Saanich Opens Applications for Youth Leadership Summer Program

Applications are now open for the summer leadership program in Saanich, known as the WYLD (Willing Youth Leading Diversely). This mentorship initiative is designed to equip young participants with essential leadership and job skills while they engage with children in community recreation programs. The program targets students who are finishing Grade 8 in June 2026.

Individuals interested in applying can do so from March 1 to April 1. Successful applicants will receive guided placements that allow them to work alongside experienced staff mentors in various programs, including summer camps, neighbourhood playground activities, and recreation centre initiatives. These placements will occur at the Saanich Commonwealth Place and Gordon Head Recreation Centre. Participants must be available to work at any of these locations throughout the summer.

Limited Spots Available for Aspiring Leaders

Due to high demand and limited mentorship capacity, the WYLD program can accept only a finite number of participants. Initially, up to 30 youth will be welcomed in the first wave, with an additional 15 participants moving on to the second wave. Last summer, the program garnered significant interest, receiving over 100 applications. Organizers emphasize that the initiative provides valuable exposure to potential careers in areas such as recreation, teaching, early childhood education, social work, counselling, and health care.

Selected applicants for interviews will be informed via email. These interviews are scheduled to take place from April 7 to 10, 2026, between 16:00 and 21:00 at the Saanich Commonwealth Place, located at 4636 Elk Lake Drive. Those who are accepted into the program will be required to attend mandatory training sessions, which commence on June 3 at the Gordon Head Recreation Centre (4100 Lambrick Way). Additional training sessions will also be scheduled throughout June and July.

Successful applicants will receive notifications about their placements by April 15. For further details, applicants can visit Saanich’s park and recreation webpage or reach out to the WYLD program coordinator, Maddie Parks, at [email protected]. This initiative not only fosters leadership qualities among youth but also enhances community engagement through recreational activities.