BSDLC 2025 STUDENT WORKSHOPS
Student Attendees should select the top four workshops of their interest for registration. While we cannot guarantee all attendees will receive their first choice, we want to ensure attendees participate in three sessions they are interested in.
1. Real Vs Performative: Serving as a Champion for Community
This workshop explores what it means to be a community change agent through our daily life - to practice in authentic activism and community engagement - online, in school, and in the community. Participants will look at examples of historical and modern social impact movements to better understand the difference between symbolic gestures and sustained community action. Through open dialogue, we will reflect on how to stay rooted in our values, navigate difficult spaces, and contribute to change that lasts. Participants will leave with strategies to lead with courage, accountability, and purpose.
2. Civic Literacy 101: Understanding How Government and Media Shape Our World
What does it mean to be civically engaged today? This workshop provides an introduction to civic literacy and why informed participation matters. Participants will explore identifying media bias to communicating across differing viewpoints. The focus of this workshop is on developing critical thinking, respectful communication, and lawful civic engagement, key components of leadership in today’s civic environment
3. Beyond the Screen: Addressing Online Stereotypes and Building Real Connection
In an age of memes, trends, and viral content, how do we recognize when humor becomes harmful? This workshop explores how online spaces shape perception, identity, and belonging. Together, we will unpack stereotypes and discuss how digital culture can both reflect and reinforce bias. Through reflection and collaboration, participants will learn how to challenge exclusionary content, build empathy, and create online and offline spaces rooted in respect and connection.
4. More Than Labels: Understanding Identities and Authentic Allyship
We are all more than a single story or the labels others assign to us. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore the many dimensions of identity and how they shape our lived experiences. Through guided reflection and small-group activities, participants will learn how understanding identity can strengthen empathy, teamwork, and inclusive leadership. The goal is to build authentic connection, community awareness, solidarity, and mutual respect - the foundations of equitable communities.
5. Reel Inequality: Exploring Class and Culture Through Film and Media
Films and media shape how we view the world and can provide opportunities to access multiple perspectives as long as all the stories are being told. Stories told through film and media influence how we understand social and economic realities. In this workshop, we’ll critically analyze how media represents different communities and discuss how those portrayals shape public understanding. Participants will explore how stories on screen shape awareness and understanding across communities. Together, we will imagine how storytelling can fuel empathy, connection, and change.
6. Unpacking the Suitcase: From Arrival to Belonging
Through storytelling and creative reflection, this workshop explores the experiences of new Americans and diverse families as they adapt to new communities. Participants will consider themes of identity, adjustment, and connection while celebrating shared humanity. Interactive activities promote understanding across cultures and emphasize how inclusivity and kindness help everyone feel at home.
7. Rise and Recharge: The Role of Wellness in Leadership
Rest is a powerful act of renewal and care. This workshop explores how caring for ourselves and one another strengthens our capacity to lead and build community. Participants will engage in reflection and shared practices that support mental, emotional, and collective well-being. Together, we will consider what it means to rest with intention, care with compassion, and rise renewed for the work ahead.
8. Rewriting the Silence: When We Stop Reading, Who Gets Erased?
What happens when voices are left out of our libraries, classrooms, and communities? This workshop will explore the importance of reading diverse perspectives and how exploring multiple perspectives can encourage civic awareness and expand our worldview. Through reading, dialogue, and creative activities, participants will consider how storytelling fosters empathy, expands identity, and inspires imagination. Together ,we will reclaim the power of literature as a tool for understanding, creativity, and connection.
9. Media Literacy and Culture: The Power and Responsibility of Digital Influence
From TikTok trends to viral hashtags, social media shapes how we see ourselves and each other. This workshop examines how online trends can sometimes perpetuate stereotypes and how we can respond with awareness and respect. Participants will explore how to create content that honors culture and promotes respect in the digital world while developing critical awareness of media influence. Together, we will discuss how young people can challenge harmful narratives and lead with creativity, integrity, and respect.
10. Exploring Identities: Queer Joy, Belonging, and the Right to Be Whole
This workshop provides an educational space to explore LGBTQ+ identities through the lenses of resilience and joy. Together we will unpack common misconceptions, celebrate self-expression, and build understanding across communities. Through activities and reflection, participants will cultivate empathy and appreciation for the courage it takes to live authentically, reminding us that belonging is a shared responsibility.
11. Representing Our Experiences: Black Identity, History, and Education
What does it mean to be a Black student in institutions shaped by inequitable histories? This session will discuss the importance of understanding African American history and the ongoing contributions of Black leaders in education and society. Through guided discussion, we’ll connect historical insight to present-day experiences and imagine new possibilities for belonging and empowerment in learning spaces. This workshop celebrates truth, joy, and a legacy of achievement.
12. “Did You Need to Say That?”: Understanding Words, Impact, and Responsibility
Words have power to harm or to heal. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore how language shapes everyday interactions, community climate, and self-expression. We will discuss examples of harmful speech, bias, and accountability while also practicing communication that builds trust and understanding. The session encourages reflection on freedom of expression and the responsibility that comes with it, inviting participants to use their voices for awareness, connection, and change.
*BSDLC workshops are designed by and for students as educational spaces that encourage reflection, dialogue, and community learning. Topics are presented through an age-appropriate, nonpartisan, and inclusive lens to support empathy, understanding, and shared growth.
WHAT WILL CHAPERONES BE DOING?
BSDLC isn’t just for students; adult participants will also engage in a parallel learning experience with a tailored curriculum designed for educators and chaperones.
This space will explore how adults can best support youth leadership and belonging in their schools and communities.
MORE QUESTIONS?
If you have questions about BSDLC 2025, or would like to inquire about one of our student registration scholarships please reach out to conference organizers at aimssdlc@gmail.com.
JOIN US
Join us at BSDLC to engage in meaningful discussions and activities aimed at fostering leadership among students and educators. Take part in this transformative experience and be a part of the change!