Youth Climate Action Initiative
Register here for 2025 cohorts
Mission
To empower youth from diverse backgrounds to be active drivers of sustainability in their communities.
Join our Youth Climate Action Initiative and explore how YOU can drive real change in your community! This program offers two unique cohorts designed to equip youth with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to tackle sustainability challenges. Whether you're passionate about responsible consumption, environmental advocacy, or launching your own sustainability project, there’s a cohort for you. Choose the cohort that fits your goals—or join both!
Spring 2025 Cohorts
Cohort 1
April 24 – June 12
Thursdays, 6–8 PM
This cohort focuses on SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, helping youth understand the impact of industries like fashion, tech, tourism, and entertainment on sustainability. Through interactive discussions, career exploration, and real-world field visits, participants will gain insights into circular economy strategies, ethical consumerism, and climate action. This is an opportunity to explore how individuals, businesses, and communities can drive systemic change toward sustainable production and consumption practices.
What You’ll Gain:
Deep understanding of SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production) and sustainability challenges
Research skills to identify key environmental and social issues
Field visits to sustainability-focused organizations
Insights into careers in sustainability and climate action
Practical strategies to integrate sustainability into everyday life
Cohort 2
June 26 – August 28
Thursdays, 6–8 PM
Ready to bring your sustainability idea to life? This cohort is designed for youth who want to take action by developing and implementing a real-world project. Through mentorship, hands-on workshops, and site visits, participants will refine their project concepts, create action plans, and gain the skills needed to engage communities, secure funding, and measure impact.
What You’ll Gain:
Guidance on refining and strengthening your project plan
Hands-on working sessions with expert mentorship
Strategies for stakeholder engagement and building partnerships
Real-world inspiration from sustainability professionals and site visits
Leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to drive impact
Tools to measure success and ensure long-term sustainability
Eligibility:
Youth ages 16-29
Resides in or around the GTA, particularly in the Jane and Finch, Weston, Thorncliffe Park, Flemingdon Park, and Black Creek areas
Has an interest in sustainability and community climate action
Additional Program Details:
Free
Reimbursement for transit expenses
2-4 hours per week commitment
Sustainability Leader Certificate following the completion of the program
Program Partners:
Funded by:
Contact Us
For more information:
Contact Rafia Salam, Youth Community Worker: rsalam@skillsforchange.org
YCAI Community Climate Action Project Spotlights
Regrain is an initiative started by a YCAI program graduate that helps food and beverage processors uncover the power of their plant-based byproducts by repurposing them into sustainable ingredients and products. Check them out on Instagram.
A team of YCAI program participants developed a comprehensive guide that spotlights non-profit organizations in the GTA working to tackle issues of food waste and food insecurity issues. Access the resource here!
