Last year, I came across the YUFL program and thought it seemed too good to be true. I had been searching for a chance to meet fellow nature nerds and gain urban forestry experience, so I was thrilled to stumble upon this free, hands-on training and mentorship program for Toronto youth.
After completing my undergraduate degree in sociology and geography, I knew I wanted a job sharing my passion for urban nature with as many people as possible. However, like so many other young adults in my position, I was faced with the challenge of getting my foot in the door. Little did I know that my decision to commit to the YUFL program would lead me to a career path that I couldn’t have found anywhere else!
I joined the 2023 YUFL cohort and quickly learned that many of the other participants were also looking for career opportunities in the environmental sector. The group was made up of diverse individuals with varying levels of experience and knowledge, so we were always sharing stories and learning from each other.
Whether it was in-person or virtually, I looked forward to the weekly YUFL workshops between May and August. Not only did we learn about some of the incredible work being done to improve Toronto’s greenspaces, but we also had the opportunity to engage with professionals in the environmental sector about how we could get involved.
Each tree-themed workshop was led by a knowledgeable instructor or LEAF mentor. Topics included everything from tree identification and Indigenous land use perspectives to tree equity and digital communications skills, all of which prepared us for our final project of organizing and leading a tree tour and native shrub giveaway in neighbourhoods with low canopy cover.
Engaging with community members through those tree tours was the highlight of my YUFL experience! Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they were given their free shrubs is something I’ll never forget.
I’m thrilled to be leading the YUFL program this year and offer participants the same chance to advance their careers while making unforgettable memories. Through the program’s interactive workshops, YUFL participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to organize their own tree tours. They will also be encouraged to make lasting connections with the industry professionals and community members that they will interact with. Most importantly, participants will have a welcoming space to gather every week with new friends who share similar interests.
When I applied to the YUFL program last year, I never would have imagined that I’d be organizing the program today. I can’t emphasize enough how valuable the experience was! I encourage everyone to put themselves out there by applying today. You never know where it might lead you!
Interested in becoming a Young Urban Forest Leader? We are accepting applications for the 2024 program! To learn more, join our upcoming Info Session on Tuesday, March 12th at 6:30 p.m.
Natasha Jovanovic is the Education Coordinator at LEAF.
This blog is part of a series highlighting YUFL alumni. Read other blogs on the Young Urban Forest Leaders program.
The Young Urban Forest Leaders Program is funded in part by the City of Toronto's Urban Forestry Grants and Incentives Program.