Saturday, March 25, 2017

Were you a Nicole or a Mery?

Ted's Run for Literacy is a proud supporter of Can U. The other evening Can U's executive Director, Roger Berrington spoke passionately of the work they accomplish to promote social justice for children who may not have the opportunities others may take for granted.  Can U was one of ten NGOs shortlisted to present a three minute pitch to vie for cash prizes offered through Winnipeg Foundation.  Can U, University of Can, won "The People's Choice"along with a $5000 cash prize. The little race that could loves this little group that can!

The following is the three minute pitch delivered by Roger Berrington.

It's a good day to be alive.

Mike

CanU students, Roger Berrington (centre) 
My name is Roger Berrington. Mery and Nicole inspired me to be the founder and volunteer Executive Director of CanU. Were you a Nicole or a Mery?

Nicole was a kind and hard-working, raven-haired young woman with dreams of studying medicine and helping others. University was the norm for Nicole’s family and she excelled at her prestigious high school. In Winnipeg, 92% of the Nicoles, who have ample opportunities and resources, graduate from high school. Nicole is now realizing her potential and fulfilling her dream of becoming a doctor.

Mery was a kind and hard-working, raven-haired young girl with dreams of helping her family start a brand new life in Canada. Mery had great potential but limited resources and opportunities. The oldest of 6 children, she had lots of responsibility at home, and had to work hard to learn English and catch up in school. In our city, 47% of the Merys graduate from high school.

CanU, the University of Can, specializes in recognizing potential like this, turning obstacles into opportunities and connecting the Merys and Nicoles in mutually beneficial and transformative ways. Beginning in grade 5, CanU kids travel weekly to Nicole’s universities where they can see their own potential and share in a whole new world of possibilities.

With $10,000, CanU will build on its track record of combining social innovation with leadership development. We will launch a brand new program; a social innovation version of Dragon’s Den. With the help of mentors, CanU kids will turn our city’s obstacles into opportunities for social change and pitch their ideas to potential partners.

CanU began as a pilot program for 15 kids and now, six years later, inspires 1100 youth and university students through 70 university-student-led programs.

· Now, university labs are crowded with dreams as Medical students, like Nicole, and CanU kids discover together remedies for chronic social barriers.

· Now, the smell of confidence fills the million-dollar research kitchen as Nutrition students and CanU kids cook together and share meals and recipes for health and friendship.

· Now, the beautiful sound of justice fills the campus courtroom as Law students and CanU kids together experience fairness and equity.

· Now, Mery, who has just graduated from high school, has a dream of studying Law one day.

My name is Roger Berrington. Mery and Nicole inspired me to be the founder and volunteer Executive Director of CanU.

CanU imagine if Mery and Nicole were here today to see what they inspired?

(At this point Roger pointed to Mery and Nicole in the audience and they stood and received a thunderous applause.)

Roger Berrington, Executive Director, CanU.