As part of the community engagement activities connected to United in Voices: Intercultural Dialogue Festival, youth participants came together for another meaningful workshop focused on reflection, creativity, and positive change.

The workshop began with a simple but powerful question:

“What is one thing you would change about the world?”

Working in small groups, participants shared their thoughts and explored important issues affecting communities locally and globally. Their conversations touched on themes such as:

• Environment
• Poverty
• Education
• Bullying
• Health

Through sticky notes, group discussions, collaborative thinking, and creative expression, youth reflected on real challenges facing our world and imagined ways to build a more compassionate, inclusive, and connected future.

The workshop provided a space for young people to express their voices, listen to one another, work as a team, and transform their ideas into meaningful artistic expression.

We concluded the day by celebrating everyone’s contributions, sharing information about upcoming community events, and capturing memories together.

A sincere thank you to all the youth participants, volunteers, and community partners who helped make this workshop a success.

Every idea shared and every brushstroke painted reminded us that change begins with reflection, creativity, and the courage to imagine a better world together.

For more information : United in Voices

The post Youth Workshop Encourages Creativity, Reflection and Positive Change | United in Voices appeared first on GRFS.

The program brought together 70 youth participants with 27 professionals from a wide range of sectors. Organized around 16 networking tables, the event created a meaningful space for mentorship, dialogue, career exploration, and community connection.

Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to meet professionals, ask questions, hear real career stories, and gain practical insights into different education and career pathways. The program helped youth better understand university and program choices, career opportunities in Canada, and the importance of building strong professional networks.

The event featured professionals from several fields, including employment and career development, non-profit and community services, IT and computer science, engineering, legal and compliance, policing, government and public administration, education, healthcare, business and finance, research and academia, journalism, project management, and community leadership.

NextGen Connect: Learn & Lead reflected GRFS’s commitment to supporting youth through holistic development. At GRFS, we believe young people need access not only to academic and social support, but also to mentorship, leadership opportunities, career guidance, and meaningful community connections.

The event also demonstrated the strength of collaboration between professionals, volunteers, and community leaders who are committed to investing in the next generation. By sharing their experiences and guidance, guest professionals helped participants imagine new possibilities for their future and take practical steps toward their goals.

GRFS sincerely thanks all guest speakers, professionals, community representatives, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of the program.

A special thank you goes to the Young Professionals Waterloo Region Team for their leadership, vision, and dedication in organizing this impactful event.

Programs like NextGen Connect: Learn & Lead help build confidence, expand opportunities, and empower youth to connect, learn, and lead.

The post NextGen Connect: Learn & Lead Brings 70 Youth Together with 27 Professionals appeared first on GRFS.

We began with a short presentation focused on values such as empathy, responsibility, and personal growth, followed by a thoughtful discussion where students shared their reflections and connected these ideas to their own lives.

The evening continued with interactive activities like “10 Words Challenge” and a fun Jeopardy-style quiz, creating a space where learning and connection came together in an enjoyable way.

The winning team received small gifts, and all participants were given mini gift packages to take home.

With around 30 students in attendance, it was a beautiful evening of learning, connection, and community building

The post Grade 7–11 Girls Gathering & Reflection Night appeared first on GRFS.

Attendees will have the chance to connect with emerging professionals across various fields, gain insights into career pathways, and build relationships that extend beyond the classroom. Whether you’re exploring your next steps or looking to grow your professional network, NextGen is all about learning from one another and building a strong, supportive community for the future.

Bonus Opportunity: Get your resume and LinkedIn profile reviewed in just 10 minutes by experienced professionals. Receive personalized feedback, practical tips, and actionable insights to help you stand out in today’s competitive job market.

Proudly organized by the Young Professionals Waterloo Region Team at Grand River Friendship Society.

The post NextGen: Connect, Learn, Lead appeared first on GRFS.

Experiences like this help prepare our youth for the next chapter of their education and inspire them to dream bigger. We are proud of our students and grateful to our mentors for their guidance and dedication.

The post Exploring New Horizons in Vancouver appeared first on GRFS.

The event was filled with insightful discussions about Toronto universities, including academic programs, admission tips, and student life. It was a great platform for students to gain firsthand knowledge and guidance for their future educational journeys.

Of course, no great event is complete without a delicious meal! ? A warm and welcoming environment helped foster meaningful conversations and networking.

A special thank you to our partner Turkish Cultural Centre Ottawa for their support!

? Stay tuned for more events that empower and inspire our youth!

The post Inspiring Career Day for High School Students appeared first on GRFS.

A big thank you to all participants for making this event a success! We’re proud to support our future leaders in making informed decisions about their educational and career paths.

The post Exciting Career Day for High School Students appeared first on GRFS.

The program included:
? Daily Book Reading Sessions
Participants enjoyed three daily book reading sessions, followed by fun Kahoot quizzes. This interactive approach allowed the youth to discuss their readings in an engaging and educational way, making learning more enjoyable and effective.

? Group Activities for Fun and Learning
Young people participated in group activities designed to combine fun with learning. Through these activities, they bonded, developed teamwork skills, and enjoyed unforgettable moments.

?‍? Participation and Growth
A total of 195 youth, ranging from Grade 6 to university level, benefited from this program. They gained valuable skills that contributed to their personal development and helped them integrate more smoothly into Canadian society.

This exceptional camp provided a safe and nurturing environment for the youth to develop, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It was a step forward in building their future with confidence and joy!

? Empowering the Next Generation Together ?

The post Unforgettable Winter Camp for Youth in Canada! appeared first on GRFS.