On Wednesday, the 11th Annual City of Selma Youth Conference, hosted by Selma City Councilwoman Angela Benjamin, will get started at points throughout the block surrounding city hall.

The event focuses on leadership training, team building, self-esteem and creating “strong, critical-thinking, productive and wise leaders” for Selma.

The events begin with “Free To Be Me” classes for young men and women and incorporates a variety of activities, including “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race” events, modeled after the television shows, and presenters from across the United States.

Further, there will be workshops on ACT prep, financial literacy, civil engineering and more.

“Our young people are important to us and represent our leadership of tomorrow,” Benjamin said. “So, we must take care of them today.”

Benjamin said the annual event usually attracts as many as 100 area youths, many popping in an out of the various workshops between band camps, sports practices and other activities.

In addition to the number of activities aimed at preparing students for the future, the event also serves as a way for local young people to get a bit of exercise.

Participants will also take part in an outdoor survival course as part of the conference.

Benjamin called the event a “walking conference” that incorporates movement throughout the day with events like outdoor team-building workshops and a conference-ending Fun Day at Phoenix Park.

The theme for this year’s event is “Imagine That” and registration will take place at 7:45 a.m. Wednesday morning at the Selma Convention Center.