Changing our World: YPI Finals Inspire Impact
On Thursday, February 13, Brentwood hosted the highly anticipated finals of the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), where students took the stage to advocate for charities making a difference in the Cowichan Valley community. After weeks of research and preparation, finalists delivered compelling presentations in hopes of securing a $5,000 grant for their chosen organizations. The event showcased students’ dedication to social change, emphasizing the power of youth-led philanthropy.
YPI is a global organization that partners with secondary schools to foster community engagement and provide students with a reality-based experience in philanthropy. Among the many notable figures in attendance was Mr Alistair MacGregor, Member of Parliament for Cowichan-Malahat-Langford, Head of School, Mr Chalmers and Deputy Head School - Academics, Ms Allen. Describing his experience as “inspiring,” Mr MacGregor expressed admiration for the students' passion and engagement, emphasizing the importance of applying knowledge beyond the classroom: “While theoretical learning is important, applying it in practice is just as crucial” he noted—a valuable reminder for us all.
Like the young changemakers who fueled the civil rights movement or lead the fight for environmental justice, these students stood not just as presenters, but as advocates. They stood not just as learners, but as leaders. They stood not just for their projects, but for real change.
Five finalist groups presented on pressing social issues, from food insecurity to homelessness. Ultimately, the winning team, consisting of Cormac W, Libby C, Meredith B, and Miguel N, secured the grant for their chosen charity, KidSport, advocating for increased access to sports opportunities. “YPI is something I’ll never forget,” explained Cormac. “I loved the real-world application of this project and how I played a role in making a positive impact on a cause that means so much to me.”
However, YPI was never just about winning—it was about leadership and driving change: “My group and I worked really hard, and even though we didn’t win, I’m proud of our teamwork and how we became finalists,” shared Bhu Bhu K, Ellis ’28. “YPI gave me the chance to try things I never had before, and it will always be a happy memory for me.”
Metamorphosis 9 teacher Mr Wismer praised the initiative, commenting, “It’s a great project because students engage with the community, often with parts of the community they wouldn’t interact with otherwise.” He added, “It’s also the project that we see the greatest buy-in from students because they witness, firsthand, the impact these charities have and genuinely want to do well.”
A heartfelt thank you goes to Brentwood and everyone involved in making this event possible. As the world evolves, so do we, and it is experiences like YPI, alongside the guidance of our teachers, that shape the leaders of tomorrow. A massive round of applause goes to all the Grade 9 students who took part, especially the finalists, whose dedication did not go unnoticed.
Leaders are not born: they are made.
William L, Ellis ‘26