By Selina Hunt, Youth Programs Officer
We are delighted to announce the return of our popular youth ambassador program, this time under the new name of the Fabien Leboeuf Youth Ambassador Program. This program is one way we are honouring the legacy of Fabien Leboeuf, who was a close friend of Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada, a past executive director, and a passionate champion of youth engagement. We hope that his example of leadership, perseverance and living out Catholic Social Teaching will inspire all who participate in the program.
This relaunch is taking place at the request of involved youth members, staff and the membership of Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada. Our Public Engagement department will soon hire one Youth Ambassador each for Western Canada; Ontario; Quebec and francophone New Brunswick; and Atlantic Canada.
This position is designed for a young person interested in working in the field of international solidarity. Working collaboratively with regional animators and myself in my capacity as Youth Programs Officer, each Youth Ambassador will spearhead our regional youth outreach and engagement efforts. This could mean developing new youth outreach strategies and leading regional youth events related to education, advocacy or fundraising. Being a part of the Public Engagement Department is an excellent place to learn how to mobilize young Canadians around global issues that impact us all!
Here’s what Jeremy Laurie has to say about his experience serving as a youth ambassador under the previous iteration of the program, which last ran in 2017:
“The Youth Ambassador program laid the foundation for my current employment with D&P as the animator for British Columbia and the Yukon. During my time in the University of British Columbia’s international relations program, it was difficult to find part-time, paid employment geared towards those interested in global issues.
“The YA position allowed me to learn about various social justice topics and, most importantly, the ability to articulate and present those concerns to others. Having the direct mentorship of many wonderful D&P members and staff, coupled with the hands-on experience of supporting a provincial young adult network, was incredibly rewarding.
“The program was flexible in allowing me to continue my studies, while also being immersive and practical enough to be an important building block in my professional life.”
If you know any young adults who might be interested in working with us and diving into the world of international solidarity, please send them the job posting. And don’t hesitate to apply yourself if you fit the bill!
For more information, please contact me, Selina Hunt, at shunt@devp.org.
