In just one year, Asia Thompson has made a lasting impact as a Youth Engagement Facilitator, creating inclusive programs and meaningful experiences for high school-aged youth. Check back next week for another inspiring staff spotlight!
“We’re very active in the community,” says Asia. “Empower Simcoe’s Youth Link Program features exciting weekly themes like Disney, Taylor Swift, and Lego Night, alongside interactive activities such as Just Dance Parties and Cookie Bake Offs. We also create wonderful opportunities to visit local partners, including Barrie Hill Farms and the Orillia Museum of History and Art.”
A graduate of Georgian College’s Social Service Worker program, Asia places great importance on forming impactful connections with the youth she serves. “Every day is so exciting when I can gain insight into their lives,” she explains. “Building rapport and forging meaningful connections is what I love most about my role.”
Asia’s diverse heritage—her mother’s family is originally from Jamaica and her father’s family hails from Trinidad—inspires her passion for community and culture. She fondly recalls her childhood experience at Kiddie Caribana during Toronto’s annual Caribbean Carnival when she was just seven years old. “I wore a dazzling costume with oversized wings,” she reminisces with a smile. “Those memories of dancing to Caribbean music and celebrating the richness of our cultures are unforgettable.”
As we celebrate the Empower Simcoe Youth Program, Asia has ambitious goals for its future. “I’d like to expand our inclusive offerings in Simcoe County, and to reach even more youth in our community,” she expresses. “It’s vital to enhance our skill-building initiatives, like the Tastemakers cooking program. I also envision opportunities for youth to engage in bus training and explore new hobbies or sports, which could be incredibly enriching.”
Congratulations, Asia, for leading the way toward an even brighter future for youth of all abilities in our community!
Visit our Black History Month page to celebrate Black excellence at Empower Simcoe, discover inspiring staff spotlights, and find community events and resources happening throughout the month! Check back each week throughout February for new features.
1 Comments
Yay! Way to go, Asia!!!
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