Building Blocks of Successful Youth Advocacy Initiatives

Djakaria, Mayo

Friday, August 17, 2012: 8:00 AM

3501D (Kansas City Convention Center)

Mayo Djakaria, MPH , Rescue Social Change Group, Alexandria, VA

Joyce Lara, BS , Tobacco Free Missouri, Washington, MO

Ms. Nicole Sutton, BA , REAL: Hawaii Youth Movement Exposing the Tobacco Industry at University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI

Ms. Laura Corbin, BA , Bureau of Tobacco Prevention Program, Florida Department of Health, Rockledge, FL

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this presentation attendees will be able to:

Describe the key components of successful youth advocacy initiatives.
Articulate why point of sale initiatives are particularly important for youth to become involved with since this is where a lot of tobacco marketing still exists.
Engage youth in working on developing, passing and implementing comprehensive tobacco-free school policies.

Cross Cutting Program Area(s): Tobacco Control Movement – Skills Building and Tobacco Control Policies

Audience: High school youth, professionals who work with youth and anyone else interested in youth advocacy initiatives are highly encourage attending.

Key Points:

According to the CDC, engaging youth is essential for advancing comprehensive tobacco control efforts.
- In this session, attendees will hear about how Hawaii launched a point of sale initiative to bring attention to and educate the public regarding the industry’s marketing tactics aimed at teenagers.
- In this session participants will also learn how youth led the charge for comprehensive tobacco-free schools policy in Missouri.

Educational Experience: Participants will receive a basic overview of two specific but distinct youth advocacy initiatives. Students and staff will share their success stories and lessons learned.

Benefits: After leaving this session, participants will understand how empowered youth can effectively work on policy change.