GUELPH, ON, - The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is excited to announce the 2024 young leaders of change who have begun their leadership learning journey together through the Rural Change Makers (RCM) program.
“We have another incredible group of passionate emerging leaders this year each with unique perspectives and lived experiences. 2024 participants in the program span northern, southwestern, central and eastern Ontario. They range in age from 18 to 35 years old and are at various stages in their lives and careers, but all at the beginning of this leadership experience of change and growth,” says Melanie Bidiuk, ROI Communications and RCM Program Manager. “I am excited to see how we come together, lead and how we give back in our communities.”
“With fresh perspectives, diverse skills and boundless passion, these young leaders will spark change, inspire action and ensure their communities thrive and prosper for generations to come,” says Ellen Sinclair, Executive Director, Rural Ontario Institute.
This transformative program will equip emerging leaders throughout rural and northern Ontario with skills to mobilize community-led action on local priorities. More than 20 regional partners and collectives are coming alongside these leaders including: Opiikapawiin Services LP ᐅᐱᑲᐸᐃᐧᐣ ᐃᐧᒋᐦᐃᐁᐧᐃᐧᓇᐣ (OSLP) - representing a collective of 24 First Nations in northwestern Ontario, Community Futures Huron, Trenval Business Development Corporation, Minden Hills/Haliburton Collective - representing over 20 leaders, experts, business owners, CFDC’s, educators, organizations and farmers, Four County Labour Market Planning Board and Renfrew County alongside Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation.
“We believe the future belongs to our young leaders. First Nations peoples and communities are calling upon our young leaders to take a bold step forward - to lead, influence and guide the sustainable and prosperous growth of our communities and homelands,” said Laura Calmwind, Opiikapawiin Services LP Training Manager.
“Farm Credit Canada is proud to support the Rural Change Makers program, which aligns closely with our commitment to fostering youth leadership, innovation, and economic resiliency in rural and agricultural communities,” said Perry Wilson, FCC Senior Vice-President. “This program empowers young leaders, including those from Indigenous and remote communities, to build connections, develop essential skills, and drive meaningful change. By investing in initiatives like this, we’re not only supporting the next generation of rural leaders but also strengthening the future of Canada’s agricultural sector.”
“We are so excited to be a partner and supporter of this program,” says Dana Soucie, Executive Director, Four County Labour Market Planning Board. “Programs like Rural Change Makers are essential to the sustainability of our communities as they are developing leaders with innovative and collaborative tools to achieve maximum impact and success.”
"Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation, along with the County of Renfrew, are thrilled to support the 2024 cohort of the Rural Change Makers program. These young leaders bring a wealth of fresh ideas, diverse experiences, and a shared commitment to driving positive change in their communities. We are confident that their participation in this transformative program will not only enhance their leadership skills but also foster innovative solutions to local challenges. Together, we look forward to seeing the impactful contributions they will make in Renfrew County and beyond," says Cyndy Phillips, Executive Director, Renfrew County CFDC.
“Congratulations to the 2024 Rural Change Makers as you work to create positive, grassroots change in communities across the province. Your hard work ensures that diverse voices are heard and valued, and that passion and dedication can lead to incredible things,” said Lisa Hunter, Ontario Mutual Insurance Association Marketing & Communications Manager.
"At Trenval, we believe that investing in leadership development for young people is essential for fostering a thriving and sustainable future. Leadership skills empower youth to think critically, collaborate effectively, and take initiative—skills that are not only vital for their personal growth but also for the growth of our communities. By supporting programs that nurture these skills, we are creating the leaders of tomorrow, capable of driving innovation, inclusivity, and positive change in the communities we serve. Trenval is thrilled to be a part of this year's Rural Change Maker program,” said Amber Darling, Trenval Executive Director.
Over the course of the program Change Makers will participate in a series of developmental and experiential Learning Labs. They will complete community and self-assessments, establish planning committees that inform the program, and develop Community Economic Development SMART Action Plans to guide their community projects as they build their preferred futures and create strong rural communities.
Source : Rural Ontario Institute