Name: Changing Minds: Stories Over Stigma
Start: 2026-04-29T13:00:00-0400
End: 2026-04-29T13:45:00-0400

Welcome to Empower Youth Success 2026!
Get ready for an exciting few days of innovative learning, engagement, networking, and fun. Whether this is your first time or you’re a returning attendee, we’re so glad you’re here to help make this event unforgettable!

Changing Minds: Stories Over Stigma

Wednesday April 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Hudson Ballroom

Our young adult speakers bring mental health to life through real stories of struggle, strength, and recovery. Students hear relatable voices who’ve faced challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and more—and learned to cope in healthy, empowering ways. Each presentation blends personal storytelling with education: recognizing warning signs, understanding that mental health is treatable, using positive coping skills, and knowing how to ask for help.

Moderators

Shania Irby

Eastern Program Specialist, New York State Network for Youth Success

Shania joins Network for Youth Success as a New York State Certified B-6 educator with seven years of teaching experience and many more in varied childcare spaces. She brings two years of experience in varied leadership roles within NAACP Troy Branch, and is currently a board member... Read More →

Presenters

Sarika Agarwal

Professional Young Adult Speaker, Minding Your Mind

Sarika spent years chasing perfection and relying on others’ approval, hiding her emotions when they were not received with the same praise as her achievements. As her inner turmoil grew, she developed depression and anxiety, faced cyberbullying, and struggled with harmful coping... Read More →

Wednesday April 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Hudson Ballroom Hudson Ballroom

Speed Session, Health & Well-Being Track

Empower Youth Success 2026

Shania Irby

Sarika Agarwal

Sign up or log in to save this to your schedule, view media, leave feedback and see who's attending!

Get help with the event