Recap: Spring Into Transitions 2025: Empowering Teens to Navigate Change
Our panel discussion dedicated to teen mental health and wellness was a resounding success!
Watch the Event!
On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, teens, parents/caregivers, educators, and mental health advocates joined StarVista for our Spring into Transitions 2025 event. Sponsored by SolMateo, this annual panel discussion brings together individuals from all walks of life to support the wellness of students transitioning out of high school.
This year, the event was held virtually on Zoom and was accessible in both English and Spanish. The hour-long session highlighted crucial aspects of teen health and wellness throughout their high school journey.
The evening kicked off with a music session by Joel Leon, a local student.
Following the musical performance, guests were introduced to the night’s Emcee, Chad Slife, Ed.D., who welcomed attendees, outlined the discussion agenda, and acknowledged our sponsor.
Charis Denison, a youth advocate and teacher/consultant, served as our Keynote Speaker, addressing the current state of youth. Charis emphasized that many teens are striving to be seen and need support in finding their own direction in life. While adults express their desire for youth to succeed, barriers such as peer pressure, school systems, and parental relationships often hinder their progress. Charis explained how the panel speakers would assist students in achieving their goals and becoming who they aspire to be.
Nancy Quiggle, Ph.D., discussed ways for students and their parents/caregivers to cultivate hope in their daily lives, aiding them in navigating societal and cultural challenges. She highlighted that hope involves envisioning a better future and believing that our actions can lead us there. By tapping into hope, we can look beyond distressing or disturbing circumstances and focus on how we can contribute to the positive changes we long for.
Abe Talakai shared his personal experience as an immigrant, forging his own career path. He also discussed the option of learning a trade after high school. His apprenticeship introduced him to diverse people and businesses, and he expressed gratitude for the opportunities it provided. Abe noted, “you can earn while you learn,” and emphasized that this option is available annually for those seeking a unique and sustainable career path.
Denise Carillo spoke about the importance of finding community amidst the challenges of transitioning to college. Through StarVista’s HAP-Y program, Denise learned the significance of mental health for teens and young adults in new environments. She shared how personal experiences can support others in managing stress and difficult situations. Denise also revealed her plans to major in Psychology and her goal of fostering safe spaces and wellbeing wherever she goes.
The evening concluded with a brief Q&A session and closing remarks that inspired hope for the future of our youth, encouraging resilience during life’s significant transitions.
A big thank you to our incredible panelists!
Chad Slife, Ed.D. | Coordinator, Center for Access and Engagement, San Mateo County Office of Education
Denise Carillo | Ambassador, StarVista Health Ambassador Program for Youth (HAP-Y)
Abe Talakai Jr. | Assistant Training Director, San Mateo Joint Apprenticeship & Training Center
Charis Denison | Youth Advocate and Teacher/Consultant
Nancy Quiggle, Ph.D. | StarVista’s Director of Early Childhood and School-Based Services
Also, a big thank you to our musical guest, Joel Leon!
SolMateo is a volunteer group working to support our local community with issues surrounding mental health. By raising money and awareness for organizations that provide essential services like suicide prevention hotlines, emergency housing for homelessness, and counseling services, we strive to help our neighbors obtain important resources in times of need.