- Nicole Payie
Congratulations to our 2020-2021 Graduating Class!
Updated: May 4, 2021

While Sam spoke, the atmosphere in the online zoom celebration changed as his words, filled with sincerity and honesty, captivated the audience. Our Board Vice President and Programming chair Penny Jadwin had just announced Sam Ariyo as this year's Outstanding Student Award to the eruption of cheers.
I was filled with emotion as I looked at the graduating cohort and thought about their accomplishments in an especially challenging year.
Sam shared an inspiring speech. "A leader without followers is a lonely person in the company of strangers." He described how leadership development makes us better employees, family members, and individuals ready to give back to our community. His words resonated with us all.
"I don't have a better team, but my team has a better version of me" - Samuel Ariyo
The evening began with introductions from Leadership Victoria Executive Director, Mark Crocker. The keynote speaker Curtis Smith, our outgoing Board Chair, reminded us of the importance to pause and reflect in order to full participate in giving back to our community. The CAP project presentations illuminated the impact of community leadership and the importance of equity and inclusivity. You can find out the details of the projects in our consolidated report.
Gume Arzola presented the graduating class in an Academy Awards style presentation complete with music and a ten second speech. Particular thanks to all of the countless volunteer hours from board, staff, sponsors, programming committee, facilitators, coaches, friends, family and employers who brought this most unusual year to a spectacular conclusion.
Most of all, congratulations to all of the participants of the 2020-2021 CLDP graduating class and best of luck with your future endeavours!
Download the document below to view the consolidated report with further details on the CAP projects and yearbook for the participants.
Nicole Payie
Admin Assistant