GUELPH – More than 3,000 Grade 8 students and their teachers from nearly 50 local public, Catholic, and independent schools attended the 18th annual edition of the Child Witness Centre’s 2025 Youth Symposium.
The event took place at Galaxy Cineplex Cinemas on April 15 in Guelph and April 16 and 17 in Waterloo.
The youth heard from a line-up of professional speakers including a magician, acrobat, stunt person, boxer, wrestler and former police sergeant.
What do all these speakers have in common? A big heart for making a difference in the lives of young people.
Topics included dreaming big, setting SMART goals, resiliency, overcoming challenges, healthy dating relationships, volunteering, school spirit and showing kindness.
It was also a special opportunity to learn from Child Witness Centre about the work it does in Wellington County, Guelph and Waterloo Region.
Last year the agency supported 1,088 child and youth victims of abuse and crime through the justice system, along with 827 caregivers.
This event is focused on inspiring, educating, and encouraging youth at a significant time in their personal development.
The program is strategically scheduled in April to reach Grade 8 students before they begin high school later in the year. To learn more visit childwitness.com/youth-symposium/.
