The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) has officially recognized thirty-two emerging leaders from rural Ontario, dedicated to fostering growth, respect, and community development through their 2023 Rural Change Makers (RCM) program.
Ellen Sinclair, Executive Director of ROI, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, “Rural Change Makers are the leaders of tomorrow, equipped to drive innovation in rural community development.”
From within our own community, three young people have been recognized:
Carly Knibutat (Seaforth)
A Mechanical Engineering Graduate from the University of Waterloo. Carly is passionate about positive change for the future and building resiliency in her rural community.
Danika Tait (Huron County)
Business Marketing student at Fanshaw College with more than 12 years’ experience in economic development. Danika is passionate about addressing the youth gap.
Hannah Field (Bayfield)
Registered Early Childhood Educator, is leading an entrepreneurial pursuit “Trees and Me Forest School” with a passion for bringing nature to children.
The program will prepare these young leaders (aged 18-35) from rural and northern Ontario to improve their communities through action – they will receive training sessions, develop a Youth Summit, and form planning committees for local activities.
Written by: B. Shakyaver