Houston’s future leaders are not waiting for someone to hand them the keys to tomorrow—they are already building the door, programming the lock and preparing the business pitch.

The World Youth Foundation, Inc. will spotlight that youthful determination during a powerful two-day celebration of education, entrepreneurship, community service and achievement on Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2, 2026.

The weekend begins Saturday with the World Youth Foundation Back-to-School Jam from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center, 4410 Reed Road, Houston, Texas 77051. Students and families will be welcomed into a lively community environment featuring educational resources, school-readiness information, food, music, games, entertainment, giveaways and prizes.

It is part school-supply celebration, part community resource fair and completely focused on helping young Houstonians enter the 2026–2027 school year prepared, encouraged and confident.

Families will have opportunities to connect with community organizations and programs addressing education, health, workforce development and family support. For parents balancing growing school-supply lists with growing household expenses, the event represents more than a festive Saturday outing. It is a reminder that Houston’s community institutions are willing to stand beside families and help students cross the starting line ready to learn.

The celebration moves downtown on Sunday, August 2, for the Jewel McGowan Seeds of Gratitude Awards Celebration and World Youth Foundation Annual Fundraiser at the Cullen Theater inside the Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Avenue. The VIP reception begins at 2 p.m., followed by the main program at 3 p.m. The Wortham Theater Center has served as one of Houston’s premier cultural landmarks since opening in 1987, making it a fitting stage for honoring the city’s next generation of innovators.

 

This year’s theme, “GRIT • GROWTH • GREATNESS,” captures the journey of young people who have turned challenges into motivation and ideas into action.

Guests will see presentations, exhibits and demonstrations from students participating in the Youth Innovative Incubator Program, STEM Innovation Incubator Pathways, workforce-readiness programs and leadership-development initiatives. WYF’s programming combines emerging technology, STEAM education, literacy, entrepreneurship, civic engagement and career preparation to help young people develop practical skills beyond the traditional classroom.

One of the afternoon’s most anticipated attractions will be the Youth Market. Young entrepreneurs will display and sell original products, explain their marketing strategies and deliver business pitches to guests. In other words, do not be surprised if Sunday’s student vendor becomes Monday’s chief executive.

The Jewel McGowan Seeds of Gratitude Awards will also recognize six distinguished community leaders for excellence in education, workforce development and training, entrepreneurship, leadership, mentoring, creativity and innovation.

“Our purpose is simple yet profound—we work to remove barriers to success so every young person has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential,” said Karen Levingston-Franklin, chairman and CEO of the World Youth Foundation.

Founded in April 1991, WYF has spent more than 35 years creating pathways for youth and families. The organization reports serving more than 85,000 people through educational enrichment, mentoring, leadership training, workforce preparation and entrepreneurship programs. Its current initiatives serve young people ages 4 to 24 while expanding opportunities in artificial intelligence, STEAM, literacy and civic engagement.

The event is proudly led by Honorary Chair, The Honorable Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, and is presented Sponsors and partners supporting the weekend including the City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods, Houston Health Department, CenterPoint Energy Foundation, HoustonFirst, Levy GRB Houston, H-E-B, Frito-Lay, Oak Farms Dairy, McDonald's Houston, Harris County Department of Education: Case For Kids, TXPOST/OST CARES, PPG Global, LLC, The Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston, Inc. (IEACF), NUKSY'S, and Houston Style Magazine.

Houston Style Magazine is proud to serve as an Official Media Sponsor of the World Youth Foundation’s inspiring weekend of youth achievement, education, entrepreneurship, and community celebration. Through this partnership, Houston Style Magazine continues its longstanding commitment to spotlighting organizations that strengthen families, expand opportunities, and invest in the next generation of Houston leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

Student Registration: World Youth Foundation Back2School Jam 2026

EVENT DETAILS

World Youth Foundation Back-to-School Jam

Saturday, August 1, 2026
10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center
4410 Reed Road
Houston, Texas 77051

Jewel McGowan Seeds of Gratitude Awards Celebration and Annual Fundraiser

Sunday, August 2, 2026
Cullen Theater at the Wortham Theater Center
501 Texas Avenue
Houston, Texas 77002

VIP Reception: 2 p.m.
Main Program: 3 p.m.

Theme: GRIT • GROWTH • GREATNESS

Vendor and sponsorship opportunities remain available.

Media and event information:
Eva Pickens
Pickenseva@worldyouthfoundation.org
713-470-7917