It’s no secret that the online realm enables billions to publically share their
thoughts exchange information and knowledge. It has publicized our desires and
personal lives in a way like never before and its public impact can be seen
magnified amongst teens. During this adolescent time in people’s lives, it is
important to explore different forms of self-expression and social interaction.
The internet provides teens with a number of tools to encourage individual expression
and social connection.

Adolescents have a power they never really possessed before with the power of social media.
They have the power to reach an audience and be heard despite their age and
resources. Programs, such as the Algerian Youth Leadership Program of UNR’s
Northern Nevada International Centre and Open Youth Networks of Columbia
College’s Dept. of Interactive Arts and Media, have been created to teach
social and modern media tools to young students encouraging them to make a
difference in their community. There is an effort to bring awareness to young
adults of the power social media holds and how they can use it to be heard and
make a difference in their community.

"What we want to emphasize with these students is that the permission-based model has
shifted," said Todd Felts, University of Nevada Reno Professor. "Whereas
traditionally you would need to go through newspapers or other outlets to
discuss or create news, it's now much easier to do that on your own, especially
with the use of social media."

Social media provides much more than just a fun way to chat with your friends. It holds
immense opportunities when exercised in the correct way. Teaching the youth how
to utilize these techniques encourages innovation and leadership. It encourages
them to take the lead, create something meaningful and share it with the world.
Social media is forever changing and progressing making it important to
introduce our youth to this fast paced, interactive and creative environment.
The online world welcomes ideas from all individuals no matter what age or
demographic you are. So get involved, tell the world what you believe and show
it what you can create.