For immediate release

AIESEC Kwantlen students gain invaluable skills at recent conference

Metro Vancouver, BC – (March 13, 2012) – They came from all over British Columbia with one goal: to develop leadership skills that will help set them apart from other graduates and help them change the world. At the end of February, 150 students from UBC, SFU, UVIC and Kwantlen Polytechnic University attended the annual AIESEC Coastal Conference in Victoria, a three-day leadership conference for new and old AIESEC members living in BC.

AIESEC (pronounced I-sek) is the world’s largest, entirely student-run, not-for-profit organization. It operates in over 110 countries and territories with over 60,000 members. The acronym originates from Association Internationale des Etudeiants en Science Economiques et Commerciales, a name which no longer fits the scope of the organization that now encompasses more than just business students.

The group aims to empower young people by gaining leadership and experience through volunteering with a local chapter and the chance to participate in AIESEC exchange programs.

"I joined AIESEC because I was craving the opportunity to network with like-minded professional people and I saw an opportunity to make some powerful connections and develop myself," says Brian Mackie, one of AIESEC Kwantlen’s newest members. "AIESEC gives students practical hands-on business experience, which is absolutely integral to success in any industry. I'm receiving the opportunity to apply what I'm learning, while I go to school, instead of having to wait until I graduate."

For more information on AIESEC, visit: www.aiesec.ca.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,500 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

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For more information about Kwantlen, contact:
Joanne Saunders
Director, Marketing and Communications
604.599.2243
joanne.saunders@kwantlen.ca