Back2School Jam 2025: A Day Houston’s ‘Youth’ Won’t Forget

On Saturday, August 10, the heart of Houston pulsed with possibility. Over 1,000 middle school, high school, and college students poured into the World Youth Foundation’s annual Back2School Jam — a free summit designed to prepare young minds for the year ahead.

World Youth Foundation + Photo: Elliot Guidry

Among the buzzing crowd was 9-year-old Jazelle Calhoun, a bright-eyed STEAM enthusiast whose love for robotics made her a star of the day. Clutching a backpack stuffed with new supplies, she darted from science exhibits to game trucks, her smile proof that learning and fun can share the same stage.

Photo: Elliot Guidry

Throughout the day, students explored interactive workshops on mental health, leadership, financial literacy, and career readiness. Local leaders and educators stepped up to the mic, sharing stories and strategies that left the room electric with ambition. The energy soared with performances by pop singer XANDi, the Royal Duchess Step Team, Miss Houston, and 10-year-old powerhouse vocalist Karsynn Outley, whose soulful performance of Rise Up brought the crowd to its feet.

Photo: Elliot Guidry

Vendors offered everything from wellness resources to college prep advice. And when the last backpack was handed out, the real takeaway was clear: WYF isn’t just sending kids back to school prepared — they’re sending them back inspired.

For over three decades, the World Youth Foundation has stood behind one mission: teaching all youth how to win in life, against all odds. On August 10th, 2025, they proved, once again, that when a community comes together for its children, the future shines a little brighter.

Photo: Elliot Guidry