West Meck club hones in on student talent

It's no secret that technology is seeping into every aspect of our world. Those who don't learn it and embrace it will eventually fall behind to a younger generation who has consumed it since birth.

Today, kids at West Mecklenburg High school are blogging, shooting and editing video, writing articles for a searchable database and broadcasting on the radio.

They are part of a unique club at the school called Our Voices. The club aims to teach students how to use their talents to build credibility as an expert by writing for ezines.com. Students also post videos to YouTube and broadcast on blogtalkradio.com, said Stephen Gibson, the club's adviser.

The mission is to help students find a career path that monetizes what they love to do.

Throughout the year, the club follows the format of Brendon Burchard's Experts Academy, which teaches individuals how to become experts and leaders in their communities. Then, each West Meck student involved in the club aims to create a total of 10 accepted articles for ezines.com. Once they have 10 submissions accepted, they reach "expert status" on the site.

The club meets from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday, and there are six teachers who provide aid.

Learn more about these Young Achievers on their YouTube page.

Continue to follow Young Achievers and look for a profile soon on the club's president, Sperots "Sam" Bon Jrang.

And in the meantime, if you know (or are!) someone you think has an inspiring story, email me at youngachievers@charlotteobserver.com or call 704-358-6043.