Youth in the Pensacola community will hear a message of inspiration Aug. 13 during the 9th Annual Youth Leadership Conference. The evening’s guest speaker, Verdell Hawkins, said he plans to challenge attendees to do their best in life.
“I would like youth to aspire to be their best selves,” Hawkins said. “I would like them to make good choices that will enable them to achieve greatness.”

Hawkins, who serves as Gulf Power’s community relations manager will be speaking on the theme “Tomorrow Leaders, Preparing Today.” The conference and banquet, which cost $15, begins at 6 p.m., Saturday at the Englewood All-In-One Restaurant, 1100 W. Scott St.
Past speakers at the annual event have included Walter Gulley, head of the social studies department at Booker T. Washington High School, and Bentina Terry, a Gulf Power VP. The event is presented by Mother Wit Institute, Inc.