"Be the change you

wish to see in the world"

-Gandhi

The spotlight is focused on Glenlyon Norfolk School, January 18-19, 2008 as youths from throughout Southern Vancouver Island convene for the eighth annual Change Conference.

The Change Conference is organized by youth, for youth (or anyone else who's interested in change). The goal of the Conference is to promote the creation of positive change on a personal, community, and global level.

The Conference begins with a bang on Friday January 18th, as Mike Sheehan warms up the crowd with his interactive stage show. Tom Williams, founder of givemeaning.com, will then lead delegates through the stages of turning their ideas and dreams into realities. To close off the night, there will be a Sustainable Fashion Show, where students will model clothing that's good for the planet.

Saturday January 19th is an action-packed day full of interactive workshops, as well as passionate and often entertaining speakers. These include Brendan McLeod, a performance poet, John Nsambia, a survivor of the Rwandan genocide, and American comedian Josh Shipp, whose powerful story is sure to make you laugh and cry.

Only $35, the conference also includes lunch, entertainment and the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals. Financial aid is available.

The Change Conference has been the recipient of the United Way Youth Now Award for the city of Victoria in 2006. It has also received the Van City Community Development Financial Award in 2004 and 2005.

Rick Hansen (Wheels In Motion), Stephen Lewis (UN Special Envoy for HIV/Aids in Africa) and Phan Thai Kim Phuc are some of the speakers that have attended the Change Conference in its short history.

News:

-Check out the Workshops section for a message from Tom Williams

-Letters from Mayors Christopher Causton and Alan Lowe in Press/Media section

-Registration is Up! Head over to the Press/Media section for download