Youth Changemaker Leadership Institute
Introducing a summer opportunity that could change your child’s life, and maybe even the world! The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is launching the Youth Changemaker Leadership Institute, the first program of its kind in Simcoe County and Muskoka, along with Georgian College.
The Youth Changemaker Leadership Institute is a dynamic one-week program designed to inspire and equip youth aged 9-14 (grades 5-8) with the tools to create meaningful change in their schools and communities. Youth will be introduced to the #ChangeTheNow framework of change making and human centered design thinking through fun and engaging activities while exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). During this program youth will use their creativity to envision and co-design ideas for green, sustainable, peaceful, and just futures.
Program Details:
Week 1: Collingwood
Dates: July 14 to 18, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Location: 499 Raglan St., Collingwood (Georgian College – South Georgian Bay)
Cost: $275
Week 2: Orillia
Dates: July 21 to 25, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Location: 825 Memorial Ave., Orillia (Georgian College – Orillia)
Cost: $275
Week 3: Bracebridge
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Location: 111 Wellington St., Bracebridge (Georgian College – Muskoka)
Cost: $275
Week 4: Midland
Dates: August 11 to 15, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Location: 560 Little Lake Park Rd., Midland (Midland YMCA)
Cost: $275
Week 5: Barrie
Dates: August 18 to 22, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Location: 121 Commerce Park Drive, Unit A, Barrie ON L4N 8X1 (Barrie Chamber of Commerce Community Innovation Lab)
Cost: $275
Registration is now open through the YMCA Online Portal. Spaces are limited, financial assistance is available.
Scholarship Opportunity
We’re excited to announce that we are offering 25 scholarships for youth to attend the Youth Changemaker Leadership Institute this summer!
As part of our ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of leaders, five youth will be selected from each of the five communities where the program is available across Simcoe County and Muskoka. These scholarships will cover the full cost of this dynamic, one-week leadership experience designed to inspire and equip young people with the skills and confidence needed to drive meaningful change in their communities.
How to Apply: Youth interested in applying for the scholarship can submit their applications by Sunday, April 27. Scholarship winners will be chosen on Wednesday, April 30. Scholarships are limited, and the YMCA encourages families to apply early to secure a spot.
Presented in partnership with:
