Youth Council

Join the Oshawa Youth Council (O.Y.C.)

Check back in August for more information about the 2026-2027 O.Y.C. application process.

2026 Oshawa Youth Council members

What is the Oshawa Youth Council?

The Oshawa Youth Council is a committee of Youth who work together to enhance the recreation and leisure opportunities for youth in Oshawa. Council members work together to share ideas, provide input, and support youth in our community.

Youth Council members must be an Oshawa resident in grades 6-12.

O.Y.C. goals

Developing and maintaining the principles and practices for the (O.Y.C.)
Providing opportunities for youth leadership, personal growth, and skill development
Encouraging active participation and engagement in the community
Supporting and participating in community events, volunteer initiatives, and special projects
Raising awareness of issues affecting youth and advocating for their needs
Identifying and promoting youth services, programs, and resources available throughout Oshawa
Providing feedback and recommendations to City of Oshawa staff to strengthen youth engagement and ensure youth voices are reflected in decision-making
Promoting and communicating youth events, services, programs, and initiatives
Developing action plans and prioritizing projects based on feedback from local youth
Recruiting and welcoming new members to help grow the O.Y.C.
Building a sustainable O.Y.C. that empowers youth to make a positive impact in their community
Establishing a decision-making process to guide youth-led initiatives, including events such as National Youth Week
Creating opportunities for members to develop leadership, teamwork, communication, and social skills
Having fun while making a difference in the community!

Oshawa Youth Council roles

Youth Leaders (Grades 6-9)

Attend monthly meetings, with some months including a second meeting for workshops or special projects
Vote on matters, initiatives, and recommendations brought forward to Youth Council
Share ideas, perspectives and feedback on issues affecting youth in Oshawa
Identify and discuss emerging trends, needs, and opportunities impacting youth in Oshawa

Youth Mentors (Grades 10-12)

Represent the interests of youth in Oshawa, by participating in discussions with public and private stakeholders
Provide input and recommendations on issues, initiatives, and opportunities that impact youth in Oshawa
Take on leadership and mentorship roles by supporting and guiding Youth Leaders
One Youth Mentor will serve as the Chair of the Youth Council and will be responsible for working with staff to prepare meeting agendas and help facilitate regular meetings

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must be Oshawa residents.
Applicants must be in Grades 6-12 or between the ages of 13-18
Participation in O.Y.C. meetings, events, and planning activities is eligible for community involvement (volunteer) hours
Additional volunteer opportunities and leadership roles may be available and could require extra time and commitment
Applications must include a parent or guardian's signature.

Meet some of our members

Aditya

Hello, my name is Aditya. I am in eighth grade and have joined the Oshawa Youth Council to gain experiences that will help me to gain employable skills. Outside of the Oshawa Youth Council, I play badminton and am on the cross-country team. The Oshawa Youth Council is a great place to grow and get involved within the community, I recommend that everyone give the council a shot.

Paisley

Hi, my name is Paisley I am in the ninth grade and am the Co-Vice President of the Oshawa Youth Council. I joined the Oshawa Youth Council when I was in sixth grade, and this is my fourth year on the council. I love to volunteer with the Oshawa Youth Council because I want to make a positive impact on the community. Outside of the Oshawa Youth Council, I am part of a running club, and I love to spend time outdoors with my sisters!

Grace

Hi, my name is Grace and I am the Co-President of the Oshawa Youth Council. I joined the Oshawa Youth council to enhance my leadership skills and to give back to my community and to build new connections. At school, I am a grade 11 minister on my student council and am on my schools leadership committee. In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to concerts, and spending time with my mom.

Muhammad

My name is Muhammad and I am currently in high school. I joined the Oshawa Youth Council as I have an interest in community services and discussing civic issues. Outside of school, I love to go swimming and volunteer at the local nursing home.