Discover how our programs have impacted the lives of young people who feel more committed to themselves, more committed to their community and more committed to the organization. Find out what they have to say about their experience with CWY-JCM.

Amber Sayed

CWY ALUMNI
Innovation Challenge: 2021

As a learning experience and a way to connect with other people, I absolutely loved doing this Innovation Program and I think overall it's something that's really valuable. If there are ways for people to support it, or support CWY, I would encourage people to do so, being somebody who has benefited so much from their help.

Jocelyn Kagige

CWY ALUMNI
Pathways for Indigenous Youth Leaders: Peru 2017

When you put yourself out of your comfort zone, that's how you're going to grow in life, and CWY, having that opportunity really allowed me to grow as well as build meaningful relationships with Indigenous youth from all over.

Aislinn Beaulé

CWY ALUMNI
Bolivia - Canada 2010

I can confidently say that this exchange shaped the decisions I made and the person I am today. It created a deep sensitivity to the importance of intercultural communication which has pushed me in some interesting directions!

Melissa Humphries

CWY-JCM ALUMNI
China- Canada 2005

I learned how to contribute to an international community all the while being a small-town Canadian. I learned that I was far more capable of hard things. I learned that I really loved authentic Chinese food. I learned that no matter where you are from in the world, or what type of upbringing you’ve had, there are similarities existing in us all. With all of that being said, I learned what my zest for life was, and that it was in international development and youth.

Olivier Bouchard

CWY ALUMNI
China- Canada 2003

At the time, a need for a change in my life, mixed with a desire to get away from it all. I didn't really know what to do at school (at Cégep) and I felt that I was stagnating. I needed to do something "radical" and get out of my comfort zone.
I have learned so much and continue to reflect on the achievements of this program, 17 years later, believe it or not. CWY gave me the opportunity to clean up many aspects of my life, but I understood that I had the capacity to seize these kinds of opportunities.

MICHELLE MEDINAA

CWY-JCM ALUMNI
India - Canada 1988

I strongly believe things happen for a reason and the trajectory that this experience put me on created a lifelong learner, volunteer and on a path of making this world a better place.

Not only has my CWY experience given me leadership skills and global awareness, but it has impacted my personal life as well. I have learned to live within my means, prioritize experience over things, and be a parent who has focused on travel to educate my children on equality, equity, acceptance and love.

CHILDREN BELIEVE

CWY-JCM PARTNER

Canada World Youth made valuable contributions in the implementation of Children Believes’ Preventing Irregular Migration in Central America project. They led local women’s safety audits, the development of youth networks as well as the leadership and facilitation of capacity-building such as youth-led regional conferences, forums as well as training about gender equity and prevention of violence. We’re thankful to have had the opportunity to partner with Canada World Youth and enjoyed working with their skillful team.