On Friday, December 1, 2006, Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham addressed Brooklyn teens at “Battling Self-Esteem. High or Low, Where Do You Fit In?” a forum hosted by Borough President Marty Markowitz’s Youth Council. The forum featured renowned motivational speaker and instructor Marquesa Pettway and drew over 50 Brooklyn teens to the Borough Hall Courtroom.

The Youth Council is composed of 15 Brooklyn teenagers aged 15-17, and aims to empower Brooklyn youth by involving them in educational, social, and recreational activities. The attendees were treated to an outline of Pettway’s celebrated “6 R’s Success Formula,” as well as reflections from Deputy Borough President Graham on her own path to success.

“I never dreamed that a poor girl from the countryside in Jamaica would be Deputy Borough President of the fourth largest city in America,” said Deputy Borough President Graham. “But, it is not where you are now, but where you want to be and your determination to get there that counts.”

The forums keynote address delivered by motivational speaker and instructor Marquesa Pettway echoed Deputy Borough President Graham’s message. "Young People you have a dream, it can happen; Visualize, Plan, Commit, Execute and Repeat,” said Pettway. “It was such a pleasure to motivate the youth of Brooklyn, you're the future but the decision is yours!! Take every opportunity to have a fulfilling life don't waste it. Remember your presentation to others is crucial to your success and your education is required.”
 
The Borough President’s Youth Council is currently recruiting members. Contact Andre White at 718-802-3761 for more info or a membership application.