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.

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The program began with an overview of graduate (master’s) opportunities, offering valuable insight into future academic pathways.

Throughout the seminars, key themes included:

• Understanding the human experience
• Empathy and inclusive perspectives
• Engaging with knowledge and ideas
• The importance of intercultural dialogue

These conversations encouraged reflection, learning, and a deeper understanding of how individuals can contribute positively to their communities.

A special session was also held with GRFS mentors, focusing on mentorship, communication, and human-centered approaches to guidance.

This well-attended program created a meaningful space for both academic and social growth.

Thank you Respect Graduate School for your valuable partnership and contributions.

We look forward to continuing impactful collaborations together

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This initiative will bring together newcomer youth (ages 12–18) through a 4-part seminar series focused on:

Human rights awareness
Mental well-being and confidence
Media and communication skills
Youth leadership and community engagement

Through this program, we aim to create a safe and supportive space where young people can build confidence, understand their rights, and actively contribute to their communities.

We sincerely thank Human Rights Internet for supporting grassroots, community-driven initiatives and for investing in youth empowerment

The post Project Announcement – Empowered Voices 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.

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It was a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen our mentoring approach together.
Through collaboration and reflection, we continue to grow and better support the individuals we serve.

The post Mentor Convention appeared first on GRFS.

The post Mentor Convention appeared first on GRFS.

This international exchange helped strengthen our mentorship capacity, build new friendships, and bring valuable insights back to our youth programs in Canada.

We are proud of our mentors for representing GRFS with dedication and professionalism.

The post GRFS Mentors in Chicago appeared first on GRFS.