Written by: Sadie Nipon

“Join us for an exciting day of entertainment, advocacy workshops, cooking demos, and inspiring talks that put YOU at the heart of food advocacy.”

That promise came to fruition this spring at the Fuel the Future Youth Community & School Food Summit, thanks in large part to the leaderships of Wellness in the Schools’ National Program Director, Marion Williams, who gathered students, partners, and ideas from across New Jersey.

At its core, the summit convened two youth groups with whom WITS has been deeply engaged and where Marion saw an opportunity for connection: Camden Youth Advisory Council (CYAC) and Newark’s Student Nutrition Advisory Council (SNAC). From CYAC addressing school food quality, clean water access, and community wellness in Camden; to SNAC advocating for healthier, more equitable, and culturally relevant school meals in Newark, Marion saw an opportunity to create a space for shared learning, collaboration, and inspiration.

The result was a dynamic, high-energy day designed not just for students, but shaped by them. Set in the vibrant gardens of the Greater Newark Conservancy, the summit blended hands-on learning with movement and joy. Students rotated through workshops on cooking and knife skills, wrote letters to legislators advocating for change, and explored food systems in interactive sessions. Between workshops, they jumped into hip-hop dance and Double Dutch sessions.

And, of course, food was at the center. Inspired by a familiar reality to high school students, many who are transitioning to college. What do college students reach for when they need something quick and affordable? For many, the answer is ramen. WITS took a familiar staple that is high in sodium and turned it into something nutritious to support students in the classroom. WITS Chefs Shani and Nick created an interactive “silent snacking” ramen bar where students built their own bowls using fresh ingredients that were thoughtfully sourced by local purveyors. We sourced ingredients from both districts: partnering with The Common Market in Newark and Zone 7 in Camden. Starting with ramen noodles or brown rice, students layered in mushrooms, roasted vegetables, leafy greens, and proteins like beans or ground turkey, exploring combinations that were both nourishing and satisfying.

The goal was not just to feed students, it was to show them what is possible with fresh ingredients. One student shared, “The food was delicious, especially the mushrooms and bok choy. #loveveggies” Others highlighted the sense of connection and excitement: “I had a really good time–delicious food and really nice people.” One student even shared, “This event has been the most fun thing in my whole life.”

For Marion and the WITS team, this is the heart of the work, creating experiences that are not only educational, but foster community connection. By meeting students where they are, elevating their voices, and rethinking even the simplest foods, WITS is helping young people see themselves as leaders in shaping healthier communities.

With overwhelming enthusiasm from students and partners alike, Fuel the Future is already being envisioned as an annual event, one that will continue to grow, connect, and inspire.