The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Community Justice Unit held its annual “What’s It All About? Youth Conference” on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) in Newark.
The conference was open to middle school students in grades 7 through 9 from across Essex County. This year, approximately 400 students from schools in Newark, Irvington, East Orange, and Orange participated in the full day event.
The program featured a keynote address by motivational speaker Hashim Garrett, along with interactive breakout sessions led by experts and community leaders. Topics focused on making positive life choices, preventing gun violence, substance abuse awareness, and cyber safety.
“This event is more than a conference–this is a proactive investment in our youth. By promoting prevention, awareness, positive decision-making, and access to critical resources, we are helping build strong and safe communities”, said Nicole Graves-Watson, ECPO community relations specialist and event organizer.
Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II added, “At a time when far too many young people are not only the perpetrators, but the victims of violence, our goal is to reach them early with meaningful, positive guidance that empowers them to make the right choices. This is how we invest in the long-term safety and strength of our communities.”
The annual youth conference is part of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office ongoing commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment through education, prevention, and mentorship initiatives.
