YWCA Youth Council to create a safe space where young women can connect and develop skills

YWCA Muskoka is launching a virtual youth council and is inviting young women, aged 14-30, from across the region to participate.

Youth council meetings will focus on topics and skills to support young women in their personal growth as well as give them a safe space in which to meet like-minded women in the area.

“We want the council to be a safe space for women with no pressure, no expectations, and a place where they can feel supported,” said program facilitator Allison Holder. “We want to give them the chance to meet other women they may not have otherwise met while also learning practical skills.”

Examples of topics the youth council may discuss include how to cope with COVID-19, building personal brand, mindfulness, self-care and feminism in a small town, financial literacy and more.

“I want women to feel less alone during this tough time,” said Holder. “Women need extra support now more than ever, especially moving into the colder weather it will be harder for people to get together with COVID restrictions.”

In addition to the educational and support aspect of the council, Holder has planned some activities for the women including a virtual yoga class, a book club, and a visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park to snowshoe, go on a nature hike, and discuss the history of the land.

Those between the ages of 14-30 who identify as female are welcome to join.

“With the large age range it will allow for a bit of mentorship between women as we all have different life experiences and are at different places in our lives,” said Holder.

Meetings will be held the third Monday of every month, beginning November 16 at 7 p.m. and finishing in April. Typically the council would meet in person but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the monthly meetings will take place on Google Meet.

The first session will be a trial meeting so the young women can see what it’s all about with no commitments. All participants in the first session will receive a $10 Tim Hortons gift card.

YWCA Canada obtained funding for youth councils across the country and Muskoka was chosen as one of the locations.

To sign up or ask any questions about the YWCA Youth Council, contact Allison Holder at [email protected].

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