Kelowna Students Graduate from Gateway Program, Poised for Success

Sixteen students from Kelowna have successfully graduated from the Gateway Program at Okanagan College (OC), a significant milestone that marks their transition from high school to further education and career opportunities. The graduation ceremony took place on January 23, 2024, celebrating the achievements of students who have benefited from this initiative aimed at supporting at-risk youth.

The Gateway Program, a collaborative effort between OC and Central Okanagan Public Schools (SD23), focuses on providing essential resources and mentorship to help students navigate their educational paths toward sustainable careers in the trades sector. Graduates like Ava Holte expressed deep appreciation for the program, stating, “Before Gateway, school kind of felt overwhelming. I struggled, I doubted myself… Gateway changed that and helped me grow as a person.”

The program’s instructor, Travis Neigum, acknowledged the unique challenges faced by each student. He noted that while many arrive with “crazy personal stories,” they display remarkable perseverance. “I have been the lucky person chosen to guide them,” Neigum remarked, highlighting the importance of accountability and personal growth in the students’ journeys.

Building Skills Through Engagement

Over 15 weeks, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster leadership skills and personal development. These included hiking Mount Boucherie, skiing at Big White, and cycling at Myra Canyon. Each experience aimed not only to build teamwork but also to encourage self-discovery among the students.

“Everyone involved made me feel seen and encouraged,” Holte added. “I wasn’t just another student; I was somebody worth investing in.” Such sentiments reflect the program’s commitment to individual growth and community support.

During the graduation ceremony, students received framed certificates and took a group photo, marking the culmination of their efforts. They were commended by OC president Neil Fassina, Ashley Ragoonaden, principal of SD23 Central Programs and Services, Valene Johnson, chair of the SD23 board, and superintendent Jon Rever. Johnson emphasized the significance of their journey, stating, “Your presence and your efforts matter, and that’s what drives change.”

Future Aspirations and Achievements

As a token of appreciation, Rob Law, the Gateway coordinator, received a clock crafted from a car panel, signed by all 16 students. This gesture symbolizes the bond formed during their time together and the collective commitment to future endeavors.

According to Law, approximately 60 percent of Gateway graduates return to Okanagan College to enroll in the trades program, illustrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for further academic and career success. Neigum expressed enthusiasm for the graduates’ futures, stating, “I’m excited to see where they go. They’ve proven to me they are ready.”

The Gateway Program stands as a testament to the power of supportive educational environments, helping students not only to achieve academic success but also to build confidence and a sense of purpose as they step into the next phase of their lives.