The City of Brandon and Westman Immigrant Services (WIS) are teaming up to bring a new youth program to Brandon, and according them, it will be the first program of its kind in the entire province.
This afternoon, the city and WIS announced they were starting their Youth Rise Leadership Program. The program is not only aimed at introducing youth from diverse backgrounds to career pathways but at civic engagement and leadership development.
“We are thrilled to partner with Westman Immigrant Services to deliver this Youth Rise Leadership Program,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett. “This leadership program initiative will provide young people with diverse backgrounds an opportunity to explore career options and gain real insights into how our City of Brandon is operated, especially through direct interaction with various City departments. Partnering with WIS and Urban Alliance has been a great experience, and we’re excited to see the impact this initiative will have on our future leaders.”
According to a release from the city, participants will get weekly one-on-one sessions with different municipal departments to expose them to potential career paths and help them see how local government works. They will also take part in leadership, communication, and personal growth activities with an aim toward helping them in present and with “future opportunities”.
“Youth retention is vital to the long-term strength of our region, and that begins with creating real opportunities for leadership and belonging,” said Enver Naidoo, CEO of WIS. “The Youth Rise Leadership Program is about showing young people especially those from immigrant and diverse backgrounds that they have a future right here in Brandon. We are incredibly grateful for the City’s vision and the leadership of Mayor Fawcett, whose support has made this partnership possible. This initiative reflects what is possible when community organizations and municipalities work together to invest in the next generation.”
