Issue link: https://publications.tfs.ca/i/1547045
2025-2026 IMPACT REPORT TFS 2025-2026 IMPACT REPORT 8 REVITALIZING THE LEARNING FORUM Updating areas of the Learning Forum is one example of this approach. The idea to rethink the space outside the Senior School Principal's office emerged from a conversation with then-Principal Jean- Bastien Urfels, who envisioned a more inviting and comfortable place for students to study. "Jean-Bastien shared his vision to create a welcoming study area for students. We thought it was a brilliant idea and were happy to support it," say Yvonne and Trent. For the couple, the value of a space like the Learning Forum goes beyond creating a place to study. It reflects their belief that students need places where they can feel balanced, supported and able to step away from the pace of the school day. "Wellbeing is our top priority. We strongly believe that feeling safe, happy and supported at school helps children thrive, in high school, university and long after." MENTORING FUTURE LEADERS Their family's support for students is about more than the spaces where they learn. Trent and Yvonne believe students need chances to explore their interests, take risks and learn from experience, too. Last year, Trent shared his professional expertise with students through the inaugural Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Business (EIB) program, serving as a mentor and panel judge for TFS' Cougars' Den pitch competition. Students developed and pitched their own ventures, putting their ideas into practice and learning from the process. Prize funding provided by the TFS Foundation helped bring the winning concepts to life. "The EIB program provides a safe place to make mistakes, to learn resilience and find real solutions," he says. For Yvonne and Trent, these initiatives are part of what makes investing in TFS meaningful: improving the environment students use today while creating opportunities that will make a difference in their lives. "Watching this transformation unfold has been truly rewarding. We want students to have the spaces, support and resources they need to make the most of their time at TFS. By investing in students today, we are helping prepare them for whatever comes next." 1. Trent Mell weighing in on the pitches at Cougars' Den.