Youth Symposium

Adolescence can be an exciting but challenging time for many young people. Youth Symposium is a meaningful program that equips youth with confidence, inspiration, and empowerment to thrive – both now and well into the future!

Our 2024 Youth Symposium was a huge success! It was wonderful being back for the 17th annual edition, after being cancelled since 2019. Over 3,000 grade 8 students and their teachers attended from nearly 50 local schools. They heard from our incredible presenters, who spoke on a variety of important life topics. Learn more about what took place here.

You can also find more information in our 2024 Youth Symposium brochure, including presentation descriptions.

Youth Symposium is held on three consecutive days, reaching over 800 grade 8 students and their teachers from Guelph and Wellington County on the first day, and an additional 2,200+ attendees from Waterloo Region on the second and third days. Since it began in 2003, this unique program has welcomed more than 40,000 students!

Some of the best speakers in the country for youth audiences deliver powerful presentations on issues like bullying, personal accountability, substance abuse, resiliency, risk taking, and healthy dating. These are all valuable messages for the physical, emotional, and mental health of students, as they prepare to begin high school. Each presenter uses a different style and approach that adapts to a variety of learning styles, ensuring the day’s messages resonate with everyone.

Students remain with their class and dialogue is encouraged between themselves, teachers, and presenters. By teachers participating with their students, the learning can more easily continue back in the classroom.

Feedback from Students

“It’s easy to make mistakes, but it’s how we move on from them that truly says who we are.”

“I realized that every decision I make, every step I take, I should reflect on my actions whether they be good or bad.”

“I liked how all the presenters had a story to tell, but they told it in different ways, and they related their stories to us in order to teach us something.”

“Very inspirational. The story that was shared made me believe I can achieve anything.”

“Love this! I want to come back again next year!”

Feedback from Teachers

“These opportunities are difference makers for kids. It can’t be found in a textbook.”

“Very empowering, worthwhile, touched on real issues happening right now in schools.”

“Dynamic, energetic, inspirational, humorous!”

“Excellent opportunity for students to understand that there is help, to hear information from presenters and community representatives that support school messages.”

“Awesome messages that were very heartfelt and relevant in the minds of Grade 8’s.”

2024 Youth Symposium Sponsors

Thank you to our 2024 sponsors for making this program possible and affordable for so many local youth!

We are grateful for everyone who has been part of Youth Symposium over the 17 editions it has run! The program has been successful through the dedication of presenters, teachers, volunteers, and sponsors.

For more information about Youth Symposium, contact Linda Mark at linda.mark@childwitness.com.