Canada Youth Changemakers Summit
2024 CYCS
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CYCS 2024 Recap:
Canadian High Schoolers Changing the World
“We're not just worried about being replaced by AI anymore. Now we have to worry about these high schoolers leaving us in the dust!” exclaimed Joel Butterly, a successful entrepreneur featured in Forbes magazine. What could prompt such astonishment from a seasoned business leader? The answer lies in the remarkable achievements showcased at the 3rd Canadian Youth Club Summit (CYCS) held on March 2nd at Toronto's Granite Club.​​
This year's CYCS, centered on the theme 'Empowering the Future,' brought together an impressive array of high school students aged 14-18 who have already made significant impacts in fields ranging from medical science and business finance to environmental protection and legal advocacy.
In an era where artificial intelligence dominates headlines, a group of teenagers aged 14 to 18 proved that human potential knows no bounds. These young visionaries showcased achievements that left attendees, judges, and media personnel utterly amazed and inspired.
Imagine high school students collaborating with Supreme Court justices, surgeons, and hundreds of lawyers. Picture them engaging in luminaries from Harvard University, The New York Times, and the World Bank. Now, watch as they turn these experiences into tangible actions that are changing the world.
The summit featured 11 finalist student organizations, selected from over 50 applicants, each presenting groundbreaking projects that left the audience, judges, and media in awe. Among the standout presentations:
$2,000
Changemaker Award
The New Gen:
Empowering Minority Youth in STEM and Arts
Winner of the prestigious $2000 Changemaker Award, The New Gen has expanded to 9 provinces in less than two years, impacting over 2000 students. Their initiatives include:
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Free STEM and art courses for minority youth
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High-profile art competitions and exhibitions
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"Supernova" podcast featuring world leaders from Harvard, The New York Times, and the World Bank
Their efforts have earned recognition from Canada's Minister of International Trade and Economic Development and garnered media attention from OMNI News and WQHS Radio at the University of Pennsylvania.
$1,500
Trailblazer Award
MaterialBank:
Bridging the Education Gap
Clinching the $1500 Trailblazer Award, MaterialBank tackles often overlooked educational barriers. Since 2023, they have:
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Donated over 12,000 stationery and art supplies
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Supported 10 non-profit organizations
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Raised over 3,000 CAD
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Expanded their influence to 6 partner schools through student ambassadors
$1,000 Heart Award
The Justice Blueprint:
Demystifying Law for the Public
Winning the $1000 Heart Award, The Justice Blueprint collaborates with top law firms to address the inequality in legal knowledge dissemination. They simplify complex legal concepts into accessible "blueprints," empowering high school students and the public with essential rights awareness.
$500
Rising Star Award
Dominion Mock Trial:
Nurturing Future Legal Eagles
Securing the $500 Rising Star Award, Dominion Mock Trial has created Canada's premier mock trial ecosystem. Their achievements include:
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Hosting 10 national competitions
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Attracting 1500+ student debaters from 4 provinces
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Recruiting 200+ legal experts as competition judges and mentors
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Collaborating with Supreme Court justices, district court judges, and political leaders
Canadian Youth Investors Society (CYIS)
Empowering Financial Literacy
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CYIS is revolutionizing financial education for youth across Canada, the US, and the UK. With 27 chapters across 6 Canadian provinces, they've nurtured over 1,000 young financial whizzes. Their partnerships include the Ontario CPA Association and Wealthsimple. But here's the kicker - they're not just teaching; they're putting money where their mouth is by organizing a national stock investment competition where students get real funds to invest!
Hope for Hearing
Amplifying Awareness for Hearing Impairments
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Founded by music-loving high schoolers, Hope for Hearing is on a mission to fundraise for hearing impairment issues and combat related stigma. In less than a year, they've:
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Raised over $10,000 for Sunnybrook Hospital's cochlear implant department
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Expanded to 14 schools
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Partnered with the Canadian Hearing Society and Ontario Science Centre
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Organized multicultural festivals, charity concerts, and educational workshops
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The Green Society
Global Environmentalism Goes Digital
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The Green Society (TGS) is proving that you don't need a physical presence to make a real-world impact. Operating entirely online, they've expanded to six countries in just a few months. Through international writing competitions and workshops, TGS is cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders across the US, Canada, China, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
Lasallian Youth Team
From Mentees to Mentors
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Embracing the motto "Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve," the Lasallian Youth Team focuses on student-led community service. Their four main projects address food security, elder care, environmental protection, and youth development. But what sets them apart is their unique mentorship model: younger students are guided by older ones, who in turn become mentors as they grow, creating a beautiful cycle of leadership and personal growth.
Simply Med
Unveiling the Mysteries of Medicine
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Simply Med is pulling back the curtain on the medical field, inspiring future healthcare professionals through engaging courses and activities. Their online summer course, "Steps to Understanding Medicine," covers everything from medical history to anatomy. But they don't stop at theory - they've partnered with breast surgeons to offer students a glimpse into the world of surgery and collaborated with six healthcare professionals to provide insights into medical careers.
Oakville Youth Group
Think Globally, Act Locally
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Since 2021, Oakville Youth Group has been proving that local action can have a big impact. Through book sales, debate competitions, and holiday card fundraisers, they've raised over $10,000 for the Halton Children's Aid Foundation. Their philosophy? Start small, make a real difference, and watch as local impacts snowball into global change.
Gen-Connect
Bridging Generations Through Music
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Gen-Connect is hitting all the right notes with their unique approach to intergenerational connection. By organizing live music performances in nursing homes, they're not only providing young musicians with valuable stage experience but also brightening the lives of seniors. Their harmonious efforts have earned praise from York Region News, 105.9 Radio, and public figures like Steven Lecce.
The Secret Sauce of Success
What sets these young achievers apart? Our observations and feedback from the judges reveal three critical success factors:
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Mastery of Storytelling: These students don't just list achievements; they weave compelling narratives that resonate with their audience, making their missions unforgettable.
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Embracing Uniqueness: From unexpected presentation hooks to innovative booth designs, each team found ways to stand out. Gen-connect's Brianna even concluded their pitch with a stunning original song, leaving an indelible impression on all attendees.
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Proactive Resource Seeking: Success isn't handed out; it's actively pursued. These high schoolers demonstrated remarkable initiative in seeking collaborations, mentorships, and opportunities that many adults would envy.
Media Coverage
& Photo Gallery
Platinum Sponsor
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Beyond the Spotlight
While 11 outstanding student organizations took center stage, CYCS 2024 featured over 20 additional student groups and renowned local/international non-profits. These organizations span a diverse range of causes, from music and arts to social entrepreneurship, animal rescue, mental health, educational equity, environmental protection, women's rights, and immigrant integration.
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The Canadian Youth Club Summit isn't just an event; it's a breeding ground for tomorrow's leaders. As we witness these high school students tackle global challenges with innovation, passion, and determination, one thing becomes clear: the future is in capable hands.
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