Executive Council
August 12, 2015

Connecting Youth and Strengthening Communities

Provincial Government Celebrates International Youth Day

The Provincial Government is joining the international community today in celebrating International Youth Day. The 2015 International Youth Day theme is Youth Civic Engagement, which highlights young people's civic engagement at all levels.

"International Youth Day is a day to recognize the contributions youth make to the world, and to continue the discussion on how they can be actively involved in their communities. The Provincial Government also wants to ensure youth have a meaningful voice in policy development and decision-making. From seeking their feedback for the All-Party Committee on Mental Health and Addictions to incorporating their vision in the Population Growth Strategy, we are committed to ensuring that youth voices are heard in this province."
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister Responsible for the Office of Public Engagement

The Office of Public Engagement's Youth Engagement Office works to establish a host of positive learning experiences for youth which will help equip them with the skills necessary to excel in the future. This work includes the Getting the Message Out program and its civic engagement component, province-wide leadership sessions designed to encourage young women to become active in politics and community leadership roles, and the Premier's Youth Advisory Committee.

"International Youth Day is a day that draws attention to youth-related matters. The theme this year, civic engagement, prompts that young people be given a voice in decision-making. Involving youth in all aspects of government is crucial to ensure fresh perspectives are heard and new ideas thrive. By ensuring our youth are involved in civic engagement today, we ensure a brighter future for tomorrow."
- Noubahar Hasnain, Premier's Youth Advisory Committee Member

In celebration of International Youth Day and of the contributions of young leaders to communities in the province, the Office of Public Engagement is sharing youth perspectives on what it means to be civically engaged throughout the day on Twitter. Follow along at @OPE_GovNL .

For a complete list of International Youth Day activities taking place at the 34 Community Youth Networks in the province, visit www.nlyouth.ca/ProgramsServices/CYN.html.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is joining the international community today in celebrating International Youth Day.
• The 2015 International Youth Day theme is Youth Civic Engagement, which highlights young people's civic engagement at all levels.
• Since 2012-13, the Provincial Government has provided more than $2.1 million to programs and services delivered through Grants to Youth Organizations.
• Budget 2015 includes over $2.5 million for 34 Community Youth Networks across the province.
• With youth as an essential partner, Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's 10-year plan to support individuals and families.For more information visitwww.gov.nl.ca/populationgrowth/.

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Media contacts:

Kip Bonnell Communications Manager Office of Public Engagement 709-729-1221, 687-9081 kbonnell@gov.nl.ca

Noubahar Hasnain Premier's Youth Advisory Committee nhasnain@hotmail.com

2015 08 12                              1:00 p.m.