A symposium to foster dialogue between young men and notable role models will be held Thursday at the St. Paul's AME Relational Hall.

The aim of the 'Boys to Men' Symposium is to identify the most pressing issues affecting young men as well as provide solutions and resources to caretakers to help address those issues.

Kevin Powell, who is an accomplished writer, activist and public speaker will be the featured panellist.

Mr. Powell stepped on to the international stage almost two decades ago as a pop culture icon and influencer.

He appeared on the original cast of the Real World New York, wrote for Vibe Magazine and has interviewed notable people such as General Colin Powell and the late Tupac Shakur.

He is the author of 'The Black Male Handbook A Blueprint for Life', and was featured on Oprah last Thursday.

Other panellist include: Wayne Caines, CEO of Digicel Bermuda, former PLP Senator, local speaker and community activist, Dr. Tim Jackson, Principal of Sandys Middle School, educator and community activist, Rev. Jamaine Tucker, Minister and Social Activist, Trace White, social entrepreneur and administrative supervisor of the charity, IMPACT Mentoring Academy; an educational and occupational empowerment programme for school-aged young men, and Lt. Col. Edward Lamb, Commissioner of Prisons and former Commanding Officer of the Bermuda Regiment.

The event, which will be hosted by the Bermuda alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, will begin with a reception from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., with the Panel discussion starting at 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Also during the evening there will be resources booths set up to assist parents, mentors, community service organisations and church groups: the booths will be manned by groups such as the Mirrors Program, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Bermuda Youth Counselling Services and martial arts groups.