Ottawa Youth Council

Where Youth Voices Shape the Future

The Ottawa Youth Council (OYC) is a dynamic program created in partnership with the City of Ottawa to empower youth aged 15-25. Our mission is to foster civic education and sustainable engagement on issues that matter to young people. In a vibrant and inclusive environment, OYC enables youth to confidently express their ideas, collaborate on city solutions, influence key municipal decisions, and contribute to policy development that drives meaningful change in Ottawa.

At the Ottawa Youth Council, we are dedicated to fostering civic engagement, leadership development, and community involvement among Ottawa’s youth. We provide opportunities for young people to actively shape the future of our city through education, advocacy, and direct participation in municipal decision-making. We believe that youth are not just participants but leaders in shaping our city’s future. Our members work on causes such as climate change, human rights, diversity and inclusion, and mental health, driving progress through collaboration, advocacy, and partnerships.

OBJECTIVES

  • Empowerment: We offer comprehensive workshops, leadership development, and career advancement opportunities.
  • Advocacy: We represent youth-related issues at the municipal level, ensuring young voices are integral to decision-making.
  • Community Building: We foster a sense of community and inclusivity among Ottawa's youth, fostering mutual support.
  • Partnerships: We collaborate with local organizations and government bodies to address youth-related concerns.
  • Preparation for the Future: We champion youth empowerment through education and career development.

Our Story

The Ottawa Youth Council (OYC) evolved from the Ottawa Youth Engagement Committee (OYEC), which was established after Mayor Jim Watson’s successful 2012 Youth Summit. The summit brought together over 180 diverse youth to discuss the issues affecting their lives. Following its success, Youth Ottawa established a dedicated youth committee, ensuring young people played a pivotal role in implementing the Youth Summit Action Plan. This plan focuses on enhancing communication with youth, mentoring, career advice, promoting volunteerism  and providing tailored interventions.

OYC Today

To strengthen connections between youth and municipal governance, the Ottawa Youth Engagement Committee has rebranded as The Ottawa Youth Council (OYC). The OYC now mirrors the structure of the Ottawa City Council, working towards youth representation in Ottawa’s twenty-four wards. This structure helps youth understand municipal government operations, deepening their knowledge of city processes. Through a network of youth counselors, educational workshops, and events, OYC prepares youth for civic engagement and ensures their active involvement in Ottawa’s decision-making.

What to Expect

The Ottawa Youth Council is open to youth ages 15-24 and offers a comprehensive program designed to cultivate leadership skills, promote community engagement, and provide practical experience.

This program includes:

  • Lectures on leadership and civic responsibilities
  • Presentations from councilors on community initiatives
  • Monthly sessions with guest speakers from various sectors & City departments
  • Ongoing special events to enhance community involvement
  • Additional engagement activities include social media campaigns, community service projects, and peer mentoring programs.

What has OYC worked on

Here are just a few of OYC’s accomplishments representing youth at the City level in recent years.

transit

Affordable Transit:

OYC organized meetings along with many other advocacy groups to encourage OC Transpo to implement a low-income bus pass (the EquiPass), which was passed by Council at half the cost of a regular monthly pass. It was implemented in 2017.

municipal

Youth & the Municipal Government:

In 2018, in collaboration with Mayor Watson's office, OYC launched Mayor for a Day. Over 90 high school students submitted an application listing three changes they would make to the City of Ottawa, and two high school students won the opportunity to shadow Mayor Watson and his staff for a day.

relationships

Relationships:

OYC has encouraged Councillor meetings with students regarding issues that matter to youth. In the fall/winter of 2018-2019, we'll be piloting our Councillors in Civics Program: a toolkit for teachers & Councillors to better facilitate and guide Councillor visits to Grade 10 Civics classes.

environment

Environment:

At the request of the Environmental Services Department, OYC consulted with over 50 students and teachers to understand issues with the Composting in Schools Program. Members compiled a report with recommendations, many of which were implemented in September 2018.

recycling

OYC successfully negotiated with the City to pilot the inclusion of recycling bins in parks. Four parks across the city will have recycling bins in 2017, with more to come!

communications

Communications:

The Youth Portal section of Ottawa.ca launched through input of OYC. Corporate Communications consulted with OYC to improve social media outreach to youth.

Interested in Getting Involved?

 Join us for our information session! We’ll be hosting an in-person information session on October 19th . We’ll be diving into more information about the program set to launch in November. If you are interested in attending, please fill in our interest intake form below and our oyc coordinator will follow up with more information

Interest Intake Application

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

Youth aged 15-25 who live in Ottawa and are passionate about making a difference in their community are welcome to join the OYC.

The OYC mirrors the structure of the Ottawa City Council, allowing members to participate in a youth counselor network, engage in council meetings, and collaborate with city councilors. This helps youth understand how municipal government works and ensures their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

The Ottawa Youth Council meets regularly to ensure ongoing engagement and
skill-building. Members can expect bi-weekly check-ins, online skills workshops, and a
monthly in-person meeting, providing a balance of virtual learning and hands-on
collaboration.

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. We are currently accepting program interest, as the program is slated to start in November. Please fill in our program intake form and our program coordinator will be in contact.

After joining the OYC, you’ll participate in a variety of activities aimed at building your leadership skills, enhancing your understanding of civic responsibilities, and preparing you for active participation in municipal governance. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with peers and local leaders.

Yes! The OYC offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth, including leadership development, public speaking, and networking with local government officials and community leaders. These experiences can be valuable in building your resume and preparing for future career opportunities.

No, participation in the Ottawa Youth Council is free. The program is designed to be accessible to all youth in Ottawa who are interested in civic engagement.

Yes, the OYC offers a flexible schedule of activities. You can choose the level of involvement that works best for your schedule while still making a meaningful contribution.

The OYC is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all youth, regardless of background, can express their ideas and participate in shaping Ottawa’s future. The program actively promotes diversity and ensures that a wide range of voices are represented and heard.

Please feel free to email our OYC Program coordinator Adam at adam@youthottawa.ca 

youth who are passionate

about community involvement, politics, and youth empowerment.

Community supporting youth
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