The Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is proud to announce that recruitment is now open for the 2026 cohort of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). This initiative is designed to amplify youth voices, integrate their perspectives into AKFC’s programs, and strengthen national youth engagement strategies.
The YAC embodies the principle “Your world, your impact”, reminding us that one individual can spark a ripple of change. By joining, young people across Canada gain the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, connect with peers, and influence initiatives that bridge local action with global impact.
About the Program
The Youth Advisory Committee is a collaborative space where members bring diverse skills and interests to the table. Together, they work across projects that focus on three central pillars:
- Content Creation Members develop creative outputs, digital campaigns, and storytelling projects that highlight youth perspectives and global issues.
- Outreach and Engagement The committee organizes events, builds networks, and expands AKFC’s reach among Canadian youth communities.
- Research and Evaluation Members contribute to assessing program impact, gathering insights, and ensuring youth engagement strategies remain effective and relevant.
Subcommittees
In addition to the three pillars, YAC members can join up to two subcommittees. These allow participants to specialize further and deepen their contributions:
- Communications Subcommittee – Focused on messaging, social media, and public engagement.
- Research Subcommittee – Dedicated to data collection, analysis, and evaluation of youth-focused initiatives.
- Priority Initiatives Subcommittee – Concentrated on specific projects that align with AKFC’s strategic goals.
Accessibility and Support
AKFC ensures that the Youth Advisory Committee is accessible to all young people in Canada. To achieve this:
- All expenses are covered by AKFC, removing financial barriers to participation.
- The program is inclusive, welcoming youth from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Members receive mentorship, resources, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- At the end of the one-year term, participants receive a stipend to recognize their time and contributions.
Recruitment Timeline
The recruitment process is structured to ensure fairness and clarity:
- Application Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 11:59pm ET.
- Interviews: Conducted throughout February.
- Final Selection: Applicants notified by the end of February.
- First Meeting: Scheduled for April.
Meeting Schedule
- Monthly meetings are held via Zoom on the third Tuesday of each month.
- Additional meetings may be scheduled for specific projects or subcommittee work.
- Members are expected to remain actively engaged to receive the full stipend at the end of their term.
Why Join the YAC?
Becoming a member of the Youth Advisory Committee offers unique benefits:
- Leadership Development: Gain hands-on experience in project management, communications, and advocacy.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, mentors, and professionals across Canada and beyond.
- Skill Building: Enhance abilities in research, content creation, and public engagement.
- Global Perspective: Contribute to initiatives that link local action with international impact.
- Personal Growth: Develop confidence, creativity, and a sense of purpose through meaningful work.
Eligibility
The YAC welcomes applications from young people across Canada who are passionate about:
- Youth empowerment
- Community engagement
- Global development issues
- Creative storytelling and advocacy
Applicants should be ready to commit time and energy to collaborative projects and be enthusiastic about contributing to AKFC’s mission.
Application Process
- Complete the online application form.
- If selected, participate in an interview during February.
- Receive notification of final selection by the end of February.
- Begin your journey with the first meeting in April.
The Youth Advisory Committee represents a powerful opportunity for Canadian youth to make a difference. By joining, you become part of a movement that values creativity, collaboration, and impact.
As AKFC reminds us: “Think global, act local. One person can spark a ripple of change.”
Together, YAC members are building a better world, one project, one voice, and one community at a time. Learn more and Apply Here.
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