A Youth Advisory Council is a formalized group of young individuals serving as a representative body, offering a voice to the youth within a specific community or program. Typically affiliated with an organization or municipality, the council plays a pivotal role in providing recommendations and guidance on matters directly impacting the younger demographic. Its structure and activities are intricately linked to the associated organization, reflecting a commitment to involving young people in decision-making processes. The Youth Advisory Council serves as a crucial forum for young individuals to express their needs and actively contribute to initiatives, particularly evident in the Mentorship Program. The council fosters leadership development by guiding youth through new concepts, enhancing planning skills, and promoting proficiency in work environments. It focuses on empowering young individuals with employability skills, introducing novel concepts, and honing social advocacy skills, ultimately providing them with a platform to make a meaningful impact.

The Youth Advisory Council provides young people with a forum to voice their needs and gives them an opportunity to make a difference in the Mentorship Program.

The main purpose of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is to empower immigrant youth by involving them in planning and decision-making processes. In doing so they serve as a formal “board” for all the youth involved in the program, and represent their views at monthly meetings. The YAC provides space for young newcomers to express their voice and ideas needed to contribute to enhancing the program.

YAC Mission

To create a space for youth to have a voice: where their ideas are valued and they contribute to social change and the enhancement of the Mentorship Program.

YAC Vision

Empowered minds lead changes and contribute meaningfully to the development of society.

YAC Goals

1. To give youth a voice
2. To engage youth in the development and implementation of programs that will assist in the growth of the mentorship program
3. To empower and build confidence in youth thereby giving them the opportunity to make decisions and push for community engagement and participation
4. To cultivate important life skills in youth: teamwork, negotiation, building agency, time management, leadership and public speaking