Y RISE – Respect. Integrity. Strength. Empathy.

A leadership journey for boys and young men ages 13–17.

Y RISE is a new youth leadership program developed by the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg. Designed with input from boys and community leaders, it supports the goals of Women and Gender Equity Manitoba (WAGE MB) and the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence by preventing Gender-Based Violence at its roots—by helping boys become self-aware, compassionate, and community-minded leaders.

Delivered over six weeks during the summer (two sessions per week), Y RISE creates space for participants to reflect on identity, relationships, and responsibility. The curriculum encourages boys to explore what it means to lead with empathy, challenge harmful gender norms, and grow into young men who uplift others.

Program Features:

• Interactive, culturally relevant sessions on healthy masculinity, emotional regulation, media influence, consent, human rights, financial literacy and leadership.
• Mentorship and relationship-building through weekly check-ins and team-based activities.
• A trauma-informed, strength-based approach that centers identity, culture, and lived experience.
• Guest speakers and creative learning opportunities that keep the sessions engaging and hands-on.

Register to:

• LEARN about consent, respect, leadership, and community
• BUILD emotional strength and positive relationships
• CONNECT with mentors and new friends
• EXPLORE culture, identity, and your goals
• PRACTICE life skills from communication to money management

What’s Included:

• A group celebration trip to the Sea Bears basketball game (August 1)
• A free one-week adventure at Camp Stephens in August
• A 12-month YMCA-YWCA membership for ongoing connection and wellness
• A final celebration event in September to recognize each participant’s journey and growth
• All meals, bus fare, and materials provided
   

REGISTER NOW

Y RISE builds strong, lasting connections between youth and the YMCA-YWCA community. It’s not just a summer program—it’s an early and essential intervention to prevent violence by building up leaders before they’re ever in a position to cause harm.