This campaign is the initiative of Jobs Prosperity Collaborative, a group of local businesses and community leaders, focused on bringing jobs to Hamilton. One way to do this is through improving the image of Hamilton.

On May 3rd, Youth from across the City along with several local organizations, including McMaster University, participated in the launch of the 15-week Hamilton Proud Campaign to promote and celebrate Hamilton as the best place to work, live, and raise a child.

Often times we hear the phrase 'lead by example'. If we are to take that phrase seriously, as a community, we only need to turn to the Youth of Hamilton who participated in this event, and follow their lead.

Through the Best Schools and Best Communities Movement school-aged children and youth were invited to participate, and they did with much enthusiasm and pride. Skits and songs were written and rehearsed, dance routines created, and video clips were editted. All of this was done in individual groups located throughout various parts of the city. It wasn't until the day of the launch that all of these young people joined together as a whole to merge their projects into one.

As a Community, we should be extremely proud of the Youth of this City. They displayed a considerable amount of respect for their peers, for themselves, and for their leaders and it was obvious to anyone fortunate enough to be 'back stage' as the event came together that these young people wanted to be a part of this event. These individuals are definitely proud of their community and have set a good example for us to follow.