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.
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.
What's New
With deepest gratitude for your support, we are delighted to share our 2023-24 Annual Report.
A stronger helping hand for local child victims in minority groups.
With deepest gratitude for your support, we are delighted to share our 2023-24 Annual Report.