Birthday Party for Change

Kat, a Free The Children Youth Speaker, points out Kenya on a globe

For his 9th birthday party, he invited a Free The Children Youth Speaker to share her knowledge on social issues. Samuel also suggested that each of his guests, instead of bringing a birthday present for him, make a donation towards buying two or three goats for families in a developing country to make sure that their children can be free from child labour and attend school.

A powerful speech and a large cake later, Samuel achieved his goal and more! Receiving $364 dollars in donations, Samuel will be able to purchase seven goats to give impoverished children in Africa a brighter future through the Adopt a Village: Alternative Income campaign.

Samuel is a shining example of selflessness, generosity, and the power of young people to change the world. When’s your birthday?

Regional Updates

British Columbia

Marica and Amanda (left and right), Burnaby District Student Advisory Council Vice-President and President, with the fruit of their “Burnaby Idol” fundraising event: a $1,500 cheque for Free The Children projects! Hilary (centre), British Columbia Regional Network Coordinator with Free The Children, also attended the event.”

Hilary here, reporting the latest news from British Columbia. Recently, Burnaby students showed their singing talents and passion for action by putting on a “Burnaby Idol” fundraising event.

This amazing event was coordinated by Burnaby's District Student Advisory Council. Each of Burnaby's eight high schools sent a representative to the final round. The winner was Grade 8 student Brianna Lee Karran, representing Byrne Creek Secondary. Brainna received the top prize—eight hours recording time and the coveted Burnaby Idol title!

~Hilary and Emily
hilary@freethechildren.com
emily@freethechildren.com

Atlantic Canada

Hi friends,

Student delegates learn about the influence of the media on our perception

Last month, representatives from more than 60 schools around Nova Scotia came together for the 3rd Annual Global Awareness Youth Conference, organized by the Youth in Action group at the Halifax Grammar School.

The focus of the conference was “Media in a Global Society.” The conference examined how the media influences our perceptions of international issues and, consequently, the issues themselves. This conference clearly illustrated that knowledge is power and education is key to affecting positive social change both locally and internationally.

~Erin
erin@freethechildren.com

Québec

Hey Youth in Action!

Spring is definitely a month of energy and inspiration! Here in Québec, that energy is flowing!
The Study, a Montreal high school, is kicking off the spring season with their “Youth in Action Month”! The passion and energy that the youth demonstrated was certainly inspiring.

Speaking of inspiring, Royal West Academy, will combine raising awareness, fundraising for Adopt a Village, and fun this month in their annual Film Festival. With videos made by students from Royal West and other local schools, the festival is always creative, educational, and enjoyable!

I’m blown away by all of the action that you are taking! Keep it up, and keep me posted.

~Jaclyn
jaclyn@freethechildren.com