TAMPA - The Skills Center in Tampa partnered with Starbucks to create a safe space for teenagers to talk about race in America today.

“The work that we do at the center is all about passion and purpose,” said Skills Center Director Chris Ward. “This time around we wanted to give these students an opportunity to be exposed to corporate management and their perspective.”

The Skills Center, which is supported by a Tampa YES! grant - had day-long sessions for dozens of students ranging from 12 to 17 years old. Each of the sessions prepared them the open forum.

“I think if you love someone, you will educate them,” said one Tampa Yes! student. “I can’t just expect you to know what’s going on in my life.”

Students chimed in on important topics that discussed the Civil Rights era, the recent attack on the capital and also what it means to be a part of a community.

“I feel like everything that’s happened in the past year has not been easy but you have to start with those conversations that are difficult, said another Tampa YES! student.”

The conversation closed with a more private conversation with Starbucks on diversity in the work place.

“We need you guys,” said Starbucks Regional Director, Solomon Sinclair. “Diversity is very important.”

Starbucks presented education opportunities to students interested in furthering their education after high school.

“If you’re working at least 20 hours you can be eligible for free college through Arizona State,” said one Starbucks employee.

The overall message today was accountability; each mentor encouraging the students not to let circumstances get in the way of their short and long term goals.