Unmuted: Youth Leaders Against Gun Violence Symposium at NCCU

a powerful, youth-led symposium where GRACED, Inc. teens and NCCU students take the lead in addressing one of our community’s most urgent challenges. This event creates a brave and inspiring space for youth to share their lived experiences, elevate their voicesand engage directly with community leaders and policymakers.

Through meaningful conversations, live panels and the official launch of our teen-built, teen-led podcast #GRACEDfullyUnmuted, attendees will hear real stories, explore solutions and be part of a collective call to action. Whether you come to listen, learn or lend your voice, Unmuted invites you to stand alongside our future leaders as they lead the movement toward safer, stronger communities.

Info: This panel explores how access to meaningful opportunities can help prevent violence before it starts. Community leaders, educators, and youth voices will discuss how workforce pathways, education, and positive exposure create safer, more hopeful futures. Together, we’ll highlight real solutions that empower young people, open doors, and shift the trajectory toward success.

This panel will be led by Ms. Eniya Henderson, a Junior at North Carolina Central University, majoring in Social Work and with a Minor in Political Science.

Info: This panel explores gun violence in Durham through a public health lens, focusing on its impact on individuals, families and the broader community. Panelists will discuss root causes, mental health effects and community-driven solutions to reduce violence and promote healing. Together, we’ll highlight strategies that support prevention, safety, and long-term change.

This panel will be led by Ms. Rabi’ah Al-Amin, a senior Psychology major at North Carolina Central University and native of Durham, NC.

Info: This panel explores the often unseen mental and emotional toll that community violence has on youth, families, and neighborhoods. Panelists will discuss how exposure to violence affects stress, trauma, and overall well-being, while also highlighting ways to support healing and resilience. Together, we’ll center the importance of mental health in creating safer, stronger communities.

This panel will be led by Ms. Courtney Pope, a senior Psychology major at North Carolina Central University and a distinguished Nixon-Thorpe member.

Info: This panel highlights the power of youth voice in driving change across our community. Through the #GRACEDfullyUnmuted movement, young leaders are using media, storytelling, and honest conversation to speak out on issues that matter most—especially gun violence, mental health, and opportunity. This session will uplift youth perspectives and showcase how they are leading the charge toward solutions.

This panel will be led by Mr. Amer Young, a senior Psychology major at North Carolina Central University.

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