GUELPH – A program called Leaders of Today is providing a class of Grade 7 and 8 students at Wellington Hall Academy the chance to share the stories about the change they wish to see in their communities through the issues that matter to them.
Kavya Yoganathan, a local artistic director and media artist, saw the need to create a space for diverse youth in her community to come together and share stories through the powerful medium of film and photography.
This program enhances the artistic skills that many young people already engage with on a daily basis to highlight the personal and community social justice potential of these mediums.
Catherine Huntley, the director of Wellington Hall Academy commented on the progress she’s seen.
“The Leaders of Today program has not only taught the Grade 8 students about the art of photography, it has challenged them to exercise their creativity and critical thinking skills, helped to develop their leadership abilities and increased their confidence when communicating with peers and staff in their school community,” she said.
Sharing ideas
“It has given all students an opportunity to share their ideas and passions in their own unique way.”
Piloted at St. Joseph Catholic School and now Wellington Hall, Yoganathan has great hope of gaining funding to move Leaders of Today into classrooms across the province.
Wellington Hall Academy invites the public to its exhibit on Dec. 11 from 6pm to 9:30pm at 10C Shared Space downtown Guelph, where they will be showcasing photography of the change these students wish to see in their community.
