Meet Shengbo Xu, but you can call him Daniel. Originally from China, Daniel has been in Canada for two years, and like many newcomers, he was eager to dive into the local culture and build connections. Being an outgoing and positive person, Daniel joined various school clubs like athletic teams and academic groups, hoping to meet people and find his place. However, he quickly realized that these clubs didn’t provide the sense of safety and belonging he was looking for. His peers were all born in Canada, and as a newcomer, Daniel felt out of place.
That’s when a friend introduced him to the YMCA’s Youth Mentorship and Academic Program (YMAP). At first, Daniel thought it was just another tutorial program, and he wasn’t sure what to expect. But his curiosity got the best of him, and he decided to check it out. What he found was far beyond his expectations.
As he became more involved, Daniel slowly let go of his preconceived notions and opened himself up to new experiences. "Making friends from different parts of the world is so much fun!" Daniel reflects. Through YMAP, he had the chance to connect with youth from various backgrounds, exchanging stories about culture, food, traditions, and experiences. It was a chance to break down barriers and build friendships in a way he never imagined.
YMAP, Daniel realized, was not just a place to form meaningful relationships—it also offered practical opportunities to grow and learn. The program provided volunteer chances at organizations like the Drop-In Center and Samaritan’s Purse, allowing Daniel to give back to the community while learning about life in Canada. One memorable experience was a presentation on budgeting and setting up bank accounts—valuable lessons for any newcomer.
But the most impactful event for Daniel was the YMAP Mock Interview event held last March. As an international student, Daniel wasn’t yet allowed to work in Canada, so the event provided him with an incredible opportunity to prepare for future job interviews. "I woke up early that morning, put on my suit and leather shoes, and couldn’t wait to participate," he recalls. The event gave him practical skills for interviewing, including how to communicate effectively, highlight his strengths, and manage stress.
A Volunteer’s Perspective: Christy’s Experience
Christy, an employee of connectFirst Credit Union, also had the privilege of participating in the YMAP Mock Interview event. She and other connectFirst volunteers worked alongside YMCA to facilitate activities and support the youth as they practiced their interview skills. The volunteers took on the role of interviewees, offering feedback and encouragement, but there was one special moment when the roles were reversed.
In a unique activity, the youth had the chance to be the interviewers, allowing them to see things from a different perspective. Christy, an in-house recruiter, shared that being "on the other side of the table" made her realize just how confident and fearless the young participants were. Despite being in an unfamiliar environment, these youth showed up ready to learn and eager to participate.
For Christy, it was a humbling experience. “I felt like I gained just as much from these young individuals as they gained from us," she says. The event wasn’t just about teaching the youth; it was a two-way learning experience. Christy expressed gratitude for the partnership between YMCA and YMAP, noting how powerful these community impact experiences can be when organizations work together.
The Power of Community Connections
Daniel’s experience with YMAP exemplifies the importance of community partnerships and the incredible impact they can have. “YMAP and its partners make impossible things possible!” he says with enthusiasm. For Daniel, and many other participants, YMAP has provided more than just an opportunity to learn; it has created a space for connection, growth, and friendship in a new country.
As a newcomer to Canada, Daniel’s journey with YMAP has been transformative, and he is grateful for the experiences it has offered. Whether through volunteering, learning life skills, or building lasting friendships, YMAP continues to help youth like Daniel feel empowered and supported as they navigate their new lives in Canada.