BGC staff from 57 Clubs across Canada came together for an impactful 2-day training session, aimed at strengthening the facilitation of our Learn On program.
Funded by the Government of Canada, Learn On provides youth aged 13-21 with the academic support and resources they need to overcome systemic barriers and stay on track for educational success.
The event wasn’t just a training session, it was an experience designed to spark new ideas, build connections, and equip staff with tools to empower youth in meaningful ways.
A major highlight of the session was the leadership of Dr. Michael Ungar, a renowned social work scholar and global expert on resilience. Dr. Ungar shared his groundbreaking research on how we can build resilience in young people. His session on nurturing stronger connections and helping youth cope with adversity provided invaluable insights that left staff inspired and motivated to implement these strategies back at their Clubs.
As a family therapist and academic, Dr. Ungar has transformed how we understand the challenges young people face, helping to reshape the way we approach support for those at risk of educational disengagement. His training didn’t just offer theories—it gave Club staff practical tools to foster stronger relationships with youth, ensuring that they have the resilience to thrive.
The training also fostered an environment of collaboration, where staff from across the country could network and exchange ideas. One Club staff member shared, “I really enjoyed getting to know other staff from different Clubs and learning about how each location functions. It was inspiring to brainstorm ideas with other teams who share the same goals.”
The event was packed with hands-on experiences. From reflecting on the program’s past success—nearly 5,000 youth
participants logging over 100,000 hours of programming—to interactive discussions on youth-focused themes like STEM, the two days were a whirlwind of inspiration and learning. Participants also took part in a Photo Voice activity – where participants capture and share photographs that represent their experiences – sparking creativity and fresh perspectives.
BGC Club staff left the training feeling recharged, armed with new strategies and a deeper understanding of the importance of community in their work.
This event made me reflect on how important community is within programs, and that this builds a strong foundation to connect further with participants. It was hugely beneficial to meet face-to-face with other BGC staff to share struggles, successes, and provide feedback and support.
The impact of the training was clear:
- 96% of participants said the session was a valuable use of their time
- 96% reported gaining new ideas that could be applied at their Clubs
- 91% of staff felt more confident in their ability to run successful Learn On programs and support youth in achieving their educational goals
With the Learn On program and the support of experts like Dr. Ungar, BGC Canada is continuing to make a lasting impact on youth across the country. Together, we’re building a future where every young person has the tools they need to succeed, no matter the barriers they face.
