SportsPay Foundation continues its support of the Youth Network at FCJ Refugee Centre by hosting a yoga class, as part of a series of programming. The FCJ Refugee Centre has been serving refugees and others at risk due to their immigration status for 35 years, offering everything from settlement support and legal referrals to counselling and public education. Within that broader mission, the FCJ Youth Network stands out as a vibrant, youth-led program of 14 years, open to newcomers aged 13 to 30, regardless of immigration status, gender identity, language, or background.
Earlier this year, the Youth Network members identified the desire for mindfulness activities to support their wellbeing. SportsPay Foundation stepped in to assist, supplying a professional instructor and yoga mats for a fun and instructional 45 minute session.
The session proved to be a valuable experience for all participants.
“Yoga helped us release physical tension and reconnect with ourselves. I felt as though everyone had awakened a new spiritual energy within them. To me, having a clear and peaceful mind is an important part of making good decisions,” observed a Youth Network participant. “I think it’s important to have activities that encourage us to step away from our daily routines. We often spend so much time focusing on school, work, and responsibilities that we forget to give ourselves space to simply breathe, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves.”
“Yoga was a good activity for the group because it allowed us to focus on our bodies, and each movement helped us relax and de-stress,” said another youth member of the class. “It helps the mind and body.”
“Mindfulness helps us understand self-care in its various forms, such as physical, psychological, emotional, and cultural aspects. This helps us increase our self-love, well-being, and self-esteem,” another youth added.
The class was taught by volunteer instructor Cassandra Batts, a multidisciplinary wellness expert in yoga, fitness, and personal training, and owner/director of the Brockton Physiotherapy clinic.
“I chose to volunteer because I believe yoga can be a powerful tool for supporting mental health, building resilience and creating a sense of connection,” said Cassandra, Brockton Physiotherapy. “Teaching yoga to refugee youth was a meaningful experience, and I loved being able to share a practice that encourages people to slow down, reconnect with themselves and find moments of calm amidst life’s challenges.”
SportsPay Foundation plans to maintain its support the FCJ Refugee Centre’s Youth Network with more programming in 2027, based in consultation with the Centre on their needs.
