YEG Youth Connect is very dear to my heart, and I am so grateful that the work I do as a Youth Liaison allows me to be a part of this team. A lot of time, energy, and love goes into making sure this event is the best it can be, year after year – and I’m so proud of what we have accomplished. There is power in numbers – when we all come together to make this event happen, we not only connect the youth to the supports and services that they need in a more holistic way, but we also send the message that they are very much seen, heard, and cared for.
I identify as Plains Cree from Frog Lake First Nation, Treaty 6 Territory, but have called Edmonton my home for most of my life.
I didn’t choose Youth Work; Youth Work chose me, and I have been thriving ever since I was called to this field of work. Representation for youth is vital to creating a meaningful impact that will spark change. I hope to spark change everywhere I go and with every person I meet. That is why my role on the YEG-Youth Connect committee has been important in the work I do.
As Community Librarian at the Strathcona Branch of EPL, I work closely with a number of youth-serving agencies to support YEG’s young people. I’m very excited to be part of this team and this great event – it’s a labour of love that can only happen thanks to the hard work of everyone on the team and in the community!
As a Capacity Building Facilitator with HIV Edmonton, I get to help support our community and create momentum for change. I believe in the power of events like Youth Connect to contribute to positive social change in our community by supporting Youth. I am delighted to now get the opportunity to contribute to such an amazing event!
Ryan was interested in working with youth and came into his current position by chance, now he has been a youth worker since 2021 and is very excited to be a part of the YEG Youth Connect this year. Ryan has had the chance to connect with many agencies in the Edmonton area, and has gained knowledge of services available and how he can better support youth to ensure their voice is heard!