Saanich Opens Applications for WYLD Summer Leadership Program

Applications are officially open for the WYLD summer leadership program in Saanich, a mentorship initiative designed to empower youth by enhancing their leadership and job skills. This program, which stands for Willing Youth Leading Diversely, is specifically aimed at students completing Grade 8 in June 2026. The application window runs from March 1 to April 1, 2024, providing a valuable opportunity for interested candidates.

Successful applicants will gain hands-on experience through guided placements alongside staff mentors in various community recreation programs. These placements will occur at notable locations, including Saanich Commonwealth Place and Gordon Head Recreation Centre. Participants must be flexible and available to work at any designated location throughout the summer.

Given the high demand for this program and its limited mentorship capacity, only a select number of spots are available. Initially, up to 30 youth will be accepted in the first wave, with an additional 15 participants offered placements in the second wave. Last year, the program attracted over 100 applications, highlighting its popularity and the interest among local youth.

This initiative is particularly beneficial for those exploring career paths in fields such as recreation, teaching, early childhood education, social work, counselling, and healthcare. Organizers emphasize the program’s role in providing practical experience and mentorship opportunities that can significantly enhance participants’ future career prospects.

Those selected for interviews will be notified via email, with interviews scheduled from April 7 to April 10, 2024, between 16:00 and 21:00 at Saanich Commonwealth Place. For accepted participants, mandatory training sessions will commence on June 3, 2024, at Gordon Head Recreation Centre, with additional training sessions planned throughout June and July. Successful applicants will receive updates about their placements by April 15, 2024.

For further details about the program and application process, interested candidates can visit Saanich’s park and recreation web page or contact the WYLD program coordinator, Maddie Parks, at [email protected].