violence and drugs.

And their views will be aired before millions of Americans on the US cable network -- Black Entertainment Television (BET).

Organiser Gina Spence said Monday night's Teen Summit at the Number One Shed on Front Street attracted more than 500 teens, youngsters and parents.

"We had standing room only,'' Ms Spence said. "We had a great turnout, it was jam-packed. We had everything from seven-year-olds to college students as well as parents turn up. We even had members of the White Wall crew.'' The forum gave local teens a chance to discuss and recommend solutions to the problems of violence and drugs.

"The first half of the evening focused on youth-on-youth violence. Drug/youth counsellor Austin Warner from Addiction Service spoke,'' Ms Spence explained.

"The second part of the evening examined drug abuse.'' The four-hour event, attended by Premier Pamela Gordon and Opposition Leader Jennifer Smith, was hosted by BET's On Jam Fran and Power 95's Sherri J.

"It was a reality check for a lot of the kids when they listened to stories from someone who lived in Washington D.C.,'' Ms Spence said. "There was a lot of constructive discussion. The kids were very attentive.'' And she said there was plans to stage a concert with a major recording artist to help reinforce Monday night's positive message.

"There will be concert, at the moment we are talking to Little Miss and Puff Daddy about someone coming down to discuss these issues as well as perform.'' She added that officials were looking to hold the event annually.

No date has been set for the airing of the Bermudian Teen Summit.

Gina Spence