Skip to content

Richmond’s youth leaders celebrate achievements through virtual ceremony

Six members of Youth Now, a made-in-Richmond youth leadership program organized by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives, will have a virtual graduation ceremony on Oct. 10.

Six members of Youth Now, a made-in-Richmond youth leadership program organized by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives, will have a virtual graduation ceremony on Oct. 10.

The year-long program allows youth to gain experience in community development and engagement through a series of conferences, covering topics like strategic planning and fund development.

Anthony Dy Ning, a member of the Youth Now Cohort and a second-year student at the Sauder School of Business, said he has no idea what the ceremony will look like, but is looking forward to it nonetheless. 

Program participants are also required to complete a group project to tackle a local community issue and raise awareness to other Richmondites, said Ning, adding that this year they created an online post to show their gratitude to healthcare workers. 

According to another group member, Rachel Ling, the project idea hit them after hearing “touching” stories from one of their team members who is working as a registered nurse during COVID-19. 

Ling, who is now working as an acupuncturist in Richmond, said she came across the program while getting into BC’s health regulatory board and hoping to learn more about the board.

“Before I thought leadership was a very vague concept and often I take good leaders for granted,” said Ling.

“But through those projects, I realize that brilliant leadership skills come with lots of practice and many lessons. 

“Becoming a good leader is more like a journey rather than gaining the skills overnight.” said Ling.