PBSC and EJS Project partner to empower youth at Teen Career Conference

The Emanuel Jackson Sr. (EJS) Project hosted a Teen Career Conference at Palm Beach State College on May 10. The event brought together youth, mentors, families and community leaders for a day of encouragement, growth and connection. With an atmosphere of hope and purpose, the EJS Project, which provides resources to youth throughout Palm Beach County, continued its mission to shape the next generation through positive guidance and support.

PBSC’s Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department hosted the event, which drew 134 attendees, including 59 professionals from various industry sectors. These professionals participated as panelists, workshop leaders, mock interviewers, staff and volunteers. A total of 74 students from across South Florida attended the event.

Highlights of the day included networking opportunities, guest speakers, panel discussions and professional LinkedIn headshots. Breakout sessions gave students the chance to learn, collaborate and explore key topics such as creating safe and engaging spaces through team building and mentorship; workforce readiness with resume writing tips, interview skills and financial literacy; and academic development through tutoring, test prep and college planning. Students also explored civic leadership through youth-led advocacy, neighborhood projects and community engagement.

“The Teen Career Conference was truly an inspiring day. Our students came ready to learn, network, and take meaningful steps toward their future careers. From the energy in the room to the level of engagement and preparation, it was clear they understood the assignment,” said Aarif Khan, senior program manager at the EJS Project.

“Our goal was to create a space that felt like a real conference, one that challenged students to show up as professionals, and we accomplished that. This event was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we invest in youth and give them the tools to succeed.” 

The EJS Project continues to serve as a beacon in the community, offering students consistent mentorship that fosters leadership, responsibility and resilience. The conference was also an opportunity for students to learn more about the College’s offerings.

Deborah Gordon, PBSC director of corporate and continuing education, hopes to continue the partnership for future youth-related projects and initiatives.

As the EJS program looks to the future, its message is clear: the seeds planted today will yield leaders for tomorrow.

To see more photos of the event, click visit the EJS Teen Career Conference Gallery.