Roots of success
Summerside business match-making program for youth
A program that matches youth with local businesses, and transforms uncertainty into confidence, succeeded beyond expectations at the Credit Union Place on Saturday. Now in its second year, the Young Leaders Program helps 12 to 15 year olds grow into successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Coordinator Jason “lefty” Gallant, along with Sarah Wilson, said the program is built to help the next generation gain an early insight into what it takes to be a leader in the business world. “I worked in my family business for 20 years, before founding my own, so I wanted the next generation to get off on the right foot and give them some core skills that are necessary to succeed,” explained Gallant. Showing their support were 25 local businesses with 32 Young Leaders acting as their face, along with younger club members who were being mentored in a fun and interactive way.
“Our Young Leaders Program goes and visits different businesses throughout the summer, so they learn about entrepreneurship and other essential skills. At the end we put on a big finale where each young leader represents their business and gets to work on their communication skills while explaining what they do,” said Gallant.
Local artist, Anna Doran, 13, had canvasses of living, breathing pieces of art, brought to life by the brilliant smiles the children wore after getting their faces painted. Doran has been honing her craft with the Young Leaders Program over the summer, and now runs her own business called Anna’s Colourful Creations.
“I do children’s parties and normally get between 20 to 300 people who want their faces painted,” said Doran.
Last year, the pilot program that is monitored by Chelsea Moulins and Scott Holmes over the summer attracted more than 500 visitors to the booths and this year appeared even more promising. Service manager of Enman’s Audio Video Unlimited, Adam Campbell, was one of the 25 booths at the event.
“It’s really important to show the youth that there are jobs here in the community and that they don’t have to leave P.E.I.,” said Campbell. Logan Reese, 15, was helping Campbell and has plans to follow in his footsteps. Reese made part of the video that was on display at their booth, showcasing the city of Summerside.