Article Contributor: Pradit Thapa (Summer Intern, 2023)
As the sun sets on my unforgettable summer internship with Councillor Rowena Santos, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I’ve had while working on two remarkable events: the Teramoto Park Cleanup and the End of Summer Youth Connect. These events not only allowed me to grow as an individual but also provided a platform for our community’s youth to make a meaningful impact
Teramoto Park Cleanup: A Day of Dedication
Throughout my internship, I had the privilege of working closely with Councillor Santos and the remarkable team behind the Teramoto Park Cleanup. On August 8th, 2023, more than 110 enthusiastic young individuals from Brampton gathered at Teramoto Park to participate in a community cleanup organized by Councillor Rowena Santos, our very own Brampton Youth Council, and People Against Littering (PALS). It was a day filled with purpose, determination, and a shared commitment to make our community a better place.
I was deeply involved in the planning and execution of this event, witnessing firsthand the dedication of our youth and their unwavering commitment to positive change. Armed with garbage bags, gloves, and a genuine desire to make a difference, we embarked on a mission to beautify Teramoto Park. The enthusiasm and teamwork displayed by fellow youth were truly inspiring, and it was great to see how passionate they were about creating a cleaner and more beautiful community.
However, the true value of this endeavor extends beyond the immediate results of the cleanup. It is immeasurable in the sense that it instilled in all of us a sense of responsibility and pride in our community. The bonds formed among the participants, the lessons learned about environmental stewardship, and the sense of accomplishment will resonate with us for a lifetime. Working alongside my peers and witnessing their determination reinforced my belief in the power of young people to effect positive change, not only in the community but also in their own lives.
End of Summer Youth Connect: A Day of Learning and Fun
The End of Summer Youth Connect event, held at Brampton City Hall, was another extraordinary opportunity for me to work with Councillor Santos and the Brampton Youth Council. It was a day that marked history, as over 50 Youth Ambassadors from our Youth Council, under the guidance of Councillor Santos, gathered to learn about municipal government and share in the camaraderie of youth.
As the event’s organizer, I was deeply involved in every aspect of its planning and execution. It was pleasant to see the excitement and enthusiasm among our young participants as they explored the world of local governance and civic engagement. We made history by playing the first game of Kahoot in the chamber, all while gaining valuable insights into how our city functions. Laughter filled the room, friendships were forged, and a genuine sense of curiosity about civic engagement was ignited.
I believe that this event was a turning point in the lives of many, including mine, as it underscored the significance of active citizenship and youth empowerment.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Patrick Brown for joining us on this special day, demonstrating his support for our city’s youth. Additionally, the generosity of OroBite Canada and Sharmz Resto, who provided food for our young participants, added to the overall success of the event.
As our youth head back to school, the memories and lessons learned during the End of Summer Youth Connect will stay with them, inspiring their future involvement in community matters and local governance. It has been an incredible privilege to work alongside these students and witness their journey of growth, both as individuals and as community leaders.
In conclusion, my summer internship with Councillor Rowena Santos has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to the betterment of our community. The Teramoto Park Cleanup and the End of Summer Youth Connect events have left a lasting impact on our youth and the broader community, reinforcing the idea that when we come together with purpose and dedication, we can make history and create positive change. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for our community and our youth, knowing that they are poised to do great things both in the community and in their own lives.
