The Next Generation of Leaders

BY DANA KOBERNICK, LCC Communications Manager

With the goal of broadening perspectives and developing social skills, LCC’s Middle School students have unique opportunities to step out of the classroom and engage with peers from different countries.

Students have to demonstrate their interest to participate. Following an application and interview process, a select number of students travel every year to the CAIS (Canadian Accredited Independent Schools) Middle School Leadership Camp in Minden, Ontario. Alongside other students from across the country, they hone their leadership skills and learn how to get their voices heard and make compromises. They participate in a series of sessions that may include conflict resolution, effective communication, diversity, and leadership roles.

CAIS Middle School Leadership Conference Minden, Ontario

As affirmed by CAIS, students become risk-takers at the camp by “[working] independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies.” They all try something that’s new and, perhaps, a little scary for them. Maybe they will venture on stage to show off their dance moves or participate in the high ropes challenge.

CAIS Middle School Leadership Conference Minden, Ontario

Mostly, though, it is a time to work together. “During my time at leadership camp, I learned how to collaborate with my peers,” says Ari Sinyor ’23. “By forming strong bonds and attending various seminars, we all grew together as future leaders.”

Caroline Weber ’23 adds, “I gained a lot from the classes and team activities. I learned that I could make an impact, while still enjoying myself!”

Round Square Conference Bogota, Colombia

As LCC is a member of Round Square (RS), Middle School students also attend RS Conferences. In 2018, five LCC students, along with Middle School Math Teacher Meagan Kearney, travelled to Colombia to attend the conference which was focused on “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. The students connected with other students from around North and South America, experienced the Colombian culture, engaged in community service activities, visited Bogota and its surrounding areas and created lasting friendships with their host families.

Round Square Conference Bogota, Colombia

“My visit to the Round Square Conference in Colombia gave me the opportunity to discover the day-to-day life of another student my age and introduced me to a new culture, allowing me to recognize our similarities and embrace our differences,” says Zoë Topiol ’21. “The greatest souvenir from my travels was meeting people from all over the world. I still keep in touch with them today.”

Round Square Conference Bogota, Colombia

Participation in the CAIS Leadership Camp and RS Conference represent LCC’s commitment to experiential education. These are the types of activities that are essential to supporting students so that they can take their place in a global society as leaders and recognize the power of their voice and their ability to effect change.

CAIS Middle School Leadership Conference Minden, Ontario

Middle School students were to have attended the 2020 Round Square Conference at Glenlyon Norfolk School in Victoria, BC, but due to the health crisis this event was postponed.

Round Square Conference Bogota, Colombia