Coming Up on the Youth Channel: Taking Charge of Your Life

New York took steps in the right direction this week as Governor Cuomo signed legislation making Raise the Age and free tuition a reality for our state’s youth. Next week on the Youth Channel, tune in to programming that features young people who are taking charge of their lives and doing what’s best for them.

Watch “Girls Empowered,” “Closed to Open,” and “State of Mind” to hear from youth who struggled to make big decisions and check out “NightCap” for an inspiring story about a young recording artist who worked hard to become a star.

The Youth Channel airs programming every weeknight from 6-7pm on MNN 4 (FiOS 36, RCN 85, TWC 67 & 1998) and MNN HD (TWC 1993). To learn about MNN’s Youth Media Center and the work they produce, click here.

Check out the upcoming schedule below:

Monday, April 17 & Friday, April 21

NightCap, episode 12

This NightCap Spotlight special features singer/songwriter Laura Rizzotto who describes her sound as "pop with a growl." Laura hails from the beautiful Rio De Janeiro where she got an auspicious start in music.

At the age of 15, Laura struck her first record deal with Universal Music Brazil. Her debut album, “Made in Rio,” garnered her acclaim throughout Brazil and landed her the opportunity to open up for Demi Lovato. Tune in to hear Laura's journey from Brazil to the Big Apple. She will also be performing some of the tracks from her sophomore album, "Reason to Stay."

Tuesday, April 18

State of Mind: Maintaining Balance

Being a college student can be a difficult balancing act. It is easy to get weighed down with the pressures of academics, social life, and choosing a major and career. If personal problems are piled on top of these pressures, you can feel overwhelmed...and lose your balance.

As such, some college students feel that college life is like walking a tightrope -- with many competing activities vying for your attention and time. Host and Producer, Krishna C. Nadella, speaks with Jon Abesh, Penn State Junior, about his perspectives on this important topic.

Wednesday, April 19

Girls Empowered: Reproductive Justice

Reproductive justice is met when people have the power and resources to make healthy decisions about their bodies, sexuality, and reproduction.

In our conversation today we want to focus specifically on the issue of abortion. Host Naomi will sit down with guests Chris Slattery, Aisha and Ifeoma Anunkor to further discuss this issue.

Thursday, April 20

From Closed to Open

This All-American High School Film Fest original follows the story of two teen parents who opted to give their daughter up for adoption but chose to remain a staple in her life.