During a recent government meeting, Tamara Washington Jones and her co-host Devita General presented an innovative program aimed at empowering youth and young adults. Titled \"Youth and Young Adults Navigating Outwards,\" the initiative seeks to bridge learning and social gaps by providing engaging pathways for career exploration and personal development.

The program's slogan, \"Start with you. Be the change you want to see, why not you?\" encapsulates its mission to inspire young individuals to take charge of their futures. General emphasized the importance of making learning enjoyable and relevant, moving away from traditional classroom settings to more interactive experiences.

Key components of the program include virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) applications designed to enhance engagement and curiosity among students. General cited statistics indicating that the use of VR in education has led to significant improvements in test scores and retention rates, highlighting a growing demand for such technologies in the classroom.

The program offers a variety of pathways, including workforce development, job preparation, mental health and wellness support, financial literacy, and arts and cultural activities. Each pathway is tailored to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge, from hands-on experiences in construction to financial independence training.

General also discussed the importance of mental health, noting the program's commitment to creating a safe space for youth to express their feelings and challenges. This holistic approach aims to foster resilience and self-acceptance among participants.

Overall, the \"Youth and Young Adults Navigating Outwards\" program represents a proactive effort to support the next generation, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. The initiative aims to create a positive impact by steering youth away from negative influences and towards constructive activities that promote growth and development.