At the Black Manitobans Chamber of Commerce (BMCC), we believe in Leveling the Playing Field for All a mission that drives us to advocate, connect, elevate, and empower communities across Manitoba. That’s why we’re proud to support the Winnipeg Police Service’s Ghost Gang Life campaign, a powerful initiative helping at-risk youth and their families escape the grip of gang life and build brighter futures.
A United Stand Against Gang Influence
Gang activity touches every corner of Winnipeg, creating challenges that demand bold, collective action. Ghost Gang Life is a beacon of hope, offering a clear message: leaving gang life is tough, but it’s possible. With the right support, youth can reclaim their futures. This aligns with BMCC’s commitment to fostering equitable opportunities and uplifting communities through collaboration and empowerment.
How Ghost Gang Life Works
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Confidential Support Line: Text 204-900-6010 to connect with The Link’s 24/7 team, ready to guide youth and families toward safety and opportunity.
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WPS Gang Prevention Team: Led by Cst. Michelle De Groot, the team delivers school presentations and personalized support, helping youth navigate away from gang involvement. Their proactive approach mirrors BMCC’s focus on education and mentorship.
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Community Champions: Leaders like Mitch Bourbonniere of Ogijiita Pimatswin Kinamatwin (OPK) and outreach worker Vinnie Lillie, who left gang life behind, inspire youth with real stories of transformation. Their work reflects BMCC’s value of giving back to communities.
Empowering Through Prevention
At BMCC, we know that true change starts with prevention. Ghost Gang Life tackles this head-on by engaging youth early through school programs that address high-risk behaviors like truancy or violence. Vinnie Lillie’s lived experience resonates deeply, showing kids that they can choose a different path. This proactive spirit echoes BMCC’s 2025 mandate to empower youth through initiatives like our Inaugural BMCC Youth Chamber Black Youth Entrepreneurs Summit.
A Call to Families and Communities
Parents and guardians are vital in steering youth away from gangs. BMCC encourages families to:
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Build strong connections through quality time and involvement in education.
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Know your child’s friends and their influences.
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Teach skills to resist peer pressure and resolve conflicts.
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Encourage participation in positive activities like sports or youth groups.
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Stay vigilant about your child’s whereabouts.
These steps align with our mission to foster resilience and opportunity, ensuring every young person has the tools to thrive.
A Collaborative Vision for Change
Ghost Gang Life is a community-wide effort, and BMCC is proud to stand alongside it. As we work to establish Innovation and Incubation Centers and Business Development Hubs across Manitoba, we see parallels in the WPS’s call to unite against gang influence. Together, we can create a safer, more inclusive Winnipeg where every individual has the chance to succeed.
Take Action Now
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Report and Connect: Call 9-1-1 for emergencies, 204-986-6222 for non-emergencies, or report crimes online.
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Stay Informed: Check CrimeMaps for local crime stats and visit winnipeg.ca/gangprevention for resources.
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Watch and Learn: See the Ghost Gang Life story on YouTube.
Leveling the Playing Field
At BMCC, we’re committed to advocating for equitable opportunities and empowering communities. Ghost Gang Life embodies this vision, showing that with support, youth can leave gang life behind and step into their potential. As we prepare for our 2025 initiatives like the Manitoba Black Business Week and our Business Pitch Competition we invite you to join us in supporting this vital campaign.
Together, let’s ghost gang life and build a stronger, more inclusive Manitoba.
Phone: +1-888-973-8403
Email: info@bmbcc.ca
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