13 Students Graduate From YLA Programme
Thirteen students from Family Centre’s Youth Leadership Academy graduated as the programme’s 9th cohort, completing a four-year journey that began in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
A spokesperson said, “In an inspiring and emotional ceremony hosted at Family Centre’s Sunshine League House location, 13 students from Family Centre’s Youth Leadership Academy [YLA] completed their four-year leadership journey and graduated as the programme’s 9th cohort. What set this group apart was not only their commitment and growth, but also their unique path, one that began in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Deneca Zuill, Family Centre Community Team Leader and Lead Coordinator of Youth Leadership Academy, explains, “Family Centre’s Youth Leadership Academy programme begins at Dellwood in M3 and continues through the high school years. Youth are recommended for this programme due to their leadership potential as well as the risk factors they face due to life’s circumstances.
“Through exposure to opportunities, young people learn that leadership is not just a position, it is about taking action. They learn the importance of their voices, are exposed to opportunities, and are mentored and supported by Family Centre Community Support Workers to achieve their short and long-term goals.”
A spokesperson added, “During the graduation celebration, a slideshow reminded attendees that these young leaders entered the programme during a time defined by mask-wearing, virtual sessions, and small group activities. Despite the uncertainty and fatigue of the time, this group embraced every online and in-person opportunity the programme provided from the very beginning, demonstrating resilience, curiosity, and consistent engagement.”
“They showed up, stayed present, and engaged wholeheartedly, reinvigorating our team as much as we hoped to inspire them,” said Leila Wadson, Family Centre’s Director of Community Services.
A spokesperson added, “Over four years, these youth embodied YLA’s definition of leadership by bravely stepping outside their comfort zones to grow personally and support others through both triumphs and challenges. Whether navigating academic and personal obstacles, taking initiative, engaging in service projects, exploring career pathways, or consistently showing up for mentorship sessions, they demonstrated resilience and growth throughout their journeys.
“During the certificate ceremony, each graduate’s leadership journey was recognized. YLA workers highlighted not only the gifts and accomplishments of each of the young people, but also their perseverance in the face of adversity, their ability to transform personal challenges into purpose, and their deepened sense of empathy and self-awareness.”
As Family Centre’s Community Team Leader Deneca Zuill shared, “Each graduate encountered significant obstacles throughout their high school years that could have easily derailed their progress. Yet, with determination and the unwavering support of their communities, they confronted those challenges head-on and defied the odds.”
Upon receiving their certificates, each graduate was given the opportunity to speak. In these moments, youth expressed heartfelt gratitude for the programme and its staff, sharing how their YLA workers had supported them through some of their most difficult times and had become extended members of their families.
One YLA student shared, “Youth Leadership Academy has helped me to get out of my shell. When I first started the programme, I was going through some struggles. I feel as if I wouldn’t be standing here today if it wasn’t for YLA. So, thank you to everyone in YLA for helping me to stand where I stand today.”
The event also paid tribute to the families and community partners who supported the cohort’s success. Leila Wadson emphasized that supporting youth requires a collective effort: “To the parents and caregivers: thank you for trusting us with your teens and allowing us to be part of your team.”
She also acknowledged the importance of partnerships: “YLA would not be what it is without our community partners. Thank you for linking arms with us to help young people experience the power and importance of community.”
A spokesperson added, “The YLA graduation is far more than the presentation of certificates, it is a ceremony that brings the community together to recognize the deep personal and collective growth that young people have experienced over four years in the programme.
“In this spirit, it was especially powerful to welcome guest speaker Seon Tatem, who encouraged graduates to speak positively to themselves, particularly in the face of overwhelming hardship. His message reminded attendees that self-affirmation is key to unlocking one’s gifts, honouring personal potential, and contributing meaningfully to community.
“As a slideshow of programme highlights played, Quinn Outerbridge gave a moving performance of “Rise Up” by Andra Day, a song that held special meaning for this cohort. The strength of her voice and the emotional connection to the moment moved many in the audience to tears.
“There could have been no better way to honour each graduate, all of whom leave YLA not only with new skills, but with a clearer sense of who they are, what they value, and how they can contribute to the world around them. As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: the future is brighter because of these young leaders. They are resilient, courageous, and ready for what comes next.”
