Emerging Community Leaders Program (ECLP)

In partnership with Gamar Foundation, Coquitlam Metro-Ford Soccer Club (CMFSC) is proud to launch the Emerging Community Leaders Program (ECLP). This is a unique opportunity for student-athletes to grow as leaders, not just on the pitch, but in their lives and communities.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Dates: Saturdays - May 9, 16, 23, 30, and June 6
Time: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Town Center Community Center (1207 Pinetree Wy, Coquitlam)
Cost: $50 (selected applicants will register through Power Up) Application
Deadline: Friday, April 17

*SPACES ARE LIMITED. APPLICATIONS WILL BE REVIEWED AND ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ACCEPTANCE DECISIONS BY APRIL 22.*

WHAT IS ECLP?

A five-week leadership experience designed for CMFSC student-athletes who want to:

• Build confidence, character, and leadership skills.
• Learn how to lead with grace under pressure.
• Explore future pathways beyond sport.
• Connect with mentors and community leaders.
• Design a real initiative that makes a difference in their community. 
• Eligible for graduation volunteer hours (BC requirement) 

“As Executive Director of Coquitlam Metro-Ford SC, I strongly encourage our young players and members to take advantage of this incredible opportunity. Programs like this go far beyond the pitch—they help shape confident, thoughtful leaders who understand the value of service and community impact.

We are especially fortunate to have Adel Gamar leading this initiative. As an Adjunct Professor at the Sauder School of Business, where he teaches adaptive leadership and organizational management, and as a globally experienced advisor to senior leaders across Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and governments, Adel brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and perspective. His experience with organizations such as UNESCO and Harvard Law School, along with his commitment to youth development through The Gamar Foundation, makes him uniquely positioned to inspire and mentor the next generation.

I have no doubt that those who take part will walk away with skills, confidence, and perspective that will benefit them both on and off the field.”

— Sara Maglio Executive Director, Coquitlam Metro-Ford SC

APPLICATION PROCESS

Who should apply?

You should apply if you are:

• A Grade 10 or 11 CMFSC student-athlete.
• Curious about leadership and personal growth. 
• Willing to engage, reflect, and contribute. 
• Interested in making a positive impact beyond the pitch. 

No prior leadership experience required.

How to apply:

Application Deadline: Friday, April 17th Submission Form: Emerging Community Leaders Program (ECLP): A Gamar Foundation Initiative – Fill out form

*SPACES ARE LIMITED. APPLICATIONS WILL BE REVIEWED AND ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF ACCEPTANCE DECISIONS BY APRIL 22.*

PROGRAM DETAILS

Week 1 - Courage & Character Module: Self Courage in Action

• To lead when no one is watching.
• Resilience, grit, and service beyond self.
• Setting personal development goals for the program.

Week 2 — Belonging & Community Module: The Synergy Between Us

• Trust and belonging.
• How human connection fuels high-performing teams.
• Shared norms, accountability, and team culture.

Week 3 — Adaptive Leadership Under Pressure Module: Adaptive Leadership for Athletes

• Navigating pressure, setbacks, and uncertainty.
• Moving from reaction to response.
• Leading from any position on the team.

Week 4 — Identity, Confidence & Mental Resilience Module: Identity & Confidence

• Competing with purpose, heart, and values.
• Managing expectations, self-doubt, and performance anxiety.
• Strengthening self-awareness and confidence under pressure.

Week 5 — Pathways Beyond the Pitch Module: The Future Pathways Lab

• Post-secondary planning and career exploration.
• Careers in sport, business, trades, arts, and community.

ABOUT GAMAR FOUNDATION Gamar Foundation is a nonprofit that aims to inspire, empower, and connect young people to enhance the public good in their communities. We do this through mentorship, training, and events. Naomi and Adel Gamar cofounded GamarFoundation to support the development of young people to become catalysts of change and a force of good in the world.

The Coquitlam Metro-Ford Soccer Club is proud to recognize Christopher Sheppard of Pulse Real Estate for his generous sponsorship the CMFSC Emerging Community Leaders Program. A lifelong Tri-Cities resident, devoted father of three, and long-time member of the club community, Chris has dedicated over 25 years to supporting the program as a coach, manager, board member, sponsor and proud parent. His deep connection to the club, combined with his passion for mentoring young athletes, makes his support especially meaningful. Professionally, Chris brings that same commitment to his work in real estate, where he is known for educating clients and guiding them through the buying and selling process—building on early experience in his family’s development business. We are incredibly grateful for Chris’s continued investment in the growth, leadership, and success of student-athletes in our community.

This is more than a program—it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact.

We look forward to supporting the next generation of leaders at CMFSC.