NEWS RELEASE
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT COLLECTIVE
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Families and youth from the Bradford area gathered at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library to celebrate a significant milestone with the inaugural event of the Youth Empowerment Collective. Founded by Francesca Licursi, the Youth Empowerment Collective aims to provide a platform for young individuals to engage, collaborate, and create positive change locally, with a vision to expand its mission nationwide.
The event was a day filled with meaningful activities, including a welcoming address, a proclamation by the Honourable James Leduc, Mayor of Bradford West Gwillimbury, and the flag-raising ceremony conducted by our first-ever Youth Chair, Freddee from Bradford West Gwillimbury.
Among the day’s highlights was the presentation of the first-ever Francine's Hero Awards to Oxford Learning Bradford, which honours remarkable achievements of local businesses and community programs that excel in fostering a profound sense of belonging among young people.
Attendees witnessed the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the youth art exhibit, which will be available for viewing until May 18, 2024. Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to participate in various activities, including a draw for prizes for our talented artists.
The event was made possible by the dedicated support of volunteers, vendors, and sponsors, whose contributions were instrumental in its success. The Youth Empowerment Collective extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who generously gave their time, resources, and expertise to make this event a reality.
Local dignitaries from Bradford and East Gwillimbury also attended the event in support, reaffirming their commitment to empowering youth and fostering positive change within the community.
Call to action
As the Youth Empowerment Collective sets sail on its mission to empower and inspire the youth of Canada, the organization invites individuals, businesses, and community leaders from all corners of the nation to join hands in creating a brighter and more inclusive future for the next generation. Our goal for 2025 is to expand chapters into two more communities, each championed by a local youth chair.
To apply to be the Youth Chair championing your chapter of the Youth Empowerment Collective in your community, visit our website and apply today.
Quotes
“The excitement today at the fl ag raising and the grand opening of the Youth Empowerment Collective was an emotional reminder of how we all need to empower and inspire youth - they are the future of this community and nation.” - The Honourable James Leduc, Mayor of Bradford West Gwillimbury
"The Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library and Cultural Centre is always excited to support and spotlight local arts and culture in our community. We're proud to spotlight the voices and work of young artists, while supporting capacity-building for emerging and inspiring grassroots groups making positive change in BWG." - David di Giovanni, Manager of Cultural Services, Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library
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