The Youth Council is committed to indentifying speakers who have insightful messages on a broad range of topics. 

 By RHONDA CROWDER
Staff Reporter

America is about winning. America loves winners, the story of the underdog, those who keep trying. What America doesn’t like are losers, professed Akil Marshall as he made an “L” with his fingers and positioned it in front of his forehead before a group of students and educators at the City Club of Cleveland Youth Forum Series last month.

 The City Club of Cleveland’s Youth Forum provides an opportunity for area high school students from public, private, and parochial schools to participate in a series for forums, enabling them to explore the value and responsibilities of free speech in a democratic society and gain knowledge about critical issues in their own lives.

Marshall, CEO and president of the Akil Marshall Organization (TAMO) and founder of Dance Afrika Dance (DAD), was selected to address the group because of his 20 plus years of experience in finding alternative methods to educate and inspire young people.

A passionate leader, he is committed to leveling the educational playing field for disadvantaged students by using visual and performing arts to positively impact the academic performances and outcomes.

“These will be our leaders in the 21st century,” said Marshall as he began his address. “Education is where the rubber meets the road and, in America, winning is the main thing.”

Marshall’s message went on to explain how to stay focus, achieve, and win in America. He encouraged students to beware of “weapons of mass distraction,” those people, places, or things that takes their focus away from pursuing their passions and accomplishing their goals.

“What you say to yourself everyday is important. We have to talk to ourselves everyday about winning,” he said. “And, let the world know you’re in it to win. Always say I can… I will… I’ll try.”

And by the looks on the student’s faces and the level of participation during the question and answer portion of the program, it’s safe to assume the majority of the students got it.

“Education is important,” said Taylor Houston, a 10 grader from John Adams High School in Cleveland. “I took away a lot of valuable information.”

Ninth grader Courtney Sargent, of John Hay School of Science, thinks Marshall’s message is very inspirational. She’s heard him speak on two other occasions and even invited other students to attend this forum.  

Joey Marginian, an educator at Lincoln West High School, thinks Marshall’s message is definitely one students need to hear.  “I think his message was excellent,” he said. “Too often our kids are rooted in failure. He’s given the message that all children are genius, they just need to realize their potential.”

Although the message is designed for students, Marshall believes it’s just as important for principals, teachers, and parents to grasp as well. It’s their responsible to “awaken the genius” in children.

To help them understand this concept, he’ll be releasing a book, “Winning in America: How principals, teachers, and parents can awaken the genius in the reluctant learner,” next month.

“Children have genius in them any,” said Marshall. “We can be rough on our kids. And, when we’re doing it, we expect an immediate result but we have to learn to encourage, motivate, and inspire children. We have to have a greater hope in young people and speak the truth to change the course of their paths.”

Kenneth Hale, director of youth programs at the City Club of Club Cleveland, said “The Youth Council is committed to indentifying speakers who have insightful messages on a broad range of topics and Mr. Akil Marshall’s message definitely resonates with youth, which could positivity impact their lives.

Nandi Wilson, a member of the City Club of Cleveland’s Youth Council and 11th grader at New Tech West/Max Hayes School, held the mic for students during the question/answer session of the program.

She said her participation with the Youth Council has made her more personable.  When asked why she joined, she said, “In order to make a better community, you have to be active in the community.” 

To see a video of the program visit our home page at www.callandpost.com