Hollywood Popular Artists

Jul 1st 2013, 20:09, by MTV Act

By Corinne Henneberry

As Beyoncé says, "WHO RUN THE WORLD"… and this time the answer is young people! Yes it is true, our youth surely have an incredible impact on society, and a perfect example of that took place this past weekend with YMCA Global Teens, as they had an opportunity to connect with First Lady Michelle Obama while she visited Africa. 

This cross-continental conversation provided by our sister network MTV Base linked many students around the country to the First Lady in Johannesburg, South Africa. Students chatted with Michelle about the power youth have to effect change, and asked questions that focused on the importance of education and multi-cultural connections. Michelle's informative and inspiring conversation left the kids tuned in from New York, Houston, Los Angeles and Kansas City truly ready to make positive change in the world.

The First Lady emphasized the importance of investing energy into academic excellence and to continue to fill our minds with knowledge. She stated that with a "brain in your head and passion in your heart, you can be anything you dream of." With a confident smile, one of NYC's YMCA Global Teens, Suzanne Rosario, spoke about her upcoming trip to South Africa where she will join forces with local teens to create solutions to improve youth education. Her question to the First Lady was, "How has Nelson Mandela inspired you?"

Michelle is one of many of us who has been influenced by Mandela's strength and responded with that great MO wit, "If Nelson could hold tight to the vision of this country, then surely you can do your homework every night!"

The education of our youth is a key element in establishing a promising future for all of us, and Michelle encouraged the young people in attendance to read books, enjoy writing, and to never be afraid of learning.  "It is not a chore, it's for your future growth and opportunity, it's a gift," said Michelle.

Feeling inspired by Michelle and the YMCA's Global Teens? Check out the action links below to get involved with education and positive change!

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