Thousands of Local Youth Inspired at 2025 Youth Symposium

A total of over 3,000 grade 8 students and their teachers came from nearly 50 local public, Catholic, and independent schools for the 18th annual edition of this unique program. The three-day event took place at Galaxy Cineplex Cinemas on April 15 in Guelph and April 16 and 17 in Waterloo.

You can see photos from the event in this slideshow video on our social media pages!

In the media! Check out this wonderful GuelphToday article created by Santana Bellantoni.

Positive Messages Delivered

The multitude of youth in attendance heard from an amazing line-up of professional speakers. They included a magician, acrobat, stunt person, boxer, wrestler, former police sergeant, and more. What do all these speakers have in common? A big heart for making a difference in the lives of young people.

The wide variety of topics included dreaming big, setting SMART goals, resiliency, overcoming challenges, healthy dating relationships, volunteering, school spirit, and showing kindness. The energy and enthusiasm in the theatres was palpable.

It was also a special opportunity to learn from our Child Witness Centre representatives about the work we do in Waterloo Region, Guelph, and Wellington County. Last year alone, we supported 1,088 child and youth victims of abuse and crime through the criminal justice system, along with 827 caregivers.

Why The Program Matters

This big multi-day event is focused on inspiring, educating, and encouraging youth at an important time in their personal development. The program is strategically scheduled in April to reach grade 8 students before they begin high school later in the year.

The feedback from students and teachers is overwhelmingly positive.

One youth shared what they learned is "Strive for who you want to be. Never give up. Don't listen to anyone who tries to get in your way." Another student said their biggest takeaway is, "As long as you stay resilient, you can accomplish amazing things."
A teacher stated, "All the speakers delivered an excellent and important message that students this age need to hear." Another teacher said they’ll continue discussing in class, "Focus on the positive. Don't dwell on the negative. Mindset can change perspective."

Immense Gratitude

We would like to thank all our wonderful event sponsors (found below), volunteers, presenters, local police, and everyone else who helped make this very meaningful event a huge success! With the support of the community, over 40,000 students have now been impacted since the program began in 2003.

At Child Witness Centre, we're already looking forward to our 2026 Youth Symposium! We feel it's difficult to overstate the value found in building up young people through this initiative. It prompts countless positive outcomes in young lives, and a ripple effect of benefits for years to come.

Learn more about Youth Symposium here!