On February 19, 2026, students from Chinese Culture Connection’s Youth Leadership Mentoring Program (YLMP) attended a screening of the short film Surrender at the Boston Center for the Arts.
The event included a powerful Q&A discussion with filmmaker Jess Dang and local youth leaders. The conversation focused on mental health, AAPI representation, and problem gambling — topics that are often not openly discussed in Asian American communities.
This impactful event was made possible through collaboration between several community organizations:
Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center (BCNC) YouLead Program
Chinese Culture Connection (CCC)
Everett Haitian Community Center
The event was also supported by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of Problem Gambling Services.
Together, these partners created a space for honest dialogue and youth engagement around important social issues.
Sophia Chen, MH ’28
Panelist, YLMP 2025–2026 Secretary
After serving as a panelist, Sophia shared that she gained a deeper understanding of how gambling can impact a person’s life. She reflected that recovery is not a straight path, but a gradual process. Participating in the panel helped her see that change is possible and that more support systems are emerging for those facing silent struggles.
Vi Dinh, MC ’26
YLMP 2025–2026 President
Vi shared that she was deeply moved by the film. She noted that discussions about gambling relapse and youth mental health are often underrepresented in Asian American communities. Growing up in a community where gambling can be normalized during holidays, she recognized how easy it can be to fall into harmful patterns. Attending the screening helped her better understand the issue and think about how communities can take action.
At CCC, youth leadership is about more than developing skills — it’s about building awareness, empathy, and courage to speak up. By participating in events like this, YLMP students are helping to reduce stigma and strengthen community conversations around mental health.
We are proud of our student leaders for engaging thoughtfully and contributing their voices to issues that truly matter.
