On Saturday, March 13th, the first Coast of Bays Youth Forum was held at Conrad Fitzgerald Academy in English Harbour West. Despite inclement weather conditions, approximately 120 participants came together to listen to presenters from various regions of the province.

Youth Services Canada volunteers greeted participants at the door and handed out kit bags, name tags and agendas outlining the days activities. The day began with an ice breaker designed to get the participants moving and interacting followed by speakers from other Youth Councils across the island. Danny Huxter, representative from Zone 11 - Emerald Zone and Jody Kelly, representative from Zone 2 - Labrador discussed the initiatives being carried out by the youth councils in their zone. Our MHA, Oliver Langdon visited the Forum and extended his congratulations to all the youth in attendance and encouraged them to get involved in the economic development process in the region.

Elizabeth Sheppard of Hospitality Nfld. & Labrador presented on Careers in Tourism with amazing video footage of Soiree '99 and Cabot 500. Coffee breaks and lunch were provided by Jenielle Caines of JAD Snacks. Chris Griffiths, of Griffiths Guitar Works gave an amazing presentation on Youth Entrepreneurship pointing out the difficulties but more importantly the rewards of opening his own business in 1992 at 18 years of age.

After lunch, participants were divided into 5 groups to identify and report back on youth issues and initiatives. Dana Pittman and Jeff Cullihall of FINALY! (Futures in Newfoundland & Labrador's Youth), informed the youth of their involvement in the youth movement and where FINALY! fits into the scheme of things.

The day ended with nominations being called for the election of representatives to fill seats from each of the schools, two older youth seats and a youth at large seat. The elected representatives are Jennifer Lushman of Holy Cross, Joanne Hollett of Greenwood, Randy Augustine of St. Annes, Holly Vallis of Conrad Fitzgerald, Damian Power of King Academy, Jodi Drake of Conrad Fitzgerald (Youth at Large), Leah Marshall, Older Youth Seat and Cynthia Kelly, Older Youth Seat. These representatives form the Youth Council for the Coast of Bays region.

For further information, contact:
Ms. Tracey Perry, Executive Director
Coast of Bays Corporation
P.O. Box 310
St. Alban's, Newfoundland
A0H 2E0
Phone: 709-538-3552
Fax: 709-538-3627
E-mail: inquiries@coastofbays.nl.ca