B.C. has announced that it will create a Young Leaders Council in order to provide youth with a new platform to share feedback on issues important to them.
According to the province, the council will be made up of youth between the ages of 14 to 26 and it will “provide direct and ongoing feedback” to Brittny Anderson, the premier’s special adviser on youth.
Council members will be appointed for a one-year term and have the option to continue with the council for up to three years, says the government.
As far as commitment goes, the government says meetings will be held every three months with a mix of in-person and online.
“From climate change to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, young people are facing considerable challenges. That’s why it is critical to have young leaders at the table to find solutions,” said Premier John Horgan.
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“We want to know what matters most to B.C.’s youth and to make sure they have a say in building a stronger province and a brighter future for everyone.”
The B.C. government seeks to fill the Young Leaders Council with youth across the province who are Indigenous, Black or people of colour, who live in rural or remote areas, young people living with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ and other young leaders from equity-seeking communities.
The plan is for the Young Leaders Council to discuss a variety of topics including economic recovery, the environment and natural resources, climate change, education, housing, mental health and other areas important to youth.
“This is an exciting opportunity for young people across B.C. to meet like-minded leaders who want to make a difference,” Anderson said. “This new council gives our future leaders a voice, and our government is committed to listening to that voice as we look to shape our province for generations to come.”
Any young leaders interested in applying for a position on the council can do so online here: www.gov.bc.ca/
All applicants under 19 will require a signed parent or guardian consent form.
Graham Cox
