Meet the winner of YMCA Wanakita's 2025 Staff Scholarship
11-11-2025
The YMCA Wanakita Staff Scholarship is offered annually to provide one or more YMCA Wanakita summer leadership staff support to pursue post-secondary education.
Our 2025 winner is Michael Ayerst.
Wanakita experience:
I went to YMCA Wanakita Family Camp from 2013-2018. I became a camper on the Kids side in 2016, when I was nine years old.
Education:
I am currently attending Queen’s University for General Engineering. After graduation, I plan to work as an engineer, using technology and innovation to solve energy and environmental related problems.
Summer 2025 Role:
Junior/Intermediate Counsellor.
Favourite camp activity:
Leading backcountry canoe trips!
Favourite Camp Song:
Get Loose (Campfire Song)
What has camp taught you?
Working at YMCA Wanakita has taught me to be more outgoing and creative. As a kid, I was not always willing to step out of my comfort zone and join in on fun, silly activities. Camp has shown me how being enthusiastic and energetic motivates the people around you to let down their guard and participate. In the future, these skills will enable me to take initiative in group settings, and create a positive, engaging environment wherever I work!
