Taking Control of Destiny: 28th Annual LifeStyle Choices Forum Empowers Louisville Youth

Louisville, KY – The 28th Annual LifeStyle Choices Forum, sponsored by the Men of Quality (MOQ) program in partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the University of Louisville, brought energy and purpose to the University of Louisville's Belknap campus on Monday, March 10th and Wednesday, March 12th, 2025.

Dedicated to mentoring at-risk male students in grades 5-12, the MOQ program, sponsored by Theta Omega Inc., a non-profit arm of the Theta Omega chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., mission is to inspire male students to set goals that positively impact their paths in achieving their future endeavors.  Under the powerful theme, "Taking Control of Your Destiny," the two-day event provided a platform for local youth enrolled in JCPS schools to gain valuable insights and tools for navigating life's challenges and achieving their full potential.

The forum, which has been a staple in the Louisville community for over 28 years, kicked off on Monday with a focus on primary school age students with over 300 young men from 17 different elementary schools within the JCPS system. This was followed up on Wednesday with sessions targeted towards students from the 20+ JCPS middle and high schools that have active MOQ programs. In total, over 1000 students were in attendance. Breakout sessions throughout both days focused on a wide range of topics, all geared towards empowering students to make informed and positive choices for themselves and their families. These sessions covered areas such as financial literacy, conflict resolution, mental health, and showing respect to each other, equipping the student attendees with both useful knowledge and practical skills.

Another highlight of this year’s forum was the dedicated 2 day STEM mini conference, designed to spark interest and provide exposure to the crucial fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. 

This year’s event featured two prominent speakers who resonated deeply with the audience. Brother William Blackford, a former All American defensive back for the University of Louisville, renowned for his expertise in equity advocacy, organizational culture, and change management, delivered an inspirational message to the students on how to manifest their success through will power and envisioning their paths to a brighter future. 

Complementing Brother Blackford's address was an equally  powerful presentation by local community activist Sean Ali-Waddell, who shared his personal journey and emphasized the importance of community engagement and social responsibility. His message inspired students to become active participants in shaping a better future for their communities.  JCPS Superintendent Marty Polio was also in attendance and delivered messages  of encouragement to the students.

Another significant moment of the forum was the presentation of the "Cardinal Principles Awards." These prestigious awards recognized students who exemplified the four cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. The recipients were celebrated for their dedication to these principles, serving as role models for their peers.

The 28th Annual LifeStyle Choices Forum was a resounding success, destined to leave a lasting impact on the students who attended. Through engaging workshops, inspiring speakers, and meaningful recognition, the event empowered young people to take control of their destinies and strive for excellence. 

Behind the scenes, the executive committee of the LifeStyle Choices Forum worked tirelessly to ensure the event's success. Led by Brother M. Everett Shoulders as Chairperson, alongside Co-Chairs Lonnie Golston Jr. and Kirk Lattimore.  Brother Warren Shelton, Sr. and  Brother Delquan Dorsey.  Fortunately,  Men of Quality Founders, Brother Audwin Helton, Brother Lester Sanders and Brother Lucian Yates served on the committee as well as helping to make this year's event another resounding success.  The Men of Quality program and the Theta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. continue to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to fostering the development of future leaders within the Louisville community.

Article by Bro. William Langford

Photos by Bro. William Langford, Bro. Anthony Jones, Bro. Elliott Kelly, Jr. and Mr. Abdul Sharif