City of Brandon and Westman Immigrant Services Launch Youth Rise Leadership Program

Brandon, MB – The City of Brandon and Westman Immigrant Services (WIS) is pleased to announce the launch of the Youth Rise Leadership Program, an initiative aimed at empowering and retaining youth through civic engagement and leadership development.

This program, with support from the Urban Alliance on Race Relations, is the first of its kind in Manitoba and will introduce youth from diverse backgrounds to career pathways and opportunities in Brandon. 

Participants will engage in weekly one-on-one sessions with various municipal departments, gaining valuable insight into potential career paths and a deeper understanding of how local government works. They will also take part in interactive activities focused on leadership, communication, and personal growth developing confidence and skills that will serve them well now, and open doors to future opportunities.

“We are thrilled to partner with Westman Immigrant Services to deliver this Youth Rise Leadership Program,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett. “This leadership program initiative will provide young people with diverse backgrounds an opportunity to explore career options and gain real insights into how our City of Brandon is operated, especially through direct interaction with various City departments. Partnering with WIS and Urban Alliance has been a great experience, and we’re excited to see the impact this initiative will have on our future leaders.”

“Youth retention is vital to the long-term strength of our region, and that begins with creating real opportunities for leadership and belonging,” said Enver Naidoo, CEO of WIS. “The Youth Rise Leadership Program is about showing young people especially those from immigrant and diverse backgrounds that they have a future right here in Brandon. We are incredibly grateful for the City’s vision and the leadership of Mayor Fawcett, whose support has made this partnership possible. This initiative reflects what is possible when community organizations and municipalities work together to invest in the next generation.” 

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to both the City of Brandon and Westman Immigrant Services for welcoming the Diversity Youth Fellowship into the community,” said Neethan Shan, Executive Director, Urban Alliance on Race Relations. “This collaboration is a significant step toward empowering local youth and fostering diversity. We are deeply appreciative of the commitment both organizations have shown in creating opportunities for young people to thrive and look forward to seeing the fellowship have a positive impact on the next generation of leaders. Together, we are building a more inclusive, forward-thinking and transformational future for all.”

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City of Brandon Media Contact:

Merrilea Metcalf / m.metcalf@brandon.ca / 204-729-2590

Westman Immigrant Services Media Contact:

Hannah Stollery / hannah@westmanimmigrantservices.ca / 204-821-4605