Teen Advisory Committee Hosts Teen Forum

The inaugural Teen Forum, hosted by the Teen Advisory Committee, took place Friday, May 10, 2024, in Embrun, marking a significant milestone in fostering youth engagement within our community. With 70 enthusiastic participants from Russell High School and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School, the event proved to be an inspiring platform for dialogue and collaboration. Before the summer, students from École secondaire catholique d’Embrun will have the opportunity to contribute their voices to the conversation.

The Teen Forum provided a unique opportunity for local teens to voice their opinions and discuss actionable strategies to enhance the experiences of young people in our community. Throughout the day, attendees engaged in lively discussions and visited informational booths hosted by key community organizations, including the Russell Township Fire Services, Russell Township Public Library, Eastern Champlain Youth Wellness Hub, and Russell Township Parks and Recreation & Communication staff.

One of the highlights of the event was the series of workshops led by peers, offering valuable insights and fostering leadership skills among the youth participants. Attendees were treated to inspiring speeches from representatives of YouthSpeak, an organization dedicated to empowering youth through interactive presentations and meaningful conversations.

The Teen Forum also served as a platform for brainstorming ideas related to communication, recreation, transit, and library services within Russell Township. By actively involving the youth in shaping the future of our community, the event exemplified the Township's commitment to inclusivity and youth empowerment.

"We are thrilled with the success of the Teen Forum and the enthusiastic participation from our local teens," said Councillor Lisa Deacon, Chair of the Teen Advisory Committee. "Their voices are invaluable in driving positive change and shaping the future of Russell Township."

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated student volunteers whose tireless efforts made the Teen Forum a resounding success. Their commitment to community involvement exemplifies the spirit of Russell Township's youth. Without their invaluable contributions, the planning and execution of this event would not have been possible. Their passion and dedication have truly made a difference, leaving a lasting impact on our community.

The event concluded with a sense of optimism and empowerment, as participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to their community. The Teen Advisory Committee looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to provide platforms for youth engagement in the future.

With the success of the Teen Forum, Russell Township reaffirms its commitment to youth engagement and empowerment. The Teen Advisory Committee invites interested teens to join their ranks and be part of shaping the future of our community. Positions are still available on the committee, offering a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference. For more information on how to get involved, please contact clerk.greffe@russell.ca.