Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – The Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library invites young leaders to Bold Enough to Begin: Youth Leadership, Confidence, and Community Impact, the second installment of its 2026 Speaker Series, featuring award-winning international sports manager, bestselling author, and speaker Dr. Tywanna Smith on Thursday, Oct. 1, at 10 a.m. in the Round Room.
This event is open to all but best suited for ages 15 and older, as well as young adults. Local high schools will be bringing groups of students to participate, providing an opportunity for young people from across the community to come together, connect with one another, and engage in meaningful conversations about leadership, confidence, career readiness, and their role in shaping the future.
For nearly 19 years, Dr. Smith has worked with more than 60 NBA, NFL, WNBA, and international athletes as a financial and brand manager. As President of The Athlete’s Nexus, she is a thought leader at the intersection of global sports, business, and education. Dr. Smith has developed professional development and financial literacy programs for high school and college students, including PRO-Ready and Teen Money Box.
A former international basketball player, philanthropist, bestselling author, and professor, Dr. Smith brings a unique perspective on preparing young people for success both personally and professionally. Through her PRO-Ready workshops, she has worked with students at colleges and conferences across the country, helping young people develop the skills, mindset, and confidence needed to pursue their goals.
During “Bold Enough to Begin,” Dr. Smith will focus on building confidence, developing a strong mindset, and taking initiative. She will challenge attendees to recognize their strengths, advocate for themselves, and take meaningful steps toward their personal, educational, and future goals.
Following Dr. Smith’s presentation, a moderated panel featuring student leaders from the Arkansas State University Center of Leadership Excellence will offer a young adult perspective on leadership, personal growth, and community engagement. Panelists will share their own experiences and discuss what it means to make an impact while still in high school or college.
“We want young people to understand that their voices matter right now,” said Rylie Yawson, Marketing and PR Manager for the Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library. “This event will encourage young people to be bold enough to begin, whether that means speaking up, pursuing a goal, taking on a leadership role, or finding a way to make a difference in their community.”
The program will also include an interactive activity, audience question-and-answer session, giveaways, and opportunities for attendees to connect with resources that support their personal and professional development.
Bold Enough to Begin: Youth Leadership, Confidence, and Community Impact is the second of three events in the library’s 2026 Speaker Series, which is proudly sponsored by Friends of the Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library, St. Bernards Healthcare and Medical Group, Farmers & Merchants Bank, NEA Baptist, Arkansas State University Division of Access and Institutional Engagement, and Best Manufacturing.
The event is free to attend and registration is not required. Additional event details will be announced on the library’s website and social media channels.