We Day empowers youth in San Jose

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- Creating a global platform for social change was the goal of Wednesday's We Day event at the SAP Center in San Jose. It brought together some of the brightest minds in California and some big names.

Nearly 16,000 student leaders were there for the movement of young people leading local and global change.

Zaria Baker is an eighth grader at San Leandro's John Muir Middle School where leadership students have planned nearly 20 different charitable events throughout the year.

"You care about others, you put others before yourself," said Baker.

It was a star-studded event from start to finish. From athletes, to Hollywood actors, even musical artist Colbie Caillat took the stage.

We Day is connected to the year-long We Act Program that provides a platform for youth to learn about some of today's pressing social issues.

"No one's given a ticket here, you have to earn the right to get here," said Newsom.

Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, served as co-chairs of the event.

"Their values, making a difference, and making the world a better place, and that's thrilling to me," said Siebel Newsom.

Those who came out were glad to be a part of it.

"Really, really inspiring to see all of these kids come together,I've always been impressed with the leaders and talent they bring together," said volunteer Sarah Lohrey.

"The youth are our futures, and what they do in the years to come, will shape what this world's going to be like," said Oakland Raiders Justin Tuck.

These kids are turning the day's inspiration into sustained action.

"It's very mind-blowing to see all these people who make a change in this world, and they're doing the same thing as you, it's just, it's just amazing," said Baker.

Encouraging those around them to create the change they want to see.