Chicago Youth Revival: A Boy and His Dream Leads Inspiring Event at Mollison Elementary in Bronzeville

In response to increasing frustration over teen takeovers, some Chicago residents took proactive measures this past Saturday.

Behind Mollison Elementary in Bronzeville, the field buzzed with athletic activities and inspiring messages. Personal trainers and motivational speakers generously donated their time to connect with and uplift youth during the Restore the Youth Field Takeover event.

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“You are lovable. You are capable of being loved. You are capable of doing something positive, so any negative behavior that you have cultivated because of the hardship you’ve had all your life, change that around,” Sunny Akhigbe encouraged the crowd.

Akhigbe, the visionary behind the nonprofit organization A Boy and His Dream, has spearheaded youth initiatives in both Chicago and Nigeria. He introduced the concept of a Field Takeover as a constructive alternative to the large teen gatherings that have recently become notorious for spiraling out of control.

Earlier in the week, authorities detained several teenagers at 57th Street Beach, underscoring the need for positive community interventions.

“Children need to understand that positivity will help them the most,” Akhigbe said.

Among the participants were some young people and parents who appreciated having a safe, positive event on a Saturday.

“Gun violence happens and all this stuff with all these teens, so it’s hard to have fun with my friends and avoid that,” said 13-year-old Hunter Adkins.

“We need to change the focus on organizations that are providing opportunities for young people. They exist everywhere. It’s getting the word out,” said parent Tanya Uyigue.

“It’s very disheartening, what’s going on with our youth today, and if I had it my way, what we need is more community activities for our youth to be involved in,” said youth program coordinator Rita Beasley-Lawson.

Akhigbe had hoped more teens would have participated on Saturday, but he’s not giving up.

“We are just getting started because we are tired of children taking over the street in a negative way. So, we help them flip that. So, the next one, you better be out,” Akhigbe said.

Organizers of Saturday’s event say they will do more of these events. They aim to get the attention of teens to help them make the most of their lives now and in the future.