Youth of the Year is a national initiative celebrating youth leadership and achievement at Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada. Youth of the Year aims to foster strong Boys and Girls Club ambassadors and build capacity for Clubs to support more youth leaders in their communities.

SUPPORTING YOUTH VOICES

Young leaders across the world are raising their voices on issues that impact all of us—from climate change to gun violence, healthy eating to education, government policy to equity, diversity, and inclusion. They are actively building our collective future—and they need our help. Together, we can create spaces where youth can speak out, find a community, and lay a foundation that will support them for years to come.

Youth of the Year provides a national platform for Boys and Girls Clubs and our partners to show their support for young Canadians and play an active part in our collective future. Join the movement today.

YOUTH OF THE YEAR OVERVIEW

At the start of each school year, Club youth ages 15-21 are encouraged to apply for Youth of the Year by submitting a written essay and video showcasing their achievements, service, and leadership to their Club, school and community. From a panel of judges, six youth are selected as “Regional Youth of the Year” and will attend a series of leadership development training sessions. A second round of judging will take place to determine one final winner, who will receive the special recognition of Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada’s “National Youth of the Year”.

The National Youth of the Year winner will be revealed at the final celebration event and all six youth will be awarded their respective prizes, including scholarship funds for postsecondary education. The home Clubs of each Regional Youth of the Year winner will also receive a grant to further support their youth engagement work.

Youth of the Year winners will make a two-year commitment to serve as ambassadors for Boys and Girls Clubs on a local and national level, which includes digital and in-person participation in speaking engagements, media interviews, and networking opportunities.

BECOME A SPONSOR

Join the Boys and Girls Club movement and help amplify youth voices. As a valued sponsor, your contribution supports Boys and Girls Clubs in removing barriers, creating opportunities, and empowering the youth of today.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact: development@bgccan.com

YOUTH OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONS

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jared Morrow
Media Relations Manager, Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada
jmorrow@bgccan.com