A new multi-platform civic media initiative and TV program comes to IPM
Illinois Public Media (IPM), in partnership with The Communiversity Public Media Project, today announced the launch of “Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix,” a new multi-platform civic media initiative and TV program dedicated to amplifying youth voices, fostering authentic dialogue, and building the next generation of civic leaders.
Building on the legacy of BET’s original “Teen Summit” of the 1990s, “Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix” reimagines the groundbreaking format as a contemporary youth debate and discussion television series. The program brings together young people to engage in informed, respectful debate on complex civic issues while developing media literacy, communication skills, and personal voice for a 21st-century audience.
The launch is supported by Sheila Johnson, CEO of the Salamander Collection, co-founder of Black Entertainment Television, and esteemed University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign alumna, whose original vision helped establish “Teen Summit” as a cultural touchstone for youth voice and civic engagement.
“I am incredibly excited to support ‘Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix’, a new chapter that builds on the legacy of the original ‘Teen Summit’ I helped to create at BET,” said Johnson. “Bringing this project to life through a partnership with my alma mater, the University of Illinois, makes it especially meaningful. I look forward to working with Illinois Public Media and the Teen Summit team throughout the launch and engaging with the exceptional teens who will shape its future.”
“Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix” is also supported by the State of Illinois, with legislative leadership from Representative Carol Ammons, to advance a youth debate television program that will bring together exceptional Illinois teenagers for thoughtful civic dialogue.
“Teen Summit 2.0 reflects our shared belief that young people bring sophisticated perspectives to complex issues,” said Dr. Malaika McKee, creator and co-executive producer of Teen Summit 2.0 The Remix. “This partnership allows us to honor the legacy of the original program while expanding its reach through public media, education, and community-centered storytelling.”
Youth culture plays a central role in the program’s approach to civic engagement. Hip-hop serves as an important historical and cultural aesthetic that informs the program’s pedagogy and delivery, while also creating space to explore the diverse musical and cultural influences shaping today’s youth. The initiative emphasizes critical thinking, media literacy, and civic participation.
“What makes me excited about ‘Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix’ is that we’re building a model for teenagers to showcase their knowledge and viewpoints in a respectable way,” said Reginald Hardwick, co-executive producer and news and public affairs director at IPM. “There are many examples of teens making their mistakes publicly in viral social media moments. This program aims to elevate with positive engagement on platforms for all generations to experience.”
Through the collaboration between Illinois Public Media, The Communiversity Public Media Project, and state leadership, “Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix” advances a shared commitment to education, equity, and youth-centered civic media.
Upon completion, “Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix” will be distributed by Illinois Public Media and broadcast on WILL-TV and IPM’s digital platforms. Additional details about the program, youth participation, and official airdate will be announced in the coming months. More information available at https://teensummit2.net/.
About Illinois Public Media
Illinois Public Media is a not-for-profit public media service of the College of Media at the University of Illinois, enriching people's lives through programs and services that educate, entertain, inspire, empower, and address community needs and concerns. Current services include WILL-AM 580, Illinois Classical, Illinois Soul, WILL-TV, Illinois Public Media News and many more.
About The Communiversity Public Media Project
The Communiversity Public Media Project is an initiative of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign that connects education, public media, and community engagement to advance inclusive storytelling and civic learning. The project is sponsored by the College of Education’s Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership and by a Chancellor’s Fellowship through the Office of The Executive Associate Chancellor of Public Engagement.
Media Contact:
Heather Ennis-Rosenblat
Communications and Outreach Specialist
Illinois Public Media
(217) 300-2411
hbennis2@illinois.edu
