Youth Leadership and Climate Action Program
Empower yourself with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to take meaningful action on climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Program Overview
The Youth Leadership in Climate Action (YLCA) course equips young people with the tools to understand climate challenges and lead positive environmental change. Through the program, participants strengthen core leadership skills, deepen their understanding of climate science, and explore the important role youth play in shaping a sustainable future.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The course consists of three modules: Leadership, Climate Science and Action, and Leadership in Action.
Each module blends information, activities, and discussion-based learning. Participants explore leadership principles, climate advocacy, and practical strategies for environmental action — supported by exercises that assess learning and encourage engagement with peers from diverse backgrounds.
By the end of the program, participants will have a clearer understanding of climate issues and the confidence to lead initiatives that create real impact in their communities.
TIME COMMITMENTS
Each module takes no more than two hours and includes short video lessons, activities, and discussions. The flexible structure allows participants to work at their own pace, though regular study time and goal-setting are recommended to maintain momentum.
RECOMMENDATIONS
While the program can be completed independently, we encourage learners to invite friends, classmates, or teammates to explore the content together. Collaborative discussion supports deeper understanding and strengthens collective leadership around climate action.
Our Approach
This climate leadership program for youth was created by Children Now following the International Symposium on Youth Leadership and Climate Action held in July 2021. Developed in Montreal and informed by international collaboration, this program supports youth across Canada and beyond.
The program is shaped by key themes identified in collaboration with experts and like-minded organizations:
ENVIRONMENTAL AND HOLISTIC EDUCATION
Raising awareness of local and global environmental issues, climate change, and resource conservation, while encouraging creative solutions.
TRANSFORMING CITIES AND COMMUNITIES TO LOW CARBON
Supporting policies and planning that reduce community carbon footprints and encourage sustainable living.
REGENERATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Encouraging the development of technologies that are sustainable and prioritize the well-being of both communities and the planet.
AFFORESTATION AND BIODIVERSITY
Strengthening forest cover, restoring natural habitats, and protecting biodiversity.
ECOLOGICAL CONSCIOUSNESS
Promoting a nature- and eco-centric mindset that fosters respect for the Earth, humanity, and all living species.
LEADERSHIP VALUES FOR YOUTH
Cultivating empathy, love, positivity, inclusiveness, respect for diversity, family values, and environmental stewardship.
These guiding principles offer youth the knowledge, skills, and values they need to lead responsibly, advocate for sustainability, and inspire meaningful change.
Join a growing community of youth committed to creating a more sustainable future.
Sign up today and start building the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to make a meaningful environmental impact.
