Following the Canarsie Honors Exclusive Ceremony on February 21st, the Shoot for the Stars Foundation held an empowering event titled “Forever Strong” at the New Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, 760 Dekalb Avenue, on Saturday, February 22nd. The event, aimed at encouraging youth to dream big and remain resilient, brought together community leaders, educators and parents for a day filled with mentorship, workshops and motivational discussions.
A Community United for Youth Empowerment
Attendees, including Charise from Crown Heights, learned about the event through social media and found it to be a powerful experience. “The highlight for me was the encouragement — not only for our community but for our children — to know that they can achieve anything. It’s about pushing our kids to keep going,” she shared. Charise, a mother of three, appreciated the event’s focus on nurturing the next generation.
Workshops That Make a Difference
The event featured a range of workshops, including one led by Decius Brown of DCS Brown Speech and Run Toward Christ, who worked with boys, ages 10 to 14, on the importance of character and integrity. “We talked about what it takes to be successful in life. I believe one of the most important things is being your true, authentic self,” he said. Brown emphasized the power of leadership and making ethical choices, teaching young attendees how to live a life of integrity and success.
For the middle school girls, another workshop focused on faith-based goal setting. Participants created time capsules to be opened in 2028, listing personal growth goals such as working on their temper and developing patience when facing academic challenges. This activity reinforced the value of long-term goal setting and self-reflection.
Honoring Dedication to the Community
A special moment from the weekend was the recognition of community leaders for their behind-the-scenes efforts. One honoree shared, “I’ve known Bashar and Hasi since they were little, and Ms. Audrey Jackson has been a mentor to me. I don’t do this work for recognition, but it feels good to know that my efforts are seen.”
Shannon Meminger, a national youth advocate, also participated in the event. With extensive experience in literacy and education programs, she highlighted the challenges posed by funding cuts and book bans but remained optimistic about communities finding internal resources to support youth development. “Education is resistance, and resistance is revolution,” she affirmed.
A Lasting Impact on Brooklyn’s Youth
Through mentorship, encouragement and practical life lessons, Forever Strong reinforced the importance of resilience, integrity and self-belief. Brown summed it up perfectly: “These lessons may not show immediate results, but in 10 years, these kids will be our doctors, lawyers, educators and community leaders. What we teach them today shapes the future.”
With events like Forever Strong, the Shoot for the Stars Foundation continues to empower young minds and strengthen Brooklyn’s community, proving that the future remains bright when youth are given the tools and encouragement to succeed.
