Queen’s University hosted MPP Sophie Kiwala and the Premier’s Council on Youth Opportunities for an announcement of more than $3.3 million in provincial funding for the new Youth Mentorship Program, including $380,000 directed to programs in Kingston.

The funding announcement, made in Goodes Hall Commons at Queen’s School of Business, is part of the province’s expanded Youth Action Plan. The mentorship program will directly support at-risk youth in Kingston, through agencies such as the YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club.

“I’m pleased that the government is expanding and enhancing the Ontario Youth Action Plan to serve additional communities like Kingston,” Ms. Kiwala said. “The new Youth Mentorship Program will focus on creating mentorship programming that is focused on high-risk youth, and that is locally based and culturally relevant in our community to help them reach their full potential.”

Prior to the announcement, Ms. Kiwala met with the members of the Premier’s Council, a group of 25 youth (ages 16-25), young professionals and leaders who advise the premier and the minister of children and youth services on issues affecting youth and how to improve programs and services for youth. The group met to talk about local initiatives and how the Kingston region can be best represented and served. 

Queen’s student Darian Doblej, Artsci’18, is a member of the Premier’s Council, and attended the meeting and announcement.

“It's great, I love the Premier's Council. It's important that those who have traditionally been left out of the decision-making process are participating through our outreach and listening tours,” he says. “It really helps us advise on policy that works for at-risk youth across Ontario.”