Planned Parenthood Event For NJ Youth: Activism, Sexual Health

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — When Tia Ryans was young, she made it through an abusive childhood that made her “question her existence.” Since then, she’s managed to not only overcome, but to become a source of inspiration for others. And this is the sort of spirit that Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey (PPMNJ) hopes to channel at its next Teen Life Conference.

On Friday, June 11, the nonprofit will present its twice-annual conference virtually from 10 a.m. to noon, including a keynote speech from Ryans. Topics for the event include social justice and community activism, healthy nutrition, college preparedness and sexual health.

Students aged 15 to 22 can register online here.

According to organizers:

“Youth are at the forefront of countless progressive movements aimed at creating a better future for themselves and their communities. This year at Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan NJ's Teen Life Conference we are focusing on providing education, resources, and tools to empower high school students in becoming young activists. This half-day conference will provide teens with the opportunity to learn about what social and health justice issues are impacting them and how they can be a part of a positive change.”

Ryans, the executive director of Forcing Out Recidivism Through Education (FORTE) House in Newark, said her own past was a big reason why she wanted to participate in the event.

“I may have taken a few detours throughout my life's journey, but I remained resilient, determined, and grateful for the times that I was guided back on my path,” Ryans said. “Anytime I have a platform to speak with children who may have similar experiences, I think about the time in middle school when a woman told her story during a school assembly and a mustard seed of hope and confidence was planted.”

“I also remember the high school principal that took the time to not only listen, but also shared with me the necessary action steps needed for me to escape my trauma,” Ryans added.

“We are so excited to welcome all of our teens and our keynote, Ms. Ryans to this year's conference,” said Reginald Rosarion, senior director of education for PPMNJ.

“We are featuring workshops on social justice and community activism, healthy nutrition, college preparedness and sexual health, to name a few,” Rosarion said. “There is truly something for everyone.”

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey has health centers in Montclair, East Orange, Paterson and Newark.

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