Luvvie Ajayi Jones Gives Inspiring Talk to High School Scholars
Uniondale Union Free School District recently invited three-time New York Times Bestselling author, motivational speaker, podcast host and digital strategist Luvvie Ajayi Jones to Uniondale High School to give a book talk. Each scholar received a copy of her book Rising Troublemaker, an inspirational book for teens that teaches readers to face their fears and be the bravest and most authentic versions of themselves.
Speaking with a panel of three Uniondale High School scholars, Jones dove into Rising Troublemaker. Jones explained how she chose to write Rising Troublemaker to address what she wishes she had known as a teenager and young adult. One of the topics spoke about was the negotiation of money. Speaking to the audience and roleplaying with one of the scholars on the panel, Jones explained how to negotiate wages effectively. Jones also spoke to the power of uniqueness, describing how society has done everyone a disservice by leading people to believe that everyone should be alike when without individuality, there would be no room for innovation and growth.
"Luvvie Ajayi Jones gave an incredibly inspiring talk in which she spoke to the lessons she learned that helped her to become the person she is today," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil. "Luvvie spoke about the power of being different and how to make it your superpower, be proud without being arrogant, become an effective communicator and much more. We thank Luvvie for taking the time to teach these important life lessons to our scholars."
Another important topic of conversation brought on by a panelist was what it means to dream big. Jones explained that she is where she is today because she had the audacity to try. She challenged the audience to think bigger than they had ever dreamed and to draft their own vision statements to look back on ten years from now. She also explained how sharing your dreams is important because your friends and family can hold you accountable and help you along the way. Uniondale School District is proud to bring thought-provoking speaking engagements to the District to inspire scholars to follow their ambitions