CALGARY

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE cause I believe that if we don’t choose how we want our future to look, someone else will choose it for us. As a Black Muslim woman, I rarely see people who look like me in spaces where important decisions are made. That motivated me to step into those spaces myself — to advocate for other minorities and to help create meaningful change by working alongside others who share the same values.

Why I joined RISE

Making a change starts with showing up in your community! I joined RISE to show up for my community by engaging youth in our democracy using grassroots organizing. Youth are the most impacted by decisions made today, and that's why we need to have a seat at the table. As a post-secondary student, researcher, and advocate, I believe the skills learned in RISE will be instrumental in making a positive impact.

Why I joined RISE

I wanted to learn how to engage the community and contribute to the education of Canadian youth

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE because I wanted a safe, supportive space to push past my anxiety and imposter syndrome while learning how to engage more confidently in civic life. I’ve always cared about my community, but I often felt unsure of how my voice fit in. RISE felt like a place where I could grow, meet people with similar passions, and work on projects that truly make a difference for youth.

Why I joined RISE

I wanted to join an initiative that helped me get out of my comfort zone and to just do something more than sitting at home and doomscrolling; to try and address something new and see if I can help other people feel more confident in our current landscape!

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE because I believe youth must have a seat at the table, especially in decisions that shape the future they’ll live in. I’m passionate about breaking down barriers to civic participation so that all young people can engage meaningfully, be heard, and see themselves reflected in decision-making that shapes their communities.

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE because I wanted to connect with like-minded people who have a strong affinity to creating and leading change in out communities. Being a part of something bigger than myself - while being able to contribute my own knowledge, perspectives and experiences - I believe is an impactful way to make a difference.

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE because I was seeking thoughtful engagement, connection, and opportunities for growth!
At times, I felt my initiatives to the community were not as long-lasting and concrete as I wished, and that came to me as a discouraging barrier. I believed that a collective may propel a positive ripple effect in the community and society. My impetus is the aspiration to take intentional actions and holistically learn from the people that I meet.

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE to create space for underrepresented youth in Calgary to be heard, included, and empowered in civic life. I want to break down barriers that prevent young people from marginalized backgrounds from engaging with their communities and having a say in decisions that affect them. RISE gives me the opportunity to take real action, build connections, and grow as a changemaker.

Why I joined RISE

As I grow older and gain new experiences, I notice more and more adversities within not only my communities, but others as well. I want to truly contribute and see a difference in at least one of those issues. Sparking passion for growth and development within youth is the first step towards that, and that is what I aim to achieve alongside developing a project to support various individuals across Calgary.

Why I joined RISE

I joined RISE because of the opportunity to create a project meaningful for the community while being able to meet new and like-minded people and being more civically engaged.