Become a voice for Black and racialized youth across Canada
Join the Thrive4Blacks Youth Advisory Council and help design, improve, and strengthen the programs built for youth like you — while building leadership skills and lasting connections along the way.
Youth insight, built into how we work
The Youth Advisory Council is a team of youth representatives who work alongside Thrive4Blacks staff and leadership to provide insight, recommendations, and feedback on our programs and initiatives.
Council members help make sure our programs stay relevant, impactful, and responsive to the communities we serve — and act as ambassadors who promote youth engagement and represent the perspectives of young people within the organization.
Members co-design programs directly with Thrive4Blacks staff — this isn't a token seat at the table.
11 seats, coast to coast
We're recruiting across three provinces so the council reflects the full breadth of Thrive4Blacks communities.
British Columbia
Alberta
Ontario
One council, three provinces. BC, Alberta and Ontario seats are recruited and reviewed together, so every region has an equal voice in shaping Thrive4Blacks programming.
Who can apply?
- Identify as Black or racialized youth
- Between 15 and 29 years old
- Living in BC, Alberta, or Ontario
- Passionate about leadership and advocacy
- Interested in making an impact in your community
- Curious about education, mental health, arts, entrepreneurship or culture
No previous leadership experience is required.
We value your passion, your ideas, and your lived experience — the rest, we'll help you build.
Roles and responsibilities
Here's what being a council member looks like day to day and season to season.
Represent youth voices within Thrive4Blacks
Promote the Thrivers Club and our mission
Attend scheduled council meetings
Review and help improve programs
Analyze participant feedback
Participate in quarterly program reviews
Support YEEP, our entrepreneurship program
Attend the annual Youth Leaders Conference
Serve as a Thrive4Blacks ambassador in your community
Benefits of joining
Honorarium
Expense reimbursement
Leadership development
Mentorship
Networking
Reference letter
Real community impact
Influence future programs
What the commitment looks like
Register as a Thriver, a Thrive4Blacks program participant
Sign a one-year commitment, renewable annually
Get parent or guardian consent if you're under 18
Show up and participate actively throughout the term
We believe youth programs should be designed with youth — not just for youth.— Thrive4Blacks
Building a movement for young people to thrive
Thrive4Blacks is a Canadian charity dedicated to empowering Black and underrepresented youth and families through mentorship, leadership development, education, entrepreneurship, mental health and wellness, cultural engagement, and community support.
Our mission is to equip young people with the knowledge, opportunities, and support they need to thrive and reach their full potential — with programs running in Surrey BC, Edmonton AB, and Milton ON.
Frequently asked questions
It is not a paid role — it's a volunteer role. Council members will receive a periodic honorarium, with the amount and frequency determined at the organization's discretion, and will be fully reimbursed for approved expenses related to council activities.
Members serve a one-year term, with the opportunity to renew annually.
No. We welcome applicants who are passionate about making a difference and eager to learn — experience isn't a requirement.
A Thriver is a registered participant in Thrive4Blacks programs. Selected applicants are required to register as a Thriver before joining the council.
Yes. Applicants must be at least 15 as of the application date. If you're under 18, you'll need parent or guardian consent before joining the council.
Ready to make an impact?
Applications are open now for the 2026–27 Youth Advisory Council. Bring your voice, your ideas, and your community — we'll help with the rest.
Contact us
We're happy to walk you through the application, timelines, or eligibility.