LOG ON FOR VIRTUAL PROM
High schoolers taking party online
Thousands of high schoolers from every province and territory will be attending a virtual prom on May 22, in lieu of face-to-face festivities.
The virtual prom features social media contests, prize giveaways and a live DJ set by London-born, Juno-winning artists Loud Luxury.
“It was really a student-led initiative from the beginning,” said Steve Woodall, director of client strategy at Student Life Network.
Student Life Network hosts a contest to pay for one school’s prom every year. Woodall said when physical distancing rules were implemented, students who signed up for the regular contest showed interest in a virtual prom.
A nationwide prom committee of students helped organize the event, including local high school senior Mira Gillis, who said she’s excited to see some form of prom still taking place.
“Prom is an event that everyone looks forward to, it’s a milestone so of course when everyone heard the bad news, they were crushed,” said Gillis, a Grade 12 student at Brennan. “But once they heard we’re doing the event, I had my friends texting me saying they would RSVP right away.”
Both Gillis and Woodall said the virtual prom would be an opportunity to cheer up some students who may be struggling during the pandemic.
The event will also raise funds for Kids Help Phone, with event sponsor CIBC donating money for every student who attends.
“Ever since COVID-19, and especially with the tragedies in Nova Scotia, Kids Help Phone’s call volumes have gone through the roof,” said Woodall. “Never has there been a time in our country where their services are more impactful and needed.”
While the circumstances aren’t ideal, Gillis said she is happy to help bring some happiness to other students across Canada with this event.
“It’s bittersweet, it’s not what I thought it would be, but I am glad I can make the most of the situation,” she said. “Prom, graduation, you see these things in the movies. It won’t be everything I wanted it to be, but it’s definitely better than having nothing.”