Young Authors Young Artists Conference returns to the College of Saint Benedict

On May 23, 2025, Resource Training & Solutions proudly hosted the 20th Annual Young Authors Young Artists (YAYA) Conference at the College of Saint Benedict—welcoming students from across central Minnesota for a day of creativity, collaboration, and inspiration.

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Designed for students in grades 3–8, the conference invited young authors and artists to explore their imaginations through four hands-on, engaging sessions of their choice. Topics ranged from writing and illustration to music, performing arts, and public speaking.

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Bringing students to a college campus like Saint Ben’s adds an extra layer of impact—helping them envision their future, experience a vibrant learning environment, and see themselves in spaces of higher learning.

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Highlights from this year’s sessions included:

• Do Rad Things – Create Skateboard Art: Students transformed real skateboards into colorful masterpieces using Sharpies, blending design and expression through bold, personalized artwork.
• Comic Book Writing: Young writers dove into the world of comics in this dynamic storytelling session led by author Crown Shepherd, where words and visuals collided in creative new ways.
• Amazing AD-ventures: Participants formed mini ad agencies to develop catchy slogans, eye-catching graphics, and imaginative sound effects for a variety of products.
• Lead the Beat! Leadership and Drum Circles: Through rhythm and movement, students learned about leadership and teamwork while creating music together in an interactive drum circle.

Throughout the day, the campus buzzed with energy as students explored new skills, expressed themselves artistically, and connected with peers who shared their passions.

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📸 View photos from YAYA 2025 >>

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As the 20th annual YAYA Conference came to a close, students left with more than just the art they created—they left with fresh ideas, newfound confidence, and a deeper love for creative expression. The countdown has already begun for next year’s event, where young imaginations will once again come together to learn, grow, and inspire.

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For more information about the YAYA Conference, please contact Jennifer Johnson at jjohnshon@resourcecoop-mn.gov.