A Norman Perspective

One week ago, on November 1st, the community came together at Neighborhood Health’s Oxford Community Room for an unforgettable afternoon of mentorship, leadership, and growth. Youth and parents shared in powerful moments of truth, laughter, and reflection — a day filled with energy, honesty, and hope.

From inspiring speakers to heartfelt conversations between parents and teens, Flash Talks reminded us that leadership begins with self-awareness and courage. One teen captured their new perspective:

“Explore more paths before you are forced down a path.”

The day was a celebration of voice, purpose, and the power of connection — proving once again that when youth are heard, they lead with confidence and heart. 💪🏽

📸 Stay tuned for more photos, quotes, and stories from this year’s Flash Talks!

Thank you Angie Zaegel Hannon for allowing us to use this beautiful space at Neighborhood Health Oxford for the youth in our community!

💫 Community Spotlight: Our Amazing Sponsors & Partners 💫

FlashTalks wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and community partners who believe in empowering youth and families right here in Fort Wayne. 🌟

These organizations truly support the next generation of leaders, helping us create a space where both youth and parents can grow, connect, and be inspired. Every contribution helps make this day one to remember, and none of it goes unnoticed. 💙

Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in our community’s future! 🙌

Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

FlashTalks is built to create meaningful conversations and connections for both youth and parents:

🎧 Youth Sessions
• Micro-learning workshops led by local mentors
• Collaborative discussions that spark new ideas
• Fun, engaging activities with music, dancing, and a live DJ
• Lunch provided + raffle prizes and giveaways

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Sessions
• Real conversations with experts and community leaders
• Resources to support how best to communicate with your child in the digital world
• Opportunities to connect with other parents on the same journey

💫 Community Spotlight: Our Amazing Sponsors & Partners 💫
FlashTalks wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and community partners who believe in empowering youth and families right here in Fort Wayne. 🌟

These organizations truly support the next generation of leaders, helping us create a space where both youth and parents can grow, connect, and be inspired. Every contribution helps make this day one to remember, and none of it goes unnoticed. 💙

Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in our community’s future! 🙌

Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

FlashTalks is built to create meaningful conversations and connections for both youth and parents:

🎧 Youth Sessions
• Micro-learning workshops led by local mentors
• Collaborative discussions that spark new ideas
• Fun, engaging activities with music, dancing, and a live DJ
• Lunch provided + raffle prizes and giveaways

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Sessions
• Real conversations with experts and community leaders
• Resources to support how best to communicate with your child in the digital world
• Opportunities to connect with other parents on the same journey

Denita Washington, Founder and CEO of Girlz Rock, is a powerhouse leader who has dedicated her career to empowering young women. She also serves as Adams Township Trustee and Manager of Community and Family Engagement at Fort Wayne Community Schools. With advanced degrees in education and leadership, Denita’s influence extends across classrooms, boardrooms, and community programs.

❤️ “Lead with Love.”

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

Adam Blakey wears many hats as a School Social Worker, entrepreneur, and founder of the Adam Blakey Holiday Foundation. For over 20 years, Adam has connected youth and families to resources while building businesses that uplift the community. His life’s work is centered on service, resilience, and building stronger pathways for the next generation.

💪 “Stand tall, stay true, and build the man you want to be.”

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

As Senior Program Manager with TeenWorks, MaKayla Gusching launched the Fort Wayne Summer Program to inspire and equip youth for success. With more than 20 years in the nonprofit sector, she brings expertise in youth development, trauma-informed care, and program leadership. When she is not working, MaKayla finds peace outdoors kayaking and hiking.

🌱 “There is beauty in overcoming challenges.”

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

We are honored to welcome Arnetta Scruggs, Executive Director and Founder of The Bloom Project, Inc. Arnetta has dedicated her life to empowering youth and families through mentorship, leadership, and community service. With her background in social work and her passion for uplifting young men, Arnetta continues to build futures filled with hope and opportunity.

📖 “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

Bloom Project, Inc.
Arnetta Scruggs

Meet Jeff Roberts, husband, father, coach, teacher, and the heart behind Pave the Path Youth Leadership Program. As a Community Coach at Amp Lab at Electric Works, Jeff equips young adults with the tools to lead with humility, hunger, and wisdom. Named FWCS Teacher of the Year and a 2023 Champion of Change, Jeff is living proof of what commitment to community looks like.

💡 “Leaders are humble, hungry and smart.”

✨ Join us November 1st for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

As CEO of Building A Stronger Family Inc., Jonathon Wattley transformed personal tragedy into a mission of hope. Jonathon has committed his life to helping families navigate life’s hardest storms. With decades of leadership as a husband, father, elder, and community builder, Jonathon inspires others to live fully and love deeply.

🌍 “When I see others, I see myself.”

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

Fort Wayne native Mario White has turned his love for basketball into a mission of mentorship. A graduate of South Side High School, Mario now serves as the City Life Site Director and Head Coach for South Side’s Freshman Basketball Team. With years of coaching and mentoring experience, he continues to inspire youth to chase success both on and off the court.

🏀 “Don’t be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed.” – LeBron James

✨ Join us for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com

From the court to the classroom, Katie Jackson brings passion and purpose everywhere she goes. A proud North Side High School alum, college athlete, and Hall of Fame inductee, Katie now serves as Assistant Principal and Head Girls Basketball Coach at Northrop High School. With over 26 years of coaching experience and as a proud mom of four, she lives by her own motto:

🔥 “It’s a GREAT day to be GREAT!!”

✨ Join us November 1st for an empowering day designed to inspire, educate, and connect our community! Sign up today!
🎟 Get tickets here: https://flashtalks.givesmart.com