New pilot program being launched in Kamloops to help empower high school girls

KAMLOOPS – School District 73 and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture are partnering to help high school girls become more physically active.

In a news release, the district says a pilot project involving 240 female secondary students from six schools will kick off Feb. 5 during an “EmpowerHER Forum” at the Tournament Capital Centre.

The forum is in partnership with FitSpirit, PacificSport Interior, the City of Kamloops, and the Kamloops YMCA-YWCA, and will introduce the girls to the “FitSpirit” experience through physical activities, and connect them to an activity of their interest.

It will also connect them with community organizations to help each girl succeed in physical activity. Paralympic athlete Jessica Vliegenthart will speak at the event.

Each student will be invited to join FitSpirit – a free 16-week after school program being held at their schools.

“Sport and physical activity play a powerful role in helping people lead healthy, productive lives. It also has the power to drive positive change for gender equity in our society and empowers girls and women to be active participants and leaders,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture in the release. “This pilot initiative is a wonderful collaborative effort designed to expand opportunities for young women and girls so they can explore their potential and enjoy the immense benefits of being active.”

Kamloops is one of two cities in Western Canada to pilot FitSpirit.

“This is an incredible opportunity to change the current narrative around physical activity,” said Alexandra Inglis, SD73 after-school program coordinator in the release. “We want to inspire movement, reduce barriers to participation and connect girls with some amazing role models in our community. We want girls to be excited about physical activity and to help them to find success in their own way.”