By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE 2nd Annual Youth Conference, hosted by the Division of Youth Services on Monday, encouraged students to speak openly, support one another, and develop a stronger will to make safe and healthy choices.
Held at the Kagman Community Center Auditorium on March 23, 2026, the conference gave 50 youth participants, aged 13 to 17, from various middle and high schools an opportunity to learn about topics including teen dating violence, healthy relationships, peer pressure, mental health awareness, bullying, sexual abuse prevention, and available community resources.
Through interactive activities, group discussions, and youth-led presentations, participants were encouraged to speak openly, support one another, and make safe and healthy choices.
DYS Administrator Vivian T. Sablan said continuing youth-focused events like this “is an important part of prevention work in the community.”
“This is the second year we are holding the youth conference on Saipan, and we continue to see how meaningful it is when youth are given the opportunity to lead and educate one another. These discussions help our youth better understand healthy relationships, recognize warning signs, and know where to go for help. Events like this also promote youth empowerment by giving them the confidence to use their voices, support their peers, and become positive leaders in their schools and communities,” she said.
The conference was part of DYS prevention and outreach efforts to provide youth with a safe and supportive space to discuss issues affecting them while building leadership skills, confidence, and positive peer connections. It was facilitated by DYS youth ambassadors, who led program planning, discussions, and activities throughout the day.
Child Protective Services Supervisor Mariah Manglona said youth involvement plays a key role in prevention efforts.
“Our youth ambassadors did an excellent job leading this conference. When youth talk to youth, the message is stronger and more relatable. Teaching our youth about teen dating violence, respect, and making positive decisions helps build a safer CNMI for everyone,” she said.
DYS, she added, will continue to support youth-led programs and prevention activities throughout the year as part of its commitment to protecting children, strengthening families, and empowering youth across the Commonwealth.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
