READING, Pa. — Students from across Berks County gathered for the first-ever United Way Read Alliance Youth Summit, an event focused on leadership development, communication skills, mentorship, and empowering young people to imagine their future.
The Summit, organized through United Way of Berks County and Read Alliance, created space for students to connect directly with community leaders, ask questions about career pathways, and build confidence through conversations centered on growth, perseverance, and leadership.
Among the professionals participating was Emmy Award-winning journalist José Martínez, a bilingual television journalist, storyteller, author, and founder known for community-focused reporting and advocacy through storytelling.
Martínez spent time with students discussing television journalism, communication, leadership, and the importance of using personal experiences and authentic voices to create impact.
“Leadership is not about perfection,” Martínez shared during conversations with students. “It is about growth, perseverance, showing up for others, and continuing forward even when the path is uncertain.”
The event encouraged students to think beyond future careers and reflect on leadership in everyday life — as classmates, teammates, family members, and future community leaders.
Organizers said one of the goals of the Youth Summit was ensuring students left feeling inspired about their future while recognizing the impact they are already making today.
Throughout the day, students engaged in conversations around communication, leadership development, future goals, and community involvement.
For Martínez, some of the most meaningful moments happened during small group conversations.
“Some of the best learning happens around a table,” Martínez said. “Students asked thoughtful questions, shared ideas openly, and reminded everyone in the room that leadership often begins by simply finding your voice.”
As an Emmy Award-winning journalist who has spent years telling stories across communities and cultures, Martínez said events like the Read Alliance Youth Summit serve as an important reminder that young people already possess the ability to shape their future.
“The future is already taking shape,” Martínez said. “These young people are helping build it.”
United Way of Berks County and Read Alliance say they hope to continue creating opportunities that empower young people and encourage leadership development throughout Berks County.
For students who attended the first-ever Youth Summit, organizers hope the experience becomes more than a single event — but rather the beginning of long-term confidence, growth, and possibility.
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