Timberland High School Youth and Government Shines at National Conferences

August 30, 2024

A group of six Timberland High School (THS) students – Will Bastean, Sabrina Longwell, Sabrene Lutfiyya, Skai Peterkin, Daniel (Danny) Wilson and Jade Wilson – were selected to represent Missouri at the prestigious YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs (CONA) in North Carolina, June 28-July 4. This annual conference brings together youth delegates from across the country to engage in lively debates on current issues and develop leadership skills.

The Timberland members of the Missouri Delegation pose in front of Eureka Hall at the CONA conference.
Left to Right: Sabrene Lutfiyya, Sabrina Longwell, Danny Wilson, Will Bastean, Skai Peterkin and Jade Wilson.

THS Youth and Government (YAG) delegates played key leadership roles at CONA. Will Bastean served as the Conference Life Committee Chair, helping oversee the overall operations and decision-making processes of the conference. Skai Peterkin, a second-year delegate, was selected as a Roundtable Chair, leading debriefing sessions for the Missouri delegation.

“I’m so proud of all that my YAG students have accomplished. Making it to the mountain (CONA is held in the Smoky Mountains), and then thriving, while expressing their beliefs and advocating for change is so very inspiring,” said Ida Hoffmann, THS journalism teacher and YAG sponsor.

Will Bastean and Cole Bastean also distinguished themselves by being chosen as the Missouri representatives for the YMCA Changemakers Summit. This national initiative offers students the opportunity to propose innovative solutions to community challenges. The brothers impressed the selection committee with their proposal to improve elementary students' reading abilities.

As national finalists, Will and Cole were invited to present their project at the Changemakers Summit in Washington, D.C., June 12-14. The summit featured 80 student delegates from across the country, competing for a top three spot and a $5,000 award to implement their project.

Will and Cole Bastean posted in suits, in front large statue and staircase.
Left to Right: Will Bastean & Cole Bastean

The THS YAG delegation's accomplishments at YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs and Changemakers Summit showcase their exceptional talent, dedication, and leadership potential.

Youth and Government is sponsored by teacher Ida Hoffmann at Timberland; teacher Frank Matteoni at North Point. Contact your school’s sponsor for more information.