Full-day summit engages 220 students in youth-led mental health advocacy
Washington, D.C. — Active Minds, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing youth and young adults to transform mental health norms, hosted its second Amplify Regional Summit on Saturday, January 24, at the University of South Florida. Held in partnership with Durant High School, USF Upward Bound, and USF College Reach-Out Program (CROP), the Summit brought together 220 high school students for a full day of connection, learning, and action around mental health advocacy.
Students in grades 9–12 — the majority of whom identified as BIPOC — participated in interactive sessions focused on identity, well-being, and the power of youth leadership. Throughout the day, students engaged in large-group experiences and small-group discussions designed to equip them with practical tools to support mental health in their schools and communities.
The Summit emphasized culturally responsive conversations, peer connection, and real-world action. Students explored how social influences, digital spaces, and community environments shape mental health, while identifying tangible ways to advocate for change locally.
“The energy in Tampa was powerful from start to finish,” said Tyrrell Jefferies, Senior Director of Youth Leadership at Active Minds. “When we create spaces where young people can connect mental health to their identities and communities, they rise to the moment. This is what it looks like to champion a new era of mental health — one that is youth-led, culturally responsive, and rooted in action.”
Durant High School, home to an Active Minds Chapter, joined USF Upward Bound and USF CROP in supporting student participation. The partnership created a meaningful opportunity for students to experience a college campus environment while deepening their leadership skills.
The Tampa Regional Summit builds on Active Minds’ growing Amplify Summit initiative, which engages high school students across the country in youth-led mental health advocacy. Insights from the event will continue to inform future Summits as Active Minds expands opportunities for students to connect with the broader movement beyond a single-day experience.
High-resolution videos of the Tampa Amplify Summit for editorial use are available here.
