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Harrison Hot Springs, B.C. – August 21, 2017 – The latest and final session of the 2017 UFCW Canada Young-Workers Internship Program (YIP) recently took place in Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia, where 20 young UFCW Canada members from across Alberta and British Columbia gathered for a week of dynamic learning and hands-on training.

Members from UFCW Canada Locals 401, 1118, 247, and 1518 participated in an educational and thought-provoking week, where they participated in a number of skills development exercises aimed at helping them become better activists in their workplaces and communities.

"Over the last few months, we have been delivering a new YIP curriculum that focuses on building the communication and organizing skills of young UFCW members," says YIP Facilitator and UFCW Canada National Representative Zenee Maceda. "We hope this new material enables members to reach their highest potential in representing their fellow members and making a difference in their communities,” she adds.

Throughout the week, participants learned concepts that help cultivate progressive thinking when it comes to politics, media, and collective action. The group also developed their negotiation skills through a series of mock town hall meetings and collective bargaining sessions.

"This year's Young-Workers Internship Program was such a wonderful, well-rounded experience," says YIP participant and UFCW Local 1518 member Kelly Malcolmson. "I am leaving inspired and informed. I learned so many skills and also had the opportunity to meet like-minded activists who are my own age. I now have friends and resources that I can lean on for advice. I am excited to return to my store and be the best shop steward I can be."

The Western Canada session is the culmination of yet another successful year of the UFCW Canada Young-Workers Internship Program. This year's program featured dozens of participants, with five different stops from coast to coast. To learn more about the program, click here. You can also follow YIP on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and details on the upcoming 2018 sessions.