"The sea is dangerous and its storms terrible, but these obstacles have never been sufficient reason to remain ashore...unlike the mediocre, intrepid spirits seek victory over those things that seem impossible...it is with an iron will that they embark on the most daring of all endeavors...to meet the shadowy future without fear and conquer the unknown." - Ferdinand Magellan

JOVENSvancouver celebrates its one year anniversary this month of November 2004. It has been a very productive year for this determined group of youth and the members are already looking forward to a new year filled with many more valuable experiences. JOVENSvancouver is a volunteer, not-for-profit organization with a focus on practical action to further develop, encourage, and empower the participation of youth in the processes and decisions that affect the Portuguese Canadian community. For those of you that may not be aware of, here is a list of the many projects and events JOVENSvancouver was a part of during the first year of life:

• Created and presented "Tarde de Palavras" - a tribute to Fernando Pessoa
• MAVERICKS club night during the "Spring Solstice"
• SUECA "Vamos Jogar" single release party at VODA nightclub
• Volunteered at the European Festival of B.C.
• Created a brochure for P.R. purposes
• Carried out interviews and presentations on the radio with "The Beat – 94.5" and "Portugal no Coracao"
• Had an interview with the popular RTPi television program "Canada Contacto"
• Ensures that the "Lusitania" monthly contains youth-related articles, by having a coordinator and collaborators participate with the publication
• Participated at the Open House for the new "Portuguese Centre Centre"
• Created and participated the tribute: "Remembering Amalia Rodrigues"
• "Summer Fun Day" during the Vancouver Latin Festival
• Supported a youth group for teenagers called "LusaTEENS"
• Created a day for children age 5 to 12 called "LUSO DAY FOR KIDS" that will be held in December of this year
• Presented a Fashion Show at CRUSH Champagne Lounge with performances by local luso youth bands SUECA and A.M.P.
• Meets regularly once a month, on the first Sunday of each month at 7pm
• and many other appearances that each one of the members does in order to create unity in the community

JOVENSvancouver is excited about continuing its journey into a new year and looks forward to meeting the many new members who are eager to join. For those of you that are considering joining, check out the website: www.JOVENSvancouver.com for more information. By joining JOVENSvancouver, you are becoming a part of history. Do not hesitate and join today! And, if you just feel like supporting the group and the events, come out to the upcoming Scholarship Fundraiser at the AuBar Nightclub on Friday, November 27th. Purchase your tickets in advance from selected members or by calling 604.684.5876 extension 1.