Dear Parent/Guardian/Student,
We’re excited to introduce the Youth Leadership Program, a dynamic comprehensive initiative by ABBC in partnership with Ne Taba International (NTI) designed to empower young leaders ages 15 and up!
This 8-week summer program (July 7 – August 29) offers:
- Hands-on leadership training with NTI
- Work experience with children in after-school & summer camp programs
- Personalized mentorship & professional development coaching
- Community service hours eligible for the President’s Volunteer Service Award
- A discount toward Taekwondo Training for Non-ABBC Members
- College scholarship opportunities upon completion
Flexible Scheduling: We understand summer can be a busy time for families — participants can create a schedule that works for them within the 8-week timeframe.
Spots are limited! Apply by April 25, 2025, to secure your place.
Program Orientation: June 2025 (TBD)
Location: 3750 Monroe Ave, Suite #1000, Pittsford, NY 14534
The skills, confidence, and connections gained through this program will help participants excel in leadership roles both now and in the future.
Please view the attached flyer for more details or reach out to mrsra.abbc@gmail.com with any questions.
We’d love to have you or your young leader take part in this exciting opportunity!
Best,
Joanna Ra
Agape Black Belt Program Director
mrsra.abbc@gmail.com
AGAPE Black Belt Center Leadetship Experience
Working as a camp counselor at AGAPE Black Belt Center was an incredibly rewarding experience that pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. Through this role, I learned how to be resourceful and think on my feet, especially when guiding campers through activities and ensuring they remained engaged. It also taught me the importance of patience and adaptability when working with children, helping me develop the skills needed to lead a group effectively.
Some of my most memorable moments included playing dodgeball with the campers, where I saw firsthand how teamwork and encouragement can create a fun and energetic environment. I also had the opportunity to tutor kids in Arabic, which was a meaningful experience as I helped them connect with their language and culture.
This experience truly shaped my leadership skills by making me more confident in my ability to manage a group, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive atmosphere. Whether leading games, organizing activities, or mentoring campers, I gained invaluable skills that will serve me in my future career working with children. AGAPE Black Belt Center provided me with a space to grow as a leader, and I’m grateful for the lessons I learned along the way.
Best,
Sarah Aljitawi
(University of Rochester / Health & Behavior , Society & Nursing Major)
I loved interacting with the kids through activities and board games. They were able to have fun and learn how to strategize and see that what they do can influence their future choices, which can also be applied in life. Many campers and camp counselors can agree that not only is this such a positive environment, but a place where people want to come back to. It is very rewarding to give back and help the youth but learning patience, planning, and how to lead others, are skills that I will hold to forever.
Parker Oyama
(California State Polytechnic University, Pomona / Mechanical Engineering)
My name is Luke Ra, also known as Master Luke at Agape Black Belt Center! This is my personal testimony of being a Camp Leader.
Personal Growth and Key Takeaways:
ABBC significantly accelerated my leadership development. I learned that effective leadership isn’t about rigid command, but about fostering collaboration and building trust. The program provided invaluable opportunities to practice and refine my communication skills with campers and adults alike. I discovered the importance of clear, concise instructions, active listening, and tailoring my message to different audiences. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of camp life demanded constant adaptability and versatility. I learned to think on my feet, adjust plans quickly, and navigate unexpected challenges with composure. These experiences solidified my understanding that true leadership requires not only a strong vision but also the ability to pivot and respond effectively to changing circumstances.
Memorable Moments Working with Campers:
The field trips we took together were highlights of the camps! I’ll never forget the excitement and genuine joy the campers had. Seeing them collaborate on the interactive exhibits, explaining concepts to each other, was incredibly rewarding. Those shared experiences outside of the traditional camp setting really allowed us to connect on a deeper level and see how what was discussion and emphasized about good character from the traditions of Korean and Taekwondo culture—applied in the world.
How the Program Shaped My Leadership Skills:
ABBC’s mission of providing a family-oriented, quality program was instrumental in shaping my leadership approach. Being immersed in an environment that prioritized respect, support, and community taught me the power of leading with empathy and fostering a sense of belonging. The team’s collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence inspired me to strive for the highest standards in everything I did. Witnessing firsthand how a dedicated team could create such a positive and impactful experience motivated me to embrace a leadership style centered on mentorship and empowerment. I learned to lead by example, encouraging campers to embrace challenges and celebrate their successes. The consistent emphasis on quality, both in instruction and interaction, pushed me to refine my communication and organizational skills, ensuring every camper received the best possible experience. This experience truly allowed me to make the most of my leadership potential and opportunities.
Being a camp leader at ABBC was a journey of self-discovery and a chance to make a real difference in the lives of young campers. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering this opportunity to take the leap. You won’t just be shaping the future of campers; you’ll be shaping your own.
Luke Ra
(Fashion Institute of Technology / Advertising & Marketing Communication)
Youth Leadership Program Application
Registration will be open on April 1st, 2025.