8th Annual Health Careers Start Here Youth Conference
On Wednesday, November 8, Camarena Health proudly hosted the 8th annual Health Careers Start Here Youth Conference in Madera, CA. This dynamic event brought students from schools across the region to the Madera County Superintendent of Schools for a day of inspiration, exploration, and hands-on learning about healthcare careers.
The day began with a warm welcome from Jazmin Rios, Workforce Development Manager at Camarena Health, who encouraged students to make the most of their experience. “Have fun, ask questions, and let today be the start of something exciting for your future,” she shared, setting the tone for an engaging and interactive day.
Interactive Workshops
Suturing Lab
Students practiced suturing on artificial skin, guided by Physician Assistant student Jennifer Ha, and other PA students, giving them a realistic glimpse into this specific medical procedure.
Behavioral Health
Rosalba Serrano Rivera, LCSW, and Brianna Lara, Behavioral Health Community Navigator, led a workshop on setting personal boundaries, emphasizing emotional well-being and the importance of safety in interpersonal relationships.
Dental Lab
Dr. Rakshit Raju Oberoi, DDS, and his dental team taught students about oral hygiene while allowing them to use dental tools to clean imitation plaque from artificial teeth.
Pediatric Lab
Keynote speaker Dr. Michelle Perez and Dr. Issac Horowitz introduced students to hands-on activities in pediatric care, showcasing the critical skills and compassion required to care for young patients.
Concussion Simulator
Nickolas De Leon, PA, helped students understand concussions through simulation goggles that recreated symptoms and challenges associated with recovery.
EECU Workshop
Team members from EECU taught students about managing finances, covering essential topics like budgeting, saving, and the importance of financial responsibility for their future.
Keynote Lunch
During lunch, students were inspired by this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Michelle Perez, a pediatrician who shared her remarkable journey. Growing up without doctors who looked like her, Dr. Perez faced numerous challenges on her path to becoming a physician. Her heartfelt story of resilience and determination resonated with students, as she reminded them that they, too, can overcome obstacles to achieve their dreams. Dr. Perez concluded her keynote with an engaging Q&A session, answering students’ questions and encouraging their aspirations.
Closing Reflections
Camarena Health is proud to host this annual event, which continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. By providing students with early exposure to healthcare careers, the Health Careers Start Here Youth Conference builds pathways for a brighter, healthier future in our community.
We look forward to seeing you next year at the 9th Annual Health Careers Start Here Youth Conference! If you, or your school is interested in being a part of this fantastic event, please feel free to email Jazmin Rios at jrios@camarenahealth.org for more information.
