Over fifty Central Okanagan Public Schools students contributed more than 5,500 volunteer hours over the summer, supporting Camp OC programs for younger children. The Leadership in Action program launched this past summer, giving students firsthand leadership training and job skills.
"Leadership in Action was an incredible experience that taught me far more than I expected," said Khadija Mateen, a Grade 10 student who worked as an assistant teacher and camp counsellor. "From working with kids and parents to staying organized and showing up on time, it really helped me grow and build confidence."
Central Okanagan Public Schools Career-Life Programs and Okanagan College partnered to design a program to prepare students for success in post-secondary education, the workforce, and life.
Through interactive workshops and real-world practice, participants developed key competencies aligned with BC's Career Education curriculum, including teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, and leadership fundamentals.
“Leadership in Action is more than a summer volunteer opportunity, it’s an investment in future leaders,” said Scott Sieben, District Principal, Career-Life Programs. “We’re proud of the commitment shown by the student volunteers who stepped up to lead, learn, and make a difference in their community.”
Leadership in Action will run again in Summer 2026 and Central Okanagan Public School students can visit their school's career centre for more information or email careerlife.programs@sd23.bc.ca