Empowering Youth Through Leadership at Sewa National Youth Convention

Sewa National Youth Convention: A Focus on Empowering Youth Leadership

On July 26, 2025, Sewa International hosted its fifth National Youth Convention, an event dedicated to empowering young leaders through wellness and social engagement. The convention, organized by the LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) initiative, drew over 900 high school students and alumni from 43 different chapters. This virtual gathering was a testament to the dynamism and innovative spirit of youth leadership.

A Unique Platform for Youth

The convention lasted four hours and featured 14 engaging sessions, including breakout discussions and an inaugural alumni panel. The design and leadership of the event were entirely in the hands of youth, underscoring the message that leadership transcends age. Sridhar Talanki, a board member of Sewa International USA, expressed his pride in the attendees, stating, "This convention is exceptional because it is both organized by and for the young generation. Leadership is an inclusive journey."

Inspirational Voices

Among the notable speakers was Tori Franklin, an Olympic triple jumper and motivational figure, who shared her journey filled with ambition and resilience. Her insights resonated deeply with attendees as she articulated the importance of nurturing a connection with one's inner self amidst external pressures. Tori encouraged students to prioritize their mental and emotional health, saying, "Dreams take time. They unfold with trials and tribulations, but with self-care, one finds clarity and direction."

The event also highlighted the experiences of LEAD alumni who reflected on how the program shaped their paths and deepened their commitment to service. This shared wisdom provided current participants with a profound perspective on the potential impacts of their involvement.

Engaging Discussions and Keynote Address

The convention’s engaging format included 11 youth-led panels that tackled pressing issues such as emotional resilience, ethical innovation, and what it means to redefine success. Each panel, facilitated by youth moderators, allowed for interactive discussions with experts, providing attendees with practical insights into addressing modern challenges.

Concluding the event, keynote speaker Arjun Sen, a global leadership advisor, delivered a compelling message about the essence of true leadership. He emphasized the importance of empathy and courage, stating, "Genuine leadership starts from within, thriving as we serve others. Life will always present hurdles, but the strength to face them lies in grounded choices and self-awareness."

Commitment to Wellness

An important resolution emerged from the convention, as the overwhelming majority of delegates—97%—voted in favor of the "Wellness in Youth” initiative. This resolution commits Sewa International to incorporate mental health awareness, self-care practices, and community support into all future youth programming, echoing the collective emphasis on the importance of wellness in personal development.

About Sewa International

Sewa International is a nonprofit organization that operates under a 501(c)(3) status, engaged in disaster recovery, education, and community development efforts across the United States. With 43 chapters catering to diverse communities, Sewa International maintains a commitment to serving individuals irrespective of race, religion, gender, age, disability, or nationality. For more information, visit www.sewausa.org.

Through initiatives such as the National Youth Convention, Sewa International continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, fostering a culture of service and wellness that encourages young individuals to make impactful contributions to their communities and beyond.