At The Bridge Youth & Family Services, creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and connected is at the heart of what we do. This month, we are pleased to spotlight Emma Hoegg (they/she), who serves as both Community Facilitator for Etcetera and Program Facilitator at Bridgeway Ethel. Though Emma has been with The Bridge for just eight months, they have already become a valued part of programs that support individuals at very different stages of their journeys; whether navigating recovery or exploring identity and belonging.

Building Community Through Queer Joy

For Emma, some of the most rewarding moments come from their work with Etcetera, The Bridge's social group for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.

"Each week brings more moments that make me feel proud of my work with Etcetera," Emma shares. "Pride is the foundation of the program."

Watching activities come to life and seeing participants connect through laughter, friendship, and creativity is what makes the work so meaningful. These moments of joy may seem simple, but they create opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop supportive relationships, and experience genuine belonging.

A Place to Be Authentically Yourself

Emma sees The Bridge's mission of transforming lives and building community reflected every week through the connections formed within Etcetera.

The program offers youth a space where they can show up as their authentic selves without fear of judgment. Through supportive relationships, peer connection, and access to resources, participants are empowered to explore and embrace their identities in ways that feel right for them.

Emma also highlights the importance of the program's gender-affirming supports, which help youth navigate their identity journeys with greater confidence and self-understanding.

"Etcetera provides an environment that empowers youth to show up as their true selves and build community," Emma explains.

More Than a Social Group

One of the messages Emma hopes the broader community understands is that Etcetera is much more than a recreational program.

"Etcetera is more than just another social group," they say. "It is a piece of queer world-making and advocacy in Kelowna."

Creating spaces that centre and celebrate 2SLGBTQIA+ youth is about more than activities and socialization. It is about fostering safety, well-being, visibility, and hope. For many young people, having a place where they feel accepted and understood can have a lasting impact on their confidence, mental health, and sense of belonging.

Supporting Youth on Their Journey

Emma describes feeling honoured to work alongside youth as they navigate questions of identity, self-expression, and community.

Every week, they witness the power of connection; whether through a new friendship, a shared laugh, or a young person becoming more comfortable in who they are.

Through their work with both Etcetera and Bridgeway Ethel, Emma helps create environments where individuals are supported in discovering their strengths, building meaningful relationships, and moving forward with confidence.

We are grateful for the compassion, creativity, and commitment Emma brings to The Bridge. Their dedication helps ensure that participants have spaces where they can feel safe, celebrated, and empowered to be themselves.