Second annual 'Teen Summit' helps local kids

WILMINGTON -- Hundreds of teens came together at New Hanover High School to talk about issues affecting their lives. "I really wanted to learn if I have a problem, ask the problem," Julisa Canty said. She represents dozens of teens that engaged in a panel discussion with city leaders. Among those in attendance were Mayor Bill Saffo and North Carolina Sen. Julia Boseman. Topics ranged from peer pressure to homelessness in our community. The kids didn't hesitate to ask Boseman the tough questions. "They asked me what was I doing in Raleigh to end racism, big question!" Boseman said. Teen Summit organizer Brandon Hickman says those types of questions are what teens deal with everyday. "They're asking those questions, those hard questions that are not getting answered on a day to day period. This is the format, the outlet for them to ask their questions." Boseman agrees, "Certainly I think every adult here is going to be thrilled if we can help a few of these kids but we're going to try to help all of them." Canty says she will walk away from the summit changed. "I learned that I should just be myself and not try to impress anybody." Good advice for kids to remember.