Celebrating the Power of Youth: International Youth Day 2024
Every year on August 12, the world unites to celebrate International Youth Day, recognizing the immense potential and impact of the younger generation. Youth, often defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, play a crucial role in shaping the world’s future. This global observance is an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges they face and the significant contributions they make to society.
The theme for 2024, “Youth Engagement for Global Action,” focuses on encouraging young people to actively participate in creating a better world. This theme underscores the importance of involving youth in all areas of society, from politics and business to social justice and environmental conservation.
The youth of today are not just tomorrow’s leaders; they are already actively contributing to positive change. With their energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives, young people are driving innovation, advocating for social justice, and bringing attention to critical issues like mental health, gender equality, and environmental conservation.
In 2023/24, the New Canadians Centre supported 463 clients between the ages of 15 and 24. Today, we would like the highlight the work of the New Canadians Centre Young Leaders (NCCYL) group.
The NCCYL is a Youth Leadership Council that was launched in fall 2020. Each year, the NCCYL recruits new members who serve on the council for the duration of the school year from September to June.
The NCCYL seeks to empower youth who have newcomer experience by offering a platform where they can discuss the issues that affect newcomer youth, explore their own stories, and understand how they can help.
Participants engage in weekly meetings, training, and projects while building leadership skills in the process. Learn more about this amazing initiative and listen to their podcast here.
International Youth Day is a time to recognize the power and potential of youth in shaping a better world. It is an opportunity to celebrate their achievements, address the challenges they face, and support their empowerment. By working together, we can create an inclusive and sustainable future where the voices of the youth are not only heard but actively embraced in the global conversation. Let us stand with and for the youth on this important day and beyond, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all. Happy International Youth Day!