Young people have long been at the forefront of grassroots social change, but their voices are too often ignored in more institutional settings. Shifting organizational culture to better support young leaders could mean more progress for the causes these organizations work toward.
In 2020, Canada only completed eight of the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action — one less than 2019. Indigenous knowledge and ways of being inherently respect other people and the planet — and if Indigenous youth policy leaders had an equal voice at decision-making tables, they could radically impact issues from the environment to racial equity, wealth distribution, and more.
Young people in Canada are struggling. A majority of youth report deteriorating mental health since the pandemic began. Youth unemployment rates are still at a high. And the services vulnerable youth rely on are at risk.
According to MENTOR Canada’s 2020 national research, youth who had a formal mentor were three times more likely to report good self-rated mental health. Meanwhile, the pandemic has meant a huge increase in demand for mental health services among young people.
Lasting impact can happen when organizations empower and encourage young leaders to create bold change from within. They help build stronger communities, increase economic opportunity and growth, and improve the quality of life of Canadians. A deeper understanding of young intrapreneurs’ stories will help the social impact sector thrive.
Young people who are mentored are 53 percent more likely to report good mental health, and more than twice as likely to report a strong sense of belonging in their community. At a time when youths’ mental wellbeing and career prospects are limited by the pandemic, an equitable recovery requires a stronger culture of mentorship across the country.
