On Friday, August 1st, Concilio hosted its Summer Camp Youth Symposium, the culminating event of its five-week summer program for youth.
Held at Concilio’s headquarters in North Philadelphia, the symposium brought together students ages 12 to 17, Concilio staff, and community funders to celebrate the theme of the day: “Connect to Your Dreams.”
The camp, held at Antonia Pantoja Charter School and Harding Middle School, welcomed students from across the city. Throughout the five weeks, participants explored career pathways and personal development through three focused tracks: business, health, and digital media. The symposium served as a showcase for their hard work, growth, and creativity.
Middle school digital media students shared original storyboards that were transformed into social media content. Health students from Pantoja’s middle school cohort presented thoughtful visualizations of wellness, while middle school business students from Pantoja pitched ideas that blended entrepreneurship with problem-solving. High school business participants from Pantoja tackled the concepts of innovation and consequence in their final presentation, “Showing Off.”
Middle school digital media students from Pantoja introduced their creative writing project “Our Life as a Movie,” bringing mythological characters into real-world scripts. The high school health cohort led insightful presentations on psychological disorders and first-aid topics like burn safety. The high school digital media group capped it off with a trailer screening of their original short film—a bold, student-led story that blended elements of zombie fiction and renewable energy solutions.
The “Connect to Your Dreams” theme echoed throughout the day, encouraging students to see their futures not as distant possibilities, but as goals already within reach. That message was driven home by Dr. Debora Carrera, Chief Educational Officer for the City of Philadelphia, who delivered the keynote address. She reminded students that “education is key” and affirmed that no dream is too big when paired with commitment, curiosity, and support.
“We want our students to leave here knowing that their voices, ideas, and futures matter,” said Marie Ranselle, Interim Director for Concilio’s Community Based Services. “This program is about helping them connect the dots between where they are now and where they want to go.”
Adonis Banegas, Concilio Chief Executive Officer added, “When you give young people real-world tools and a space to explore their passions, you see confidence take root. That’s the most powerful part of this work.”
The symposium was proudly sponsored by TD Bank, with additional support from Santander Bank and JEVS Human Services, both of whom also funded the summer program. The Philadelphia Water Department added a creative and educational touch through its interactive Water Bar. Their collective presence offered students the chance to engage with professionals and community resources in a meaningful way.
Guests and students enjoyed lunch from Freddy & Tony’s, along with water ice and soft pretzels. Before leaving, each student received a backpack filled with school supplies—a gift to carry them into the upcoming school year prepared and proud.
Concilio’s 2025 Summer Camp Youth Symposium was more than a closing event—it was a celebration of potential. As these young leaders continue to grow, one thing is certain: they’re not just dreaming about the future—they’re building it.
