YLC Director’s Report

In the last week of school before the summer break, Calgary youth age 15-18 joined together to brainstorm ways to make positive social change in the world. From June 20-24th, the Werklund Youth Leadership Center (YLC) hosted an elite team of leadership mentors from the Leadership Institute of Harvard College (the undergraduate school at Harvard University). Harvard Youth Leads the Change (ironically also known as the YLC) was offered free to students across the city as well as exchange students from China. The symposium was sponsored by the Werklund YLC as a shining example of Socially Empowered Learning.

According to YLC Director, Brittany Harker Martin, “Socially Empowered Learning is designed to offer group-based, agency-rich opportunities for individuals to provide input, ideas, and create solutions to real-world issues for a positive social impact.” Martin’s research shows that social empowerment has a direct, positive effect on intellectual engagement and is a motivating factor that draws students into their learning. “Benefits of social empowerment include increased entrepreneurial spirit, which goes beyond the classroom,” Martin explains. “My research extends to post-secondary institutes and the workplace through a research collaboration with Harvard’s Leadership Institute.”

During the week-long conference, youth had the opportunity to voice their opinions about social issues and brainstorm possible solutions. They then participated in a series of design-based workshops to bring their ideas to reality. One student remarked, “I’ve always wanted to do something about this. Now I know how.” The conference also included opportunities for youth to learn about their passions and strengths, and develop core leadership skills. Each departed with smiles, new friends, and a certificate co-branded by the Werklund YLC and Harvard YLC.