On September 12–13, 2025, ActionDignity hosted a two-part Youth Mental Health Leadership Training (Train the Trainer), bringing together young leaders to explore what leadership means and how to take action on mental health challenges facing racialized youth in their communities.
Exploring Leadership Through Sports
The first session began outdoors with a stretch circle, setting the tone with energy and connection before jumping into a lively game of kickball. Sports became more than play—it was a way to demonstrate teamwork, collaboration, and leadership in action.
After the game, youth gathered for a post-activity stretch circle discussion. Each participant shared one word or quality that comes to mind when thinking of a “leader.The group reflected on the important question: Can youth themselves be leaders in their communities? Their responses highlighted the creativity, strength, and potential that young people bring to shaping change.
From Reflection to Action
Building on the insights from Friday, the second session took a more structured approach, supported by a slide deck to guide the discussion. In small groups, participants worked through a Problem Tree activity, identifying a pressing mental health challenge facing racialized youth, mapping its root causes, and reflecting on its ripple effects.
From there, they shifted to a Solution Tree exercise, envisioning the positive outcomes they want to see and brainstorming practical solutions and actions to achieve them. This activity equipped youth with tools to move from awareness to action—turning their ideas into meaningful strategies for change.
Looking Ahead
The two days underscored that leadership is not limited by age. With energy, reflection, and action-oriented tools, youth are ready to champion mental health and create solutions rooted in their lived experiences.