Testimonials
We at Kateslem know that hearing from those who have been through our programs is important. Here are several testimonials from some of our previous members!
Fardaws
The Kateslem Program gave me so much more than just a safe place to spend my time. During some of the most vulnerable years of my childhood, it helped keep me away from negative influences and surrounded me with positive role models, dedicated teachers, caring coaches, selfless volunteers, and lifelong friends. Through the program, I learned the importance of teamwork, discipline, respect, responsibility, and perseverance. Karyn, the owner of the Kateslem Program, created an environment where children felt safe, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Her passion and commitment to the community made Kateslem feel like a second home for so many of us. I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to coaches Joe Bell and Frank. They invested their time, energy, and hearts into helping us grow—not just as athletes, but as young people. They believed in us, challenged us to be our best, and led by example with patience, integrity, and encouragement. The lessons they taught extended far beyond sports and have stayed with me throughout my life. Some of my happiest and most meaningful childhood memories were made at Kateslem. Whether it was participating in activities, sharing laughs with friends, learning from our mentors, or celebrating achievements together, every experience helped shape the person I am today. The friendships I built, the guidance I received, and the unwavering support from everyone who dedicated themselves to our success have had a lasting impact on my life. Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for everything the Kateslem Program provided. It wasn’t just a program—it was a community that gave me confidence, purpose, and a strong foundation for my future. Thank you to Karyn, Joe Bell, Frank, and every teacher, coach, and volunteer who made Kateslem such a special place. Your influence continues to inspire me, and I will always cherish the memories, friendships, and values I gained through this incredible program.
Farsheed
When I first came to Canada as a young immigrant, everything felt unfamiliar. I was learning a new language, adapting to a different culture, and trying to find where I belonged. Like many newcomers, those early years came with challenges, uncertainty, and the pressure of fitting into a new society.
The Kateslem Program became much more than just an after-school activity for me. It gave me a safe, welcoming environment where I could build friendships, develop confidence, and truly feel like I was part of my community. At a vulnerable age, it kept me away from negative influences by providing positive role models, meaningful activities, and a place where I always felt accepted.
Kateslem taught me invaluable life lessons that have stayed with me well into adulthood. Through sports, games, and group activities, I learned the importance of teamwork, discipline, respect, perseverance, and supporting those around me. It showed me that success isn't achieved alone—it comes from working together, encouraging one another, and giving your best effort regardless of the outcome.
Perhaps most importantly, Kateslem played a significant role in helping me integrate into Canadian society. It allowed me to connect with children from different backgrounds, improve my communication skills, better understand Canadian culture, and build friendships that made me feel at home in a country that was once completely foreign to me. It gave me a sense of belonging during a time when I needed it most.
Looking back, my memories at Kateslem with my friends remain some of the happiest and most meaningful memories of my childhood. The experiences, values, and friendships I gained there helped shape the person I am today. I will always be grateful for the positive impact the program had on my life, and I hope future generations of children have the opportunity to benefit from it just as I did.
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Faisal
As a newcomer to Canada, Kateslem gave me a sense of belonging, lifelong friendships, and a positive environment during some very important years of my life. Being part of Kateslem helped keep me focused, taught me teamwork, respect and discipline, and it kept me away from negative influences. Some of my best childhood memories were made on the Kateslem United Soccer Team with my friends. I am especially grateful to Joe and Frankfort their dedication, guidance and genuine care for all of us. Their mentorship had a lasting impact on my life, and I will always be thankful for everything they did for our team and community
Baktash
Karyn and the dedicated team form the Kateslem Program are one of the highlights of my childhood. They fostered a harmonious environment by helping us with our homework and came up with all kinds of fun activities to educate and entertain us afterwards. Kateslem sets the standard for after school programs in their dedicationpatienceand commitment to help children and youth stay safe productive and fun.
Rashid
Looking back, Kateslem was a huge part of my childhood. The friendships I made and the memories we created are something I'll always be grateful for. It was a place that brought people together and made us feel like we belonged, giving us experiences we'll never forget. A special thank you to the coaches, Joe and Frank, and also to Karyn for making it all happen.
Nabi
For me, Kateslem was a place of many firsts. It was where I went on a kayak field trip for the first time, joined my first soccer team-Kateslem United, thanks to Joe and Frank for coaching us. I even tried jiu-jitsu for the first time. Through the Kateslem club, I visited many field trips! As a newly arrived immigrant kid, Kateslem Club gave me more than just fun activities- it gave me friendships, confidence, and a place where I truly felt like I belonged. Some of my happiest middle school memories were made there, and I'll always be grateful for Karyn for organizing it!
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