The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is thrilled to announce that 32 emerging rural leaders have embarked on their leadership journey through the Rural Change Makers (RCM) program this fall. This program is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to mobilize community-led action on local priorities.
Throughout the year-long program, participants will engage in developmental training sessions, experiential gatherings, and complete self-assessments. They will also establish planning committees for local activities and develop a Youth Summit to conclude the program in the Fall of 2024.
The RCM program has three primary goals:
- To develop the leadership skills and knowledge of emerging rural leaders in Ontario.
- To support community-led action on local priorities.
- To build a network of rural leaders committed to making a difference in their communities.
The 2023 RCM program comprises a diverse group of young leaders from various backgrounds and communities across rural Ontario. These young leaders are passionate about making a difference in their communities and are dedicated to building a brighter future for rural Ontario.
The 2023 Rural Change Makers program, introduced by the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI), is an exciting initiative aimed at empowering young leaders from rural and northern Ontario. Here is an overview of the 32 emerging rural leaders and their diverse backgrounds and passions:
- Amanda Henderson (Brant County): A Master Beekeeper passionate about lifelong learning and community building.
- Amanda Kiezebrink (Durham Region): A third-generation farmer and Marine Engineering veteran focused on the future of family farming.
- Carly Knibutat (Seaforth): A Mechanical Engineering Graduate with a passion for positive change and rural community resiliency.
- Carrie Lyon (Bearskin Lake First Nation): Engaged in transmission line maintenance and passionate about healthy lifestyles, social engagement, and art.
- Daisy Mckay (Sachigo Lake): Involved in the Family Well-Being Program and passionate about youth and Indigenous culture.
- Dakota Derosier (Wabigoon Lake Ojibwee Nation): A Community Liaison with a focus on working with communities, food security, agriculture, and vertical farming.
- Danika Tait (Huron County): A Business Marketing student with over 12 years of economic development experience, passionate about addressing the youth gap.
- Ezra Kamenawatamin (Bearskin Lake): Actively engaged in community work with a passion for teaching and coordinating youth sports.
- Gagandeepsingh Gill (Timmins): A Student Ambassador focused on bridging the cultural gap for newcomers and creating understanding and inclusivity.
- Hannah Field (Bayfield): A Registered Early Childhood Educator leading an entrepreneurial pursuit, "Trees and Me Forest School," to bring nature to children.
- Hardik Patel (Belleville): Founder of the Belleville International Association and a passionate advocate for sustainability and diversity.
- Jillian Bjelan (Huron County): An Executive Assistant with a passion for social justice and creating cohesive community hubs.
- Jobby Strang (Poplar Hill First Nation): Bringing 3 years' experience at Wataynikaneyap Power and advocating for more access to education in his remote northern community.
- Josie Linton (North Durham Region): A third-generation farmer and On Farm Program Coordinator passionate about agriculture and education.
- Kayla Portugie (Timmins): A Financial Services Officer and Tutor with a focus on safety and harm reduction in community parks.
- Kimberley Lawlor (Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh): An Agronomy Manager dedicated to giving back to her community and promoting its success.
- Kisha Kakegamic (Thunder Bay): Involved in Dene Cree Designs Inc. with a passion for becoming a leader and sharing knowledge.
- Krystal Brideau (Hensall): A Registered Nurse and Diabetes Educator passionate about conservation and promoting mini ecosystems.
- Lawna Atkins (Durham): Engaged with the Indigenous Friends Association and passionate about mental health support and career development.
- Luanne McGregor (Kippen): A Jr Logistics Coordinator passionate about encouraging youth to take advantage of opportunities in her community.
- Mabe Kyle (Brant County): An Expressive Arts Therapist in Training and Co-founder of the Rural Ontario Community for Queer Youth (ROCQY).
- Mahbuba Airin (Guelph): A Master's student passionate about the bond between food and people and its cultural significance.
- Martha Kataquapit (Attawapiskat First Nation): Committed to lifelong learning and giving back to her community.
- Mary Fiddler (Sandy Lake First Nation): Focused on working with vulnerable youth aging out of Child Protective Services care.
- Moriano Owen (Poplar Hill First Nation): A General Arts & Science Program student with a passion for aviation science and learning.
- Rainelle Keeper (Pikangikum First Nation): A Community Liaison passionate about housing and economic development.
- Raven Chikane (Weagamow Lake): Actively involved in community initiatives and interested in starting a prevention program for children and youth.
- Sebastian Fortin (Timmins): Passionate about art, supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and creating healthy spaces.
- Shayne McGregor (Cameron): An Addiction and Mental Health Worker and founder of AndThenIWasFree, focused on supporting struggling community members.
- Storm McKay (Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation): Engaged in energy consumption and interested in starting a ball hockey league in his community.
- Takudzwanashe Mundenga (Waterloo): A specialist in International Development passionate about sustainability, environmental conservation, and community well-being.
- Tyron Moose (Poplar Hill First Nation): A Computer Science university student passionate about learning, community, and continuing education.
These young leaders represent a diverse array of talents and interests and are committed to making positive changes in their rural communities in Ontario. The Rural Change Makers program is a platform for them to grow, learn, and drive meaningful and lasting change.