Making Change Happen through EWB’s Day of Action!
Every year, EWB invites 60-70 young leaders to Ottawa for workshops and a Day of Action. The 3-day event builds participants’ understanding of Canadian democratic institutions, processes and policymakers, knowledge of Canada’s international development policies and contributions, and community organizing skills. It also gives these young leaders the opportunity to use their skills and knowledge through meetings with Members of Parliament.
For many it’s a life-changing experience.
“I was blown away by the accessibility of the opportunity,” says Stephannie Veenbaas. “Many Canadians don’t feel like political processes are accessible, which results in a lack of empowerment. I learned how important it is to know what you’re talking about and to be challenged, so that you can strengthen what it is we think we know. EWB’s Day of Action also impacted my desire to continue being engaged. I’m finding new mechanisms or avenues to get involved and stay involved.”
While Canada’s youth voter turnout remains low – just 38.8% in 2011 and 57.1% in 2015 – this doesn’t mean youth are less interested in politics. In fact, research and experts suggest that young Canadians participate in other political activities, such as attending political events, marching in protests, signing petitions and volunteering, more than older generations.
So how can the formal systems of government be made more accessible to youth as well?
EWB’s Day of Action is one important way, as it demystifies government policymaking and processes, and gives youth practical skills and a chance to practice them. This year’s event will take place from April 29 to May 1, and focus on innovative development and finance.
Will you help make change happen?!
Here are 3 ways to be a changemaker and support a changemaker:
- Invest in young leaders! Chip in $10 to help us continue our work to create these engaging events to further increase the development of our young leaders!
- 1. Send a letter of support! Contact Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, Marie-Claude Bibeau, or your local MP, to let them know that you support Canada’s innovative development and financing for the SDGs and EWB’s recommendations.mmendations.
- Join our community of changemakers! Stay in the loop about all of our policy and advocacy campaigns, events and publications by signing up to our e-newsletter.
“EWB’s Day of Action made me know for sure that this work is effective and made me feel like I was doing something great,” says Alain Chelala. “I wanted to do it all over again! Being involved with EWB has helped me push my limits and helped me find skills that I didn’t know I had.”
That’s a change worth making.
Learn More
- Learn more about our #Hello2030 campaign
