Blind Beginnings is excited to once again offer our Youth Leadership Training Program, designed for teens ages 13–19 who are blind or partially sighted from across BC. Since 2010, this program has been helping youth build confidence, develop life skills, and prepare for the transition into adulthood. Many past participants have gone on to become mentors, role models, and leaders in their communities—and this could be your year to join them!
What You’ll Learn
Youth Leadership is more than just a training program—it’s a chance to grow as a person while connecting with peers who understand. Through hands-on activities, real-world practice, and lots of fun, participants will:
Build teamwork and collaboration skills
Develop self-advocacy strategies for school, work, and beyond
Strengthen communication, empathy, and listening skills
Gain confidence in public speaking and presentation
Discover the value of volunteering and giving back
How the Program Works
The program is offered in two parts:
Part 1: Virtual Training Sessions
Wednesdays, Oct. 1 – Nov. 5 | 4:30–6:00 PM | Online via Zoom
Over 6 weekly sessions, youth will explore leadership concepts, practice skills in real time, and collaborate to plan the in-person training weekend.
Part 2: In-Person Leadership Weekend
March/April 2026 (dates TBD) | Youth who complete the virtual sessions will be invited to a 3-day training weekend in Vancouver filled with independence-building challenges. Participants will:
Travel together on public transit
Stay in a hotel with their peers
Share meals in restaurants
Take on team-building and problem-solving activities
Build friendships and confidence in a supportive, fun environment
This weekend is often described as the highlight of the year—a chance to put learning into practice, gain independence, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Why Join?
Graduates of the program often go on to volunteer as:
Mentors to younger children and their families
Speakers in schools and community groups
Contributors to the Blind Beginnings Limitless Blog and Podcast
Event planners and ambassadors for Blind Beginnings initiatives
Most importantly, participants gain transferable skills they can use in school, work, and life.
Registration Details
Deadline: Friday, Sept. 26
Email aman@blindbeginnings.ca with:
Participant’s name and date of birth
Visual impairment diagnosis
Parent’s name and email address
Youth’s phone number and/or email address
Contact info for Zoom links
Questions? Call us at 604-434-7243 or toll-free 1-866-736-8620.
Space is limited and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis—so don’t wait!