News release
Office of the Secretary of State
(Rural Development)(Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario)
NATIONAL RURAL YOUTH NETWORK COUNCIL SELECTED
OTTAWA, May 30, 2003 - The Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Rural Development) (Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario) today confirmed the appointment of Dawne Knockwood of Charlottetown, P.E.I., as one of 13 new representatives to the council of the National Rural Youth Network (NRYN).
The NRYN, currently a 165-member organization of youths between the ages of 18 and 29 who represent rural, remote and northern communities across the country, was launched at the National Rural Conference in April 2002. Its goals are to provide a forum for youth to learn from one another, connect with peers and share information. The council will be preparing the first annual plan for the network, including how to build membership, and members will also be providing input into various government policies and initiatives. NYRN council members were selected by their peers at the recent National Rural Youth Conference in Orillia, Ontario.
"I'm pleased the Network's members represent the diversity and talents that are so prevalent in today's young people," said Mr. Mitchell. "They will help set the course for maintaining and improving life for youth living in our rural and remote communities. If these young people are any indication, our future is in good hands."
Dawne Knockwood is very involved in youth issues. The 21-year-old woman is a member of the 4H Program as well as a member of the native council of the province.
She's also an active leader in her community. She is currently developing an educational program where young Mi'kmaq would study their traditional language and culture. By doing this, she hopes to bring more notice towards rural communities, especially where aboriginal people live.
"Youth are leaders of today and tomorrow," she says, "but we need to get them involved right now, as soon as possible. I believe the National Rural Youth Network is a step in the right direction and I am proud to be a part of it."
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For more information, please contact:
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Christine Aquino Press Secretary Office of the Secretary of State (613) 759-1085 |
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Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa (613) 759-7972 |
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Keith Cossey Senior Policy Adviser, Atlantic Canada (902) 426-2937 cosseyk@agr.gc.ca |
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