Our Story

Dear Future YEG began as a community-based project co-founded by Edmonton’s Cohort 13 of Apathy is Boring’s RISE program. When the project concluded in June 2025, five team members remained committed to the vision and transformed it into an independent, youth-led initiative.

Today, Dear Future YEG is rooted in building an inclusive and accessible community of young changemakers. We empower youth aged 16–35 in Edmonton to grow personally and professionally through meaningful community engagement, while creating space for advocacy and action at both local and global levels.

Built by youth, for youth, Dear Future YEG exists to make civic empowerment approachable, especially for those navigating early career stages or who are new to community work. We support young people through resource-sharing, leadership development, and opportunities that foster confidence, connection, and purpose.

Why We Exist

Across Edmonton and Canada, many young people face barriers to civic participation and struggle to access clear, reliable information about opportunities, careers, and community involvement. Youth often report feeling disconnected from decision-making processes and uncertain about where to find opportunities that align with their values and goals.

These challenges are even more pronounced for marginalized youth, who may not see themselves reflected in leadership or civic spaces. The post-pandemic landscape has further intensified these barriers, with fewer in-person networking opportunities and rising levels of anxiety and burnout among young people.

Through community consultations, we identified a strong need for inclusive and accessible spaces where youth can build practical skills—such as resume writing, civic literacy, and advocacy—while also developing supportive peer networks that prioritize well-being.

What We Do

Dear Future YEG addresses this gap by creating a trusted, youth-led platform where young people can learn, connect, and take action. Our work blends accessible education, storytelling, creativity, and mentorship to transform community engagement into a meaningful learning experience.

We serve as both a connector and a catalyst, amplifying opportunities already available in Edmonton while designing new spaces for civic dialogue, skill-building, and professional growth. Through youth-led workshops, events, and a growing resource hub, we help young people turn learning into local impact.

Our Impact & Values

Our work aligns with four United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 4: Quality Education: by increasing access to resources that help youth build knowledge and relevant skills for sustainable futures

  • SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth: by promoting youth employment, education, and training opportunities

  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: through an accessible platform that supports equitable access to information and opportunities

  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: by collaborating with community organizations to strengthen knowledge-sharing and innovation

What sets Dear Future YEG apart is our integrated model. Rather than duplicating existing programs, we strengthen and connect them — creating a one-stop hub where young people in Edmonton can find the tools, knowledge, and community they need to thrive.