Giving youth a voice

The provincial government is giving youth a voice in decisions that affect them to help make progress on initiatives that are focussed on their future success.

“Hearing directly from young Islanders has made all the difference in helping government move forward on a variety of initiatives that are improving our education system, our economy, our cultural sectors and more,” said Sonny Gallant, minister of Workforce and Advanced Learning.

“These efforts show how we are the mighty Island when we use our small size and interconnectedness to our advantage, working closely together to focus on making big things happen,” he added.

Input from the Youth Futures Council and annual YDAY events will help build a more skilled workforce, enhance entrepreneurship, and recruit and retain a talented and productive population, notedGallant.

The Youth Futures Council is a voice for young Islanders on key youth issues. The council organizes the annual YDAY P.E.I. event, as well as advises the provincial government on ways to enhance programs, policies, strategies and resources for youth.

“It is such a fulfilling and rewarding experience to listen to our peers and take action on their concerns and the issues they face,” said Nicole Mountain, member of the Youth Futures Council.

“Island youth have a voice, and as the Youth Futures Council, we want to ensure those voices are heard. YDAY helps us make effective recommendations to government that reflect the thoughts of young Islanders.

“This has already opened the door for conversations regarding housing, retention and employment opportunities, with even more to come.”

The Youth Futures Council will present their findings and recommendations to the Learning Partners Advisory Council to provide feedback to leaders in education on P.E.I.

For more information, visit www.princeedwardisland.ca/ en/topic/youth-futures-council.