidently. In doing so, we not only prepare our youth for the future but also ensure they have the tools and resilience to shape it. This camp represents a unique opportunity to inspire and prepare our youth for a future where technology and identity converge. Through this retreat, we aim to instill a sense of purpose and confidence in the next generation, ensuring they are ready to lead and thrive in an AI-dominated world.

RSVP:

info@kdaglobal-usa.com

cc: gerald.baraza@kdaglobal-usa.com

       cizarina.nasirumbi@kdaglobal-usa.com