Under the direction of the NIYC Coordinator, the 10 youth involved in this group will promote civic and democratic engagement among Inuit youth by giving them opportunities to practice leadership and participate in decision-making around issues that impact them.
The NIYC will meet monthly with involvement and leadership provided jointly by the Office of Communications and the Office of the President. The opportunity to meet with NCC’s Governing Council will allow the participants to create a supportive network for the NIYC and learn about NCC’s overall governance system.
The NIYC will be involved with the design and decision-making around their volunteer placements. They will have opportunity to incorporate cultural elements into their activities to strengthen the connection between civic engagement and Indigenous heritage. They will organize community events that celebrate and preserve culture and foster a sense of identity and pride.
Community consultations with youth will identify key issues affecting Inuit youth at both local and regional levels and provide opportunities for NIYC participants to practice leadership skills by advocating on behalf of the concerns and interests of Inuit youth at the local and regional level.
Leadership workshops, some of which will be offered virtually, will focus on fostering skills such as public speaking, negotiation and community organizing. The NIYC will collaborate with experienced mentors and leaders to provide guidance and share valuable insights.
The NIYC will learn about Canada’s democratic institutions, both federal and provincial, by travelling to Ottawa and St. John’s to view governmental proceedings. They will also meet with various leaders in both levels of government that will provide them with opportunities to learn more about the different aspects of governance.
The NIYC will also participate in the planning of NCC’s Annual General Assembly as well as facilitating break-out sessions as needed to engage community members in related proceedings. The AGA is typically held early in the calendar year.