Forum for Young Canadians, a national youth program, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2016, has chosen Laura Rinaldi to participate in one of three week-long conferences in Ottawa, Ontario. Laura will be one of about 315 young Canadians chosen to attend the Forum this year. The program is an opportunity for young Canadian leaders to learn more about governmental processes, strengthen their leadership skills and to learn more about the diversity of thoughts, cultures and people which make Canada a great country.

Laura will participate in various activities, including an international trade simulation, a mock election, meetings with government leaders at a Parliamentarian Reception and Senate Breakfast, and a visit to the House of Commons’ during Question Period. As a representative for both St. Benedict C.S.S and for Sudbury/Nickelbelt, Laura will have an opportunity to network with other youth from throughout the country, discuss important issues facing communities across Canada, and come to a better understanding of the importance of Canadian government processes.

Alex Cimino, Student Council Vice-President at St. Benedict C.S.S, was recently accepted to represent the riding of Nickelbelt as a Liberal MPP at the annual Legislative Assembly’s Model Parliament Program. The Legislative Assembly of Ontario Model Parliament Program is an educational program taking place at Queen’s Park in Toronto, Ontario, designed for civic-minded high school students in grades 10 to 12, who are interested in current events and provincial issues. This unique educational experience will bring together 107 students from across Ontario, representing each of the province’s ridings, for a three-day program in Toronto. Alex will have the opportunity to meet key figures in Ontario’s parliament as well as learn about the history of the provincial legislature and the legislative process through workshops and presentations.

Through the Model Parliament Program experience, youth from across Ontario will gain a stronger knowledge of the province’s parliamentary practices and traditions while participating in an authentic experience that will teach them the value and importance of our democratic process.

Best wishes to both students!