GUELPH, Ontario – One Day or Day One. You Decide.
That’s the powerful message that will reach thousands of students at the Upper Grand District School Board’s Empowerment Day.
Empowerment Day was initiated and developed by two passionate students from the Drayton Heights PS Student Council in 2015. DHPS Student Council decided to continue this annual event and each year invites students in grades 5 to 8 from all over the UGDSB.
World-renowned motivational speakers, presenters, and performers are brought together to share inspiring messages with Upper Grand youth. Through this experience, students within the UGDSB learn that they can make a positive difference in their communities, and beyond.
This year, 5,000 students will come together for a powerful day of inspiration and empowerment, and bring that passion back to their school communities.
Special guests this year include:
Mike Downie – Co-creator of Secret Path. Mike and his brother Gord Downie vowed to tell the world the story of Chanie Wenjack, an Ojibway boy who died while running away from his residential school.
Jen Bricker – A remarkable gymnast and aerialist born without legs and with her heart on the opposite side of her chest. Jen has lived her life by one simple rule: Never say ‘can’t.’
Michel Chikwanine – Former child soldier and author. Michel grew up amid the terror of war and now inspires people to believe in their ability to make a difference.
A special mystery guest!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday May 3, 2018
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Sleeman Centre, 50 Woolwich St, Guelph
Media are invited to attend. Interviews with students involved in organizing Empowerment Day and special guests speakers can be arranged.
Follow along on Twitter using the hashtag #EmpowerUG.
*A previous version of this story listed the Neema Children’s Choir as a special guest. Unfortunately, the choir will no longer be able to attend.
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Media contact:
Heather Loney, Communications and Community Engagement Officer
Upper Grand District School Board
519-822-4420 ext.725
Email Heather Loney
Megan Sicoli, Administrative Officer, Communications
Upper Grand District School Board
519-822-4420 ext.764
Email Megan Sicoli