From the ice to camp to the kitchen, TNYF support and opportunities continue for program graduate

A graduate of the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Academy (WJHA) and former Camp Manitou camper, Kole is a model example of how the True North Youth Foundation (TNYF) strives to nurture youth through its programs. Behind all the fun and adventure of camp, there are many opportunities for learning and growth. When Kole began his journey with the TNYF, he was shy and quiet but has emerged with new confidence, life skills and work ethic. Moving from camper to volunteer, gaining leadership skills through Camp Manitou’s Prospects Program and graduating to become a summer staff member helped to develop his communication skills, responsibility and reliability and has contributed to preparing Kole for his next chapter as he explores his passion for the culinary arts. Following his first year of studies at Red River Polytechnic, he’s chosen to complete his work experience in the Camp Manitou kitchen. The teamwork learnt on the ice was put into practice in the kitchen as he applied his first-year culinary learnings, preparing lunches for upwards of 300 campers daily during what was Camp Manitou’s busiest summer to date. As he pursues his future goals, Kole finds it rewarding to give back to campers after he himself enjoyed the same experience, and his TNYF coaches and mentors are just as happy to continue to play a role in his development.