RAFIO Youth Workshop – Communicating with Parents and Asking for Help

Event Report

Date: Friday, June 5, 2026

Location: RAFIO Offices – 235 Montréal Road, Unit 203, Vanier, ON K1L 6C7

Theme: Communicating with Parents and Asking for Help

Overview of the Activity

On Friday, June 5, 2026, RAFIO organized a youth workshop focused on improving communication with parents and encouraging young people to seek help when needed. The objective of the session was to strengthen participants’ communication skills, emotional expression, and confidence in discussing important topics with trusted adults.

The workshop provided a supportive and respectful environment where youth could practice navigating challenging conversations while learning the importance of asking for help.

Activities Conducted

Participants took part in several interactive role-playing exercises designed to build communication and emotional awareness, including:

• Role-playing scenarios between parents and children

• Practicing conversations about personal concerns and emotions

• Exercises on expressing feelings respectfully and confidently

• Discussions on the importance of seeking support from trusted adults

• Reflection activities on healthy family communication

Through these activities, participants alternated between the roles of parent and child, allowing them to better understand different perspectives and develop empathy while practicing constructive communication.

Special Guest Presentation

RAFIO was pleased to welcome Obed Unyumbe, Liaison Officer at La Cité, who met with Grade 12 students to discuss the educational and career opportunities available after high school.

His presentation provided valuable information about post-secondary pathways, helping students better prepare for the next stage of their academic and professional journeys.

Participation and Feedback

The youth participated enthusiastically throughout the workshop, demonstrating openness, respect, and active engagement during both the role-playing activities and discussions.

Participants appreciated the opportunity to practice difficult conversations in a safe environment and found the information shared during the post-secondary guidance session both practical and motivating.

Closing of the Activity

The workshop concluded in a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Participants left with greater confidence in communicating with their parents, a better understanding of the importance of asking for help, and valuable insights into their educational opportunities after high school.

Conclusion

This workshop helped young people strengthen their communication skills, develop healthy ways to express their emotions, and recognize the importance of seeking support when facing challenges. The role-playing activities fostered empathy, confidence, and meaningful dialogue, while the presentation by Obed Unyumbe offered valuable guidance for students preparing for life after secondary school.

RAFIO sincerely thanks Obed Unyumbe for his time, expertise, and inspiring presentation, as well as all the youth participants for their enthusiasm, openness, and active participation throughout the activity.