No Person Left Behind: Igniting the Potential in the Leaders of Tomorrow
At the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, we believe in the power of youth and their ability to lead today and shape tomorrow. Guided by our slogan, “No Person Left Behind,” we aim to empower families to move forward while ensuring that children flourish in an environment where creativity and belonging thrive. Through our programs, we ignite the potential of young people, giving them the tools and opportunities to succeed as leaders in their communities.
Among the many inspiring youth in our programs, Moustapha Aljallad and Nada Al Ali stand out as shining examples of youth leadership. Their unique journeys reflect the transformative power of mentorship, shared experiences, and the profound impact of community engagement.
Moustapha Aljallad: A Young Leader on a Mission to Inspire
Moustapha Aljallad, only 12 years old, embodies the incredible impact youth can have in leading and inspiring those around them.
As a summer day camp volunteer, Moustapha took on responsibilities beyond his years, showing an eagerness to contribute to his community and grow as a leader. “Usually, people my age don’t get this opportunity, and I took it. I don’t regret it for a second,” Moustapha says proudly.
His involvement began with the Swim Pizza Movie program at the John W. Lindsay YMCA, and soon, his role expanded to include various summer day camps. Through these experiences, Moustapha learned invaluable life skills. “Patience and teamwork were big ones for me,” he shares. “I learned how to stay calm when things get busy, and I figured out how to work together with people of all ages. That’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
What sets Moustapha apart is his ability to inspire others. “A lot of young kids now want to be volunteers because they’ve seen me do it,” he says, beaming. “It makes me feel proud that I can be a role model for others, even though I’m still learning myself.” His journey at the YMCA has ignited his passion for giving back and helping others discover their potential.
Looking ahead, Moustapha is excited about continuing his journey with the YMCA, with plans to work part-time and eventually create programs for other youth. “I want to develop a program that teaches kids about volunteering—how important it is, and how much you can learn from it,” he says with determination. “The YMCA helped me realize that I can make a difference, and I want to help other kids feel the same way.”
Through his volunteer work, Moustapha has discovered his passion for leadership and a deep sense of community engagement. “The YMCA showed me how to turn small actions into big changes,” he says. “It’s not just about the tasks you do; it’s about the people you meet and the ways you can help them. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.”
Nada Al Ali: Empowering Youth Through Support and Creativity
Nada Al Ali, another shining leader at the YMCA, reflects the organization’s mission of igniting the potential in children and youth.
As a summer day camp staff member, Nada’s passion for helping young campers flourish has been inspiring to see. From organizing creative programs to supporting the personal growth of every camper, Nada has proven that the power of leadership lies in fostering a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment.
One of her most memorable moments was guiding her day campers through an end-of-summer talent show. “At first, the campers were nervous, but after days of practice and encouragement, they built the confidence to perform. The excitement and pride they showed during the performance were unforgettable,” Nada recalls. “Seeing them overcome their fears and shine in front of their friends was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”
Throughout her journey, Nada has also discovered the personal fulfillment that comes with youth development. “The best part of working with the campers is watching them grow, not just in their skills but in their confidence. They come in shy and uncertain, but by the end of the summer, they’ve developed friendships and leadership qualities of their own,” she explains.
Her experience at the YMCA has equipped her with invaluable leadership and communication skills while deepening her commitment to youth development. “It’s not just about organizing activities; it’s about building relationships and creating an environment where every child feels valued and supported,” Nada shares. “I’ve learned so much from the campers, and I’m grateful to be part of their growth, just as much as they’re a part of mine.”
Support our Youth
At the YMCA, we believe that creating opportunities for youth to lead, grow, and connect is essential to building strong communities where no person is left behind. By investing in our youth and nurturing an inclusive and collaborative environment, we ignite the spark of creativity, leadership, and community spirit—building a brighter future for all.
Both Moustapha and Nada are examples of the YMCA’s mission in action—young people who have embraced the opportunities provided by our programs and are eager to make a difference in their communities. By embedding best practices in youth development and continuously improving our programs, the YMCA ensures that youth like Moustapha and Nada can unlock their potential and become leaders in their own right. At the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, no one is left behind. We will continue to ignite the spark of creativity, leadership, and community spirit in every young person who walks through our doors, building a brighter future for all.
As we approach the end of the year, your generous support can provide life-changing opportunities for youth, families, and communities in need, ensuring that no person is left without the resources they need to thrive.
Donate today to help us create a future where everyone has the opportunity to shine, belong, and succeed. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
