Orange County, CA – On Thursday, February 6, 2025, ASEZ STAR, a volunteer group composed of middle and high school students from the World Mission Society Church of God, hosted a powerful and inspiring School Violence Prevention Forum at Orange County Zion. The event brought together more than 50 students from Riverside, Temecula, Orange County, Cerritos, Torrance, and Oceanside, alongside dozens of supporting members and over 30 guests who came to support the cause.
The forum focused on raising awareness of the various forms of school violence, with an emphasis on bullying, a pervasive issue that many students have personally encountered. Through engaging discussions, expert insights, and heartfelt performances, the event aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and motivation to foster safer and more inclusive school environments.
Performances and Guest Speakers
One of the highlights of the evening was a moving student choir performance, which underscored the importance of unity and support among peers. The audience was further encouraged by the powerful words of guest speakers, including Shalini Quattlebaum, a pageant winner dedicated to youth advocacy, and Veronica Alvarez, a counselor at Savanna High School in Anaheim. Alvarez emphasized the critical role students can play in standing up for their peers and actively supporting those who are targeted.
Notably, the Savanna High School girls’ basketball team attended the event, demonstrating their commitment to promoting kindness and respect both on and off the court. Adding to the significance of the evening, former WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) player Leaonna Odom, who played for the New York Liberty, shared her insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of fostering a culture of support within schools.
Support From Local Teachers and Coaches
The event also saw the participation of teachers and coaches from the local community, reinforcing the collective responsibility of educators and mentors to prevent school violence. Attendees left the forum empowered with actionable steps to create safer educational spaces inspired by the collaboration between students, educators, and community leaders.
ASEZ STAR continues to lead the charge in promoting positive change, reminding students that their voices and actions matter in the fight against school violence. Through initiatives such as this forum, they demonstrate that change begins with awareness, advocacy, and the courage to stand up for others.
