Two of three scholarships to attend Union of BC Municipalities Convention awarded to Squamish youth

Two of three youth scholarships to attend the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention have been awarded to Squamish youth. Howe Sound Secondary grade 12 student Jon Gill and Quest University Canada fourth-year student Maia du Toit have been chosen to attend the upcoming UBCM Convention in Vancouver to gain direct exposure and insight into local government affairs. The scholarships are being provided by the Lower Mainland Local Government Association (LMLGA). The theme of this year’s conference is Resiliency and Change, and takes place September 23 to 27, 2019.

“This is an incredible chance for youth to learn about current affairs, advocacy and policy development for topics that impact local government, and we are very proud of our youth who have taken an interest in the opportunity,” says District of Squamish Councillor and LMLGA Board Member Jenna Stoner. “Jon and Maia have demonstrated both passion and leadership and we look forward to welcoming them next week.”

Each student will be paired with a mentor from within the LMLGA board of directors.

“Taking part in an experience such as this would be a great opportunity for me to explore how communities react to, process, and act on regional situations, as well as situations that can impact people around the country and globe,” writes Gill in his scholarship application. “I believe that witnessing how local governments can make an impact from regional origins in my corner of the world would both greatly enrich my understanding of government as well as fill me with confidence in moving forward in my life by fully understanding my own home and community.”

In her application, du Toit writes, “I am interested in attending this Convention as I am currently studying the effects of healthcare, criminal justice, and housing policies on women, particularly those that are pregnant and experiencing addiction. I believe that attending the Convention would be transformative for the direction of both my academic endeavours and advocacy for pregnant women in the Lower Mainland.”

The UBCM was formed to represent and serve all local governments in B.C. by advocating for common interests, policy development and training. Held annually, the UBCM Convention is the primary forum for UBCM policy-making, providing an opportunity for local governments of all sizes and areas within B.C. to share their perspectives and knowledge. District of Squamish Council will be in attendance at UBCM. 

To learn more about the UBCM and the 2019 Convention visit https://www.ubcm.ca/EN/main/convention/2019-convention.html

September 20, 2019

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