Programs for Youth
Ages 14-19

 Writing and Communication
For youth ages 14-19, Podium partners with Boys & Girls Club of Greater Richmond, Partnership for the Future, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, and The YMCA to offer youth workshops that demonstrate the value of writing and self-expression in the modern world.
For Youth
Youth programs for ages 14-19 are designed to not only develop writing skills but also build confidence in self, communication, and to prepare for success after graduation. Through these programs, youth are published in quarterly zines, the Podium annual literary journal, and showcased via performances within program sites and the city!
Power of the Pen
Power of the Pen promotes youth development through writing and communication activities and workshops with a primary focus on using writing as a tool for positive personal expression and expanding their academic, professional, and creative skills.
Loving Our Languages
This program creates a supportive space for youth learning English to express and process experiences in both English and their native languages. Youth are able to build healthy communication practices with peers, adults, and family while sharing and celebrating their native culture.
Literary Publications
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 Professional Development and Personal Success
Common $ense
(ages 10 – 19)
A program for youth to learn about the critical monetary components of every-day life. Youth build tools needed for financial success by exploring employment,buying power and budgets, banking, debt, credit, and time-management.
Collegiate and Professional Prep Course
(ages 14 – 19)
This program prepares high schoolers for post-graduation. Youth draft college applications, personal statements, résumés, scholarship essays, and practice professional and university interviews.
Teen Professional Conference
(ages 14 – 19)
The Teen Professional Conference (TPC) is a multi-day summer program that creates a space for teen leaders to engage in professional development and advanced writing workshops. Youth practice critical thinking through writing and advanced group dynamics. Networking with professionals across fields, youth connect their passions and skills with careers as they plan for post-graduation.
Writing Mentorship Project
(ages 15 – 19)

The Writing Mentorship Project (WMP) allows high school upperclassmen to participate in a 6-week intensive summer internship that expands their skills in professional confidence. Teen leaders create writing workshops to facilitate within summer programs for ages 10-13, as well as develop skills in group dynamics and project management. WMP interns have mentored youth from The Peter Paul Development Center, taught workshops at the Full STEAM Ahead Conference, worked with middle schoolers at Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club, and much more. This opportunity to mentor peers empowers teens as leaders and helps them discover their career passions and pathways to success. This internship has the potential to be paid thanks to partnership with the Mayor’s Youth Academy.

Sign up by applying for the
Mayor’s Youth Academy Summer Work Experience or through Partnership for the Future!

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Podium Video Reflections

Teen Professional Conference

Writing Mentorship Project