UFCF Future Leaders United Students Shine at Statewide Youth Crime Prevention Summit in Fort Lauderdale
The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. (UFCF) proudly celebrates the incredible accomplishments and experiences of its Future Leaders United (FLU) students following their participation in the statewide Youth Crime Prevention Summit held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Hosted in partnership with Urban League organizations from across the State of Florida, the summit brought together youth leaders representing all eight Florida Urban League locations for two impactful days centered on leadership development, mentorship, mental health awareness, innovation, and crime prevention strategies for young people.
From powerful spoken word performances to transformational workshops and mentorship sessions, UFCF students represented Central Florida with excellence, passion, and purpose.
Day 1: Powerful Voices, Big Wins, and Unforgettable Memories
The summit kicked off with excitement and energy as FLU students arrived in Fort Lauderdale ready to engage, learn, and compete alongside youth leaders from across the state.
One of the highlights of Day 1 was the Spoken Word Competition, where UFCF’s students courageously took the stage and delivered a heartfelt performance centered around community, resilience, mentorship, and the importance of having positive support systems.
Their powerful presentation earned the team 3rd Place statewide, an accomplishment that reflects not only their talent and creativity, but also their bravery and willingness to use their voices to inspire others.
The students spoke passionately about how their journeys have been anchored and guided by their community, mentors, and support systems through the Future Leaders United (FLU) Program.
The moment was a proud reminder of the impact youth empowerment programs can have when young people are given the opportunity to lead, express themselves, and be heard.
Sandra Fatmi-Hall, CEO & Executive Director of the United Foundation of Central Florida, reflected on the significance of the experience and the impact it had on the students.
“Watching our students take the stage, speak with confidence, and represent our community with excellence was truly inspiring. This summit was about much more than competition. It was about exposure, healing, leadership, and reminding our young people that their voices matter. At UFCF, we believe in investing intentionally in the next generation, and opportunities like this help our youth realize just how powerful and capable they truly are.”
Following the competition, students had the opportunity to celebrate, connect with peers from across Florida, and enjoy recreational activities including pool time and fellowship at the Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel by Marriott.
Beyond the competition and entertainment, Day 1 emphasized the importance of building confidence, teamwork, and leadership while exposing students to statewide opportunities and meaningful peer connections.
Day 2: Mental Health, Mentorship, and Meeting Youth Where They Are
Day 2 of the summit began with a powerful and deeply impactful mentoring session led by Mr. Robens Chery titled, “I’m not Angry….. Encourage me.”
The session focused on youth mental health, behavioral wellness, trauma awareness, and the importance of authentic mentorship when working with young people.
Students and mentors alike were challenged to think differently about youth behavior and emotional well-being.
Several key messages resonated strongly throughout the session:
Behavior is communication. When young people act out, they are often expressing internal struggles, pain, stress, or unmet needs.
Anger frequently masks deeper issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, shame, fear, or environmental stressors.
Effective mentorship requires relationship-building, encouragement, patience, and understanding rather than simply reacting to behavior.
One of the most impactful moments came when Mr. Chery reminded participants:
“Reach them where they are to get them where you want them to be.”
That message aligns deeply with UFCF’s mission and the philosophy behind the Future Leaders United (FLU) Program.
At UFCF, mentorship goes beyond academics and programming. The organization remains committed to meeting students exactly where they are, helping break stigmas surrounding youth mental health, and creating safe spaces where young people feel seen, heard, encouraged, and empowered.
Julien Serrano-O’Neil, Chief Relationship Officer, First Vice President, and Chief of Staff of UFCF, emphasized the importance of mentorship and creating transformational opportunities for youth throughout the summit experience.
“This trip was a powerful reminder of why mentorship and youth engagement matter so deeply. Our students did not just attend a summit. They built relationships, explored important conversations around mental health and leadership, and showcased their talents on a statewide platform. Seeing them earn 3rd Place in spoken word while confidently representing Central Florida made all of us proud. These are the kinds of experiences that help shape future leaders, and UFCF remains committed to ensuring our youth continue to have access to spaces that empower, uplift, and transform their lives.”
The remainder of Day 2 included engaging workshops, technology exploration activities, forums with law enforcement professionals, and interactive discussions focused on leadership, innovation, community safety, and youth empowerment.
Investing in the Next Generation
UFCF extends its deepest gratitude to the Central Florida Urban League for making this transformational opportunity possible for the organization’s youth participants.
Special thanks are extended to Mrs. Elizabeth Grace, President & CEO of the Central Florida Urban League, and Mr. Carl Battle, OAG Program Coordinator, for their continued investment in young people and their commitment to creating pathways for growth, leadership, and success.
UFCF also recognizes and appreciates the unwavering dedication of its CEO & Executive Director, Sandra Fatmi-Hall, who served as a dedicated chaperone throughout the trip and continues to champion opportunities that positively transform the lives of youth and families across Central Florida.
Through initiatives like the Future Leaders United (FLU) Program, UFCF continues to empower the next generation through mentorship, leadership development, educational engagement, wellness initiatives, civic involvement, and life-changing experiences that prepare youth for long-term success.
As the organization reflects on an unforgettable summit experience, one thing remains clear: the future is bright, and these young leaders are only getting started.
