Peace by Piece 2023: An Impactful Youth Summit in Nature
Our YMCA of Greater Toronto Youth programs recently hosted the Peace by Piece Youth Summit at the Humber Arboretum in Toronto's west end. Over 70 youth from the Newcomer Youth Leadership Development program (NYLD) joined us for a day filled with reflection, learning, and refreshing snacks.
Peace by Piece is an annual youth summit that matches the YMCA peace week worldwide. This event aims to encourage YMCA of Greater Toronto youth to think and work toward peace together, and engage in activism. This year's theme centered around Indigenous reconciliation and the environment — a call to embrace harmony with nature and one another, aligned with the YMCA World Vision 2030 which calls for working toward a sustainable planet and a just world.
This year’s youth summit included a spoken-word activity that encouraged youth to speak about the negative impacts of pollution on their environment; youth participated in hands-on science experiments, learned about photography from an Indigenous speaker, and much more. A special thank you goes to our workshop facilitators who expressed this year's theme in interactive workshops and collaborative creative projects.
New Tradition Music with Juno-nominated Beny Esguerra
Beny Esguerra kicked off the event with his new traditional tunes, setting a unique tone for the event. He created a cultural atmosphere through singing, writing, and inviting youth to use their voices. Youth exercised their writing skills and participated in a spoken word session, where their creativity took the theme to centre stage.
Doves of Peace with Muse Arts TO
Under the guidance of Paola Gomez from Muse Arts TO, youth took part in the Doves of Peace workshop. Through oil pastels on canvas, they translated their visions of peace into beautiful doves. The workshop progressed into discussions about peace, touching on "mutual respect," being with "friends and family," and addressing global conflicts. The doves, decorated with symbols and bold words like “no war,” expressed the group’s hope for change.
Climate Change and Renewables with Relay Education
Relay Education took the stage, focusing on climate change and renewable energy. Irene, the workshop facilitator, shared insights on the impacts of climate change on our lives, from food to housing. The workshop included interactive science experiments on solar and wind energy, sparking excitement and curiosity. The youth’s engagement showed a commitment to building a sustainable future.
Ways of Seeing with Kate Dalton
Kate's photography workshop, "Ways of Seeing," promoted communication and connection. Youth explored intentional ways of appreciating their surroundings, learned photography basics, looked at Indigenous artwork, and explored the stories behind each photograph. Ready to apply their newfound skills, our NYLD youth were excited to start practicing right away.
The 2023 Peace by Piece Youth Summit was a perfect blend of different teachings we experience and learn every day at the Y, aiming for a better world. Thanks to Beny Esguerra, Muse Arts TO, Relay Education, and Kate Dalton for making the day great and helping youth grow. Here's to spreading peace, making connections, and understanding one another better!
