Heading into its eighth year, the city’s Girl Power Conference continues to grow, adding participants and activities.
With about 40 girls its first year, the conference is hoping to attract 200 girls in Grades 5 to 9 this year to the one-day event May 7. Held at the Confederation College Fitness Centre, Girl Power 8 brings in fitness instructors, keynote speakers, wellness industry employees and other positive role models to encourage the girls to take on an active and healthy lifestyle.
Participants can try out activities like volleyball, basketball, dance, yoga, self-defense and even musical theatre.
"It’s a great experience for (the girls) to learn how to come out of their shell and be more open; there’s no pressure," said event coordinator Kayla Congdon, adding the girls-only day allows the youth to try out new activities without the pressure of boys around.
Myles Cizmar, supervisor of recreation and culture children and youth programs, said many girls will drop out of organized sports and activities between the ages of 11 and 14.
"They seem to lose interested because of a number of factors," he said, noting many girls feel uncomfortable trying new things with boys around at that age.
A girls-only environment is more positive and non-threatening, he said.
"We really hope the girls leave the day feeling motivated and that fitness and an active lifestyle makes them feel good about themselves mentally and physically," he said.
The main purpose of the event is to empower girls to take responsibility for their own health.
Registration can be done in person at the Canada Games Complex or the Victoriaville Civic Centre; the registration deadline is April 15. For more information visit
www.thunderbay.ca/girlpower.
