Meet our YMCA International Youth Internship Program group
As part of the YMCA of Greater Toronto's commitment to empowering youth and strengthening global connections, we're excited to introduce our YMCA International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) cohort. These young professionals recently went to Colombia, where they will work with our partner YMCAs in Bogota, Cali, and Medellín and serve their communities.
Before leaving, our interns participated in comprehensive pre-departure training at YMCA Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre. They studied Spanish to prepare them for work and attended information sessions on various topics, including international cooperation, innovation, safety, and security.
Get to know our IYIP interns
Adeb
Adeb has grown as a newcomer with the YMCA, transitioning from a client to a volunteer and now a program leader. Part of the National Young Leaders Advisory Committee (NYLAC), Adeb’s passionate about youth empowerment and outreach.
Adeb applied for IYIP to continue building strong relationships with the YMCA and take the next step in his personal development. In Colombia, he aims to become the best version of himself and gain confidence from his experiences.
His future goals include writing a book, working in global international development, and contributing to global causes. Adeb is also interested in performing arts and theatre as a form of activism.
Aisha
Aisha has a bachelor’s degree in international development and a master’s degree in international affairs. Her passion for Latin American cultures, food security, agriculture, and politics led her to apply for IYIP.
Aisha is excited to connect with the community in Colombia, experience the culture, and understand our partner YMCAs’ methods. During her training at Cedar Glen, she learned the value of meeting people where they are and adopting a community's best practices. Aisha aspires to provide development services in conflict or post-conflict zones in the future.
Cefaye
Cefaye studied sociology at the University of Ottawa (uOttawa) and is passionate about mental health and accessible education. She enjoys creative outlets like art and applied for IYIP to learn more about different cultures and how they celebrate daily life.
In Colombia, Cefaye looks forward to experiencing the music and cultural celebrations. The training at Cedar Glen emphasized the importance of mental and physical safety and community support. When she comes home, Cefaye plans to share what she has learned.
Lyonel
Lyonel was born and raised in Nicaragua and came to Canada to study. Lyonel holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and completed a one-year music program in Vancouver. He enjoys music, fitness, psychology, and video games.
Lyonel looks forward to learning as much as he can in Colombia, absorbing the culture, and hearing stories from the local communities.
During his training at Cedar Glen, he learned valuable team-building and communication skills. In the future, Lyonel plans to compose music for media, video games, films, and entertainment.
Miranda
Miranda loves travelling, exploring new places, and learning about new cultures. She applied for IYIP to push herself out of her comfort zone and discover new opportunities.
Miranda looks forward to new experiences, creating bonds, and learning with the YMCA in Colombia. Over the next five years, Miranda aims to grow her global connections and broaden her horizons.
Oneeka
Oneeka, a social psychology graduate, is interested in music, spirituality, and well-being. She applied for IYIP to work abroad, gain knowledge, and give back to our partner communities.
In Colombia, Oneeka wants to absorb the culture and hear community stories. The training at Cedar Glen taught her the importance of understanding different perspectives and experiences, which is essential for her work in Colombia and her future goals. In the next five years, Oneeka envisions herself doing philanthropic work, travelling, and supporting various communities.
Sali
Sali studied life sciences and global development at Queen’s University and completed a master’s degree in global health in the Netherlands.
Sali, a travel lover, applied for IYIP to gain new experiences working internationally, build skills, and learn Spanish. She looks forward to living with a host family, learning about Colombian culture, and strengthening community relationships.
At Cedar Glen, she learned how to build emotional safety and security by stepping out of her comfort zone. Sali aspires to work in global health and participate in initiatives that improve health care worldwide.
Richelle
Richelle studied environmental sustainability at Toronto Metropolitan University. A lover of kayaking and outdoor activities, she is passionate about ecological restoration, ocean conservation, and the environment.
Richelle applied for IYIP because Colombia's culture and environment align with her interests. Richelle is eager to immerse herself in YMCA Vision 2030 and connect with the local Colombian communities. In the future, Richelle’s goal is to work in environmental sustainability and make an impactful difference.
We are incredibly proud of these young professionals and can't wait to see the positive impact they'll make in Colombia. Stay tuned for more stories from their journey. Let's cheer them on!
