Discover how students are shaping programming at Pathways Kingston and developing skills in communication and leadership along the way.
Pathways Kingston’s Peer Leadership group is a space for students to take ownership of the program experiences they want to create for themselves and their peers. Peer Leaders help shape programming throughout the year, all while building valuable skills in event planning, teamwork, communication, and leadership.
Since September, the group has held three meetings, each one designed to spark conversation, build connection, and grow their skills through hands-on experiences. The first meeting kicked off with Leadership Bingo, where students explored what peer leadership looks like in everyday life. From supporting their friends at school to helping other students come out of their shell during programming, the group shared thoughtful ideas to show up as stronger leaders within the community.
In the second meeting, the group focused on communication and collaboration. A game called “Describe It, Draw It” had everyone laughing as they tried to guide their partners through drawing challenges, practicing their active listening and communication skills. The students also collectively agreed on group expectations, choosing values like respect, kindness, and participation to guide their time together.
By the third meeting, the group had grown in size and energy. Students took part in “Escape the Haunted Hallow Manor,” a spooky escape room-style activity that challenged them to work in teams to solve puzzles and crack codes. Afterward, they reflected on what makes a strong team and how they can use those skills in future projects.
All their planning and collaboration came together in their first big event of the year: A Halloween party for the whole Pathways Kingston community to enjoy. Leading up to the day, the Peer Leaders created a survey to invite other students to choose the perfect movie for the event, and practiced their budgeting skills while planning the ingredients to bake Halloween treats. Peer Leaders ran a cozy hot chocolate and milkshake bar, hosted a candy dice game, and set up a cookie decorating station. The Pathways Kingston team was blown away by the level of teamwork and attention to detail the Peer Leaders showed throughout the event.
Pathways Kingston’s Peer Leader Group demonstrates how creating spaces to have young people make their voice heard helps them grow into confident and capable leaders. Through youth-led programming to create meaningful and memorable experiences, Pathways Kingston is building a more engaging and welcoming environment for students this school year.
