I.M.P.A.C.T. Youth Forum Reaches New Heights
Youth from around the world came together to make an IMPACT.
An incredible 1,780 participants took part in the 2nd Annual Youth in Policing (YIP) I.M.P.A.C.T. Forum on February 5. Participants logged on from Bangladesh, Egypt, China, Ethiopia, Jamaica, Germany, Guyana, India, Italy, Iran, Lebanon, Pakistan, Sudan, South Korea, Syria, Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates, the United States, and across Canada for the global Youth Forum. The event will undoubtedly inspire change not just in our communities, but all over the world.
DRPS Chief Todd Rollauer provided opening remarks to kick off the forum. He highlighted this year’s theme on motivation by discussing the importance of persevering in the face of adversity and rising to everyday challenges that have been magnified by the ongoing pandemic. Participants further developed on this theme through workshops hosted by guest speakers.
The forum welcomed Sarah Wells, a Pan Am silver medalist who spoke about the pursuit of excellence. Dillon Mendes, the Co-founder of Pickwaste, who highlighted the impact someone can have on their community. Finally, Mark Black, a double-lung and heart transplant recipient turned four-time marathon runner, spoke about pushing past your perceived limits.
Through these workshops, participants learned the importance of perseverance, and how motivation towards a vision can bring you closer to living proudly and with no regrets. The event also featured a workshop with the Business Advisory Centre Durham where participants gained insight on running an organization.
Participants were inspired through a video developed by YIP students who created the 'Beauty of Idea’ Initiative which invited youth to submit their ideas for Community Impact Initiatives. The YIP Team reviewed 19 different initiatives and will follow up and offer support for the top three selected initiatives.
The virtual event received positive feedback from participants and YIP would like to thank the various community partners who supported this forum, including the Town of Whitby, the City of Oshawa, Exotic Knacks, the Business Advisory Centre for Durham, Domino’s Pizza, McDonald’s, Booster Juice and Shoppers Drug Mart.
The DRPS YIP program is reaching more youth than ever. The YIP program will be hiring for the Summer Initiative this month so check out Website: www.drps.ca/yip or contact youthinpolicing@drps.ca for more information.
