August 12 marks International Youth Day, a global reminder of the importance of supporting youth as they navigate increasing levels of uncertainty. Lasting impacts of the pandemic have caused unprecedented loneliness and isolation. At the same time, the evolving technological landscape is changing the way youth learn, connect, and discover their voice. For youth, opportunities for meaningful self-expression, creativity, and connection are more important than ever.

Every week, Writers Collective of Canada (WCC) witnesses the powerful voice that youth hold and the community and creativity ignited when given the time, space, and encouragement to write together.

I’ve seen writing become a doorway: to identity, to healing, to community. When a young writer chooses a bold word, reads their piece aloud, or listens with care, transformation happens – sometimes subtly, sometimes profoundly. Once someone realizes the value of their voice, they become unstoppable. – Kook Hu, WCC facilitator

Across partnerships we see this transformation unfold in different ways.

At McGill University, WCC workshops offer students a space to write without the expectations or structure often found in academic writing. Through deep listening and affirmation, students are able to develop confidence in their own voices – for some, that transformation doesn’t end when the workshop does.

Tamara Achtman from the McGill University Student Wellness Hub says: “The impact is tangible. Two McGill students who first joined as participants were inspired by the experience and went on to become WCC facilitators themselves. Their journey speaks to the powerful sense of voice, purpose, and community these workshops can cultivate.”

At LOFT-TAY, WCC workshops support transitional-age youth (TAY) navigating life challenges including housing insecurity, mental health concerns, and family instability. Each participant arrives with their own experiences and WCC workshops are able to provide an affirming space for self-expression, deep listening, and community building.

One of the things that I guess was surprising, has been the amount of people that have got together outside of the group that have met through this group, to go on to do other creative endeavours. – Camilla O’Shea, LOFT-TAY

Across communities, partner organizations, and the country, WCC workshops create spaces where every voice is welcomed and every story is acknowledged.

I’ve seen firsthand the healing impact of creating a brave space for young writers. It allows them to release emotions, gain self-awareness, and build confidence. In these spaces, they find a supportive environment where their voices are valued, which helps them explore and articulate their inner experiences. -Danielle Nevado, WCC Facilitator

Growing into your voice rarely happens alone. It happens when you know you have been heard and your story has been affirmed. This International Youth Day, we celebrate not only the voices of youth, but the communities that make those voices heard.