Peacebuilders Summer Recap

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Leadership Unlocked: How Youth Led the Way This Summer!

This summer, our space buzzed with energy and inspiration as we welcomed an incredible group of young leaders, aged 17 to 24 to our Summer Employment placement. These youth came together with a shared goal: to dive deeper into their leadership potential by facilitating peace circles and making a meaningful impact on youth programs across the city.

Among them were Yasmin and Arianna who couldn’t wait to share their transformative experiences during the program, leaving us all inspired by their stories.

Arianna Slowley:

Hi! My name is Arianna and I’m a first generation Canadian from Jamaica! I am in my second year at Queen’s University studying concurrent education and biology. 

During my time at Peacebuilders, I worked as a Youth Ambassador with hopes of learning skills that would benefit me in my future career as a teacher. 

My time here at Peacebuilders was truly memorable and not only did I learn so many life changing skills but made connections that will last beyond my time here. As a Youth Ambassador, I worked in many different communities across Toronto. Specifically, I worked with youth at Scadding Court Community Centre, Eastview BGC, YMCA and Toronto Community Housing (TCHC). Within these communities, my peers and I facilitated circles that focused on: healthy relationships, financial awareness, mental health, and more. 

I also had the opportunity to participate in events like Eastviewbana (a Caribana kick off event) and the Raptors Youth Summit. It was such a joy watching how Peacebuilders made a difference in these communities, and helped brighten up these spaces. 

Peacebuilders has inspired me to become more community driven and has shown me that my voice can make a difference. As my time here at Peacebuilders comes to an end, I’ll be walking away with many skills such as: conflict resolution, self advocacy, and leadership. 

This was an amazing summer job, and I would do it all over again if I had the chance!

Yasmin Ali :

Hi! My name is Yasmin. I am an 11th grade student at SATEC @ W.A. Porter CI. After high school, I plan to pursue a career path in Finance. I am a resident of Scarborough and I come from an Ethiopian-Italian and Eritrean background. 

I was first introduced to Peacebuilders as I was a participant in two cycles of their Sister to Sister program, run in partnership with The Neighbourhood Group (TNG).

Last winter, I applied for a year round Youth Animator position and decided to stay on for the summer full time. Throughout the summer, I got the opportunity to work at several community agencies and partners like the YMCA, TCHC, and Eastview BGC. At these sites, my peers and I facilitated restorative dialogue circles on different topics such as mental health, music, social media, self advocacy and empowerment, self esteem, healthy relationships and boundaries, and conflict resolution. 

I was given the chance to participate in many different professional development workshops throughout the summer. I was able to connect with someone in my chosen career path, as she facilitated a workshop on Financial Literacy. The workshop was very eye opening and insightful. After the workshop, I connected with this individual to foster a new relationship as my new mentor.

I loved getting to explore the Regent Park community, and the city of Toronto as a whole. In Regent Park, I discovered Rooster Coffee House, which is a hidden gem in the community for coffee.

The experience was super fun! My biweekly pay cheque was a bonus! 🙂 

It was an absolute pleasure to have these remarkable students with us this summer. Their dedication, creativity, and passion truly brought our programs to life, and we couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished. As they head back to school, we wish them nothing but the very best, knowing that the leadership skills and experiences they’ve gained will continue to guide them on their journey.

Help empower the next generation of leaders! Your donation ensures more youth have the opportunity to gain the skills and experiences they need to thrive. Visit here today and contribute to their bright future!

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]