My name is Demetrius Terry and I currently have the privilege of serving as Mr. Free Teens USA. On May 30th, 2009, at the 11th annual Free Teens banquet I was crowned as King. I was so excited about this great achievement. Upon winning my Title, Mariah Ralph who was crowned Ms. Free Teens USA 2009 and I were chosen to attend the STARS national conference in Colorado that took place on June 28 – July 1.

I was very excited because for one I never traveled to Colorado before. Also, it was my first time ever riding an airplane. Once we arrived at Colorado State University, I saw there were a lot of kids there. At first, I was nervous because I didn’t know anyone. But as the conference went on it became much better.

At the conference,  I learned a lot of things. I signed up for 5 workshops. They were:  “Never give up on your dreams,” “Choices of a Champion,” “Road Signs,” “Who’s the Man?” and Join the Abstinence Movement.”

My most favorite workshop was “Who’s the Man?”  which was taught by Johan. He explained how the world characterizes men in the wrong ways. How all men should be tough and show no emotions. And also the three C’s-cars, clothes, and cash. Which is wrong. He said men should be showing compassion for their wife’s lives even though they may be providing. And if a man is not providing for his wife then leave him alone.

Also I had the opportunity to meet NFL star, Keith Davis. He told us the sad story of his life and how he made it. The whole conference was based on the message of abstaining from sex until marriage.  It was just incredible to see over 500 teens come together from all over the country to share ideas. The program showed me to never give up on my dreams. It also showed me that abstinence is the best way to go. They showed me leadership skills and ideas to bring back to my community and high school.