What they Said Key Kintups Participant Quotes by Impact Theme
“Today’s experience taught me that even if I don’t agree with something, a good debater should still be able to debate against their own argument.” — Moussa Kebe (Debate, 10) “Everyone realized that AI is going to be the future.” — Tremonte Dunson (Debate, 10) “It’s very beneficial to learning how to debate and get your point across without yelling.” — Aboubakr Coulibaly (Debate, 10) Why this matters: This is civic readiness and workforce readiness, not abstract conversation. Critical Thinking & Future Readiness Intellectual rigor, debate, real- world relevance, AI & systems thinking
“Setbacks don’t disqualify you from purpose… strength, faith, and consistency can carry you through even the hardest moments.” — Jakyrie Jones (Guest Speaker Session, 10) “He reframed success and taught me that simply waking up and continuing to do what you love is still a win.” — Rodney Price (Guest Speaker Session, 10) “It helped me grow and have an understanding of life.” — Ej Dunson (Life Skills Session, 10) Why this matters: Youth are not just “engaged” — they are re-authoring their life narratives. Purpose, Resilience & Identity Development Meaning-making, perseverance, reframing adversity
Finding & Using Your Voice Confidence, communication, self- expression, leadership presence
“Had a chance to voice my ideas.” — Malachi Jones (Debate, 10) “It challenged our speaking skills, communication skills, and confidence skills.” — Abdul Coulibaly (Debate, 10) “I wish I could’ve expressed my opinion some more but I enjoyed it.” — Khalil Jammeh (Debate, 9) Why this matters: Youth are practicing agency, not just attendance. Even passives are asking for more opportunity to speak.
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