The Ottawa Youth Council (OYC) is a youth-led advisory and leadership body that brings together young people from across Ottawa to engage in civic dialogue, policy discussions, and community leadership.
Operating in collaboration with the City of Ottawa, OYC provides youth with meaningful opportunities to learn how municipal government works, contribute youth perspectives on city-wide issues, and develop leadership skills through real civic engagement.
OYC members work collectively to explore issues affecting young people, participate in consultations, and collaborate with elected officials, City staff, and community partners.
Who is OYC for?
Age: Youth and young adults (typically 15-25)
Location: Ottawa
Commitment level: Ongoing (monthly meetings, workshops, and activities)
OYC is for youth who:
- are interested in civic engagement, leadership, and public policy
- want to better understand how the City of Ottawa operates
- are motivated to represent youth voices in city-building conversations
- are ready to commit time and energy to collaborative leadership
Members are selected through an application process to ensure diverse representation from across the city.
Who supports OYC?
The Ottawa Youth Council is delivered by Youth Ottawa in partnership with the City of Ottawa.
The program is supported by:
- City Councillors and City staff
- Community organizations and partners
- Youth Ottawa facilitators and program staff
This partnership ensures that youth voices are meaningfully connected to municipal decision-making and city-wide initiatives.
What You Gain From OYC
First-hand experience with municipal governance and civic processes, engaging with City staff and community leaders
Leadership development through workshops, projects, and representational forums
Strong peer networks with other engaged youth leaders
Recognition as a youth leader contributing to city-building efforts
What You Gain From OYC
First-hand experience with municipal governance and civic processes, engaging with City staff and community leaders
Leadership development through workshops, projects, and representational forums
Strong peer networks with other engaged youth leaders
Recognition as a youth leader contributing to city-building efforts
Get Involved
Youth can get involved with OYC by:
- Applying during the annual recruitment cycle
- Participating in interviews and selection processes
- Committing to regular meetings, workshops, and activities once selected
Youth who are newer to civic engagement may be encouraged to begin through Youth Ottawa’s Active Citizenship Initiative (ACI) before applying.
Charting OYC's Impact
Hundreds of youth engaged in civic discussion and collaboration with City Staff
Representation from youth across Ottawa neighbourhoods and wards
A strong track record of alumni continuing into leadership roles in community, education, and public service
