ABOUT GROWTH SPURT

Growth Spurt is an educational organization that provides facilitated discussions and interactive workshops focused on social-emotional learning and interpersonal skills, with an emphasis on anti-racism and gender inclusion.

What We Do

We create inclusive, trauma-informed environments where youth can explore big topics in accessible ways.

Our core mission centres on encouraging young people to become positive change agents in their communities.

Through games, play, and guided discussion our work supports youth to:

  • Grow their interpersonal skills and emotional literacy

  • Develop tools to better understand the lived experiences of others

  • Feel seen and celebrated in their own unique identities

What We Cover

Our workshops cover a wide range of topics, delivered using age appropriate methods.

Core themes of our work include:

  • Equality and equity

  • Anti-Racism and the impacts of colonialism

  • Gender equality and gender identity

  • Mindfulness and emotional awareness

  • Healthy communication skills

  • Consent

  • Setting boundaries

  • Conflict resolution

Who Our Workshops Are For

We host our workshops for children ages 5-13, tailored specifically to meet the needs of each group.

Learn More About Our Workshops

Our Team

  • Growth Spurt Co-Founder & Facilitator

    Shanique is an educator, facilitator, and a passionate community organizer. Born and raised on the stolen, ancestral lands of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations , Shanique’s work uses an anti-oppressive, intersectional approach to explore ways to build more connected, compassionate and caring communities. Shanique has worked as a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion consultant, lending her expertise in both corporate and community environments. Guided by her lived experience as a queer Black woman and her belief in the transformative power of leading with compassion, Shanique strives to empower youth to embrace their full potential as catalysts for positive social change.

  • Growth Spurt Co-Founder & Facilitator

    Ry is a descendant of Anglo-Celt and Sicilian settlers living on the unceded Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh territories. Ry is a facilitator, artist, and organizer who helps develop and deliver social justice, emotional literacy, and healthy relationship education to youth and adults. Ry firmly believes in the power of gently guided dialogue, community conversations, and art as essential components of education. With over 10 years of program development and facilitation experience, they currently work in elementary schools with Growth Spurt, in high schools with the YWCA, at UBC in their Men’s Circle, and with adults at Real Talk events. Ry brings with them a BA in Social Justice and Peace Studies and an MA in Globalization and the Human Condition.

How To Get In Touch

Email us at info@growthspurt.ca or fill out the contact form below to speak directly to our team about booking inquiries or for more information.