Now Accepting Applications! 

Are you a young person who identifies as Indigenous or a young person living in northern Canada who has big ideas for how we can improve the future of food and farming in Canada?

If so, apply today to join the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council.

We’re looking for creative and outspoken Indigenous and northern youth who have a passion for food and farming and enjoy working in a team to find solutions and have impact. This high-profile, non-partisan, volunteer council meets regularly with key individuals at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to discuss the issues that matter the most to young people in food and farming. Together we look for ways to overcome challenges facing youth and build a vibrant future for food and farming in Canada that reflects the values and aspirations of young people from all walks of life. We welcome youth from northern Canada and those self-identifying as Indigenous to apply to the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council if they have experience, interest, and knowledge of food and/or farming, including traditional food systems and country foods, as a result of their upbringing, academic studies, volunteer work, current employment, or other life experiences.

What you need to know before applying to join the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council through the Indigenous and northern continuous recruitment process:

• To be eligible for the Indigenous and northern continuous recruitment for the Youth Council, you need to live in Canada as either a citizen, permanent resident, or foreign student. You must also identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) and/or live in the North (Northwest Territories, Nunavut, or Yukon, or above the 60^th parallel).

   Individuals who are not part of these targeted groups are welcome to apply to the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council in a future recruitment process.

• Priority will be given to applicants who are between 18 to 30 years old. Exceptions to this criteria may be considered for applicants who have unique backgrounds and whose specific perspectives are sought.

• When you apply, you will be asked to share information about yourself and your knowledge of food and/or farming. The application also requires the submission of three pre-recorded video interview questions.

• All applicants will be evaluated and selected based on their ability to contribute diverse perspectives to the Council, their demonstrated commitment to their community, and their approach to teamwork.

• The Youth Council will have up to 25 members, consisting of both new and returning members.

• If you are selected for the Youth Council, you will be notified and would be expected to start your volunteer commitment (term) shortly after.

• The Youth Council meetings take place virtually every two to three months, with one in-person meeting per year as a full council. In addition, members participate in working groups and in other government and industry initiatives. Meeting times vary and may take place in the morning, afternoon, or evening (depending on your time zone).

• Please note that membership on the council is voluntary. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will cover up to 100% of reasonable and appropriate travel and accommodation costs (as determined by the National Joint Council Travel Directive) that are directly related to a member’s participation in an in-person Youth Council meeting.

• More information about the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council including its current members, and details of past meetings can be found here.

Does this sound like the opportunity for you? 

Start your application today.