POLLYANNA TEEN COUNCIL

Mission

Pollyanna Teen Council connects students with an interest in helping their school Build Stronger and Kinder Communities, and empowers them to make change in whatever ways are possible.

About Pollyanna Teen Council

 

The Pollyanna Teen Council brings together thoughtful, curious, and engaged young people ages 13–18 from across the country who care deeply about the kind of communities they want to help create.

Each month, teens gather on Zoom for meaningful conversations with inspiring guest speakers, followed by student-centered dialogue about leadership, identity, belonging, and the real issues shaping school and community life today. Together, participants have the opportunity to learn from others, share their perspectives, and explore how they can make a difference in their own schools and beyond.

Led by teen voices and supported by Pollyanna’s dedicated adult team, the Teen Council is a space for connection, growth, reflection, and action.

We meet one Sunday each month from 3:00–4:00 PM ET / 12:00–1:00 PM PT.

Interested in joining a meetup this year? Fill out this short form and add your voice to the conversation.

2026 – 2027 Topics and Special Guests

10/18/2026: Samantha Hosein

We’ll explore: Artificial intelligence, ethics, critical thinking, and the future of technology

Samantha Hosein

11/15/2026: Rev. Natosha Reid Rice

We’ll explore: Service, leadership, community impact, and social change

Natosha Reid Rice

1/10/2027: Atia Abawi

We’ll explore: Journalism, storytelling, media literacy, and global issues

Atia Abawi

2/10/2027: Noah Arhm Choi

We’ll expolore: Identity, representation, authenticity, and belonging

Noah Arhm Choi

3/14/2027: Megan Saxelby

Well explore: Dignity, relationships, communication, mental wellness, and connection

4/13/2027: In person at our National Conference

Join us in Charlotte, NC for our first in-person Teen Council meeting!

Pollyanna National Conference 2027

5/16/2027: Dr. Simran Jeet Singh

We’ll explore: Identity, belonging, empathy, and community

Simran Jeet Singh

Our prior Topics and Special Guests

2025 - 2026 Season

10/19/25 – Your Voice, Your Power with Sadiqa Reynolds

11/16/25 The Science & Soul of Connection with Megan Saxelby

12/14/25 – Speak Up with National Coalition of Censorship Student Advocates

2/8/26 – Exploring Identity with Anthony Witte 

3/8/26 – Stayring Sharp, Staying Kind with Noah Arhm Choi

4/19/26 – AI and teh Future of Inclusion with Sam Hosein

5/17/26 – College Unplugged with Aaron Ray and Teen Council Alums

2024 - 2025 Season

10/20/24 – Being Heard and Not Hurt with Jason Craige Harris

11/17/24 Coming Out Again and Again with Frank Patti

12/8/24 – Metaracism with Professor Tricia Rose

1/26/25 – Inequalities in Education 

2/23/25 – How Do You Discern Real News?

4/27/25 – Leading a School with Saya McKenna

5/18/25 – How Powerful is the Teen Voice with Dré Finley

To learn more about Pollyanna...