Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Youth Advisory Council 2026/2027: Fully Immersive Leadership Opportunity for Young Environmental Changemakers in Canada
The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada is inviting passionate and impact-driven youth to apply for the 2026/2027 Youth Advisory Council (YAC), an exciting leadership and volunteer opportunity designed for young people who are committed to creating positive change for people, animals, and the environment.
The Youth Advisory Council is one of the flagship youth engagement initiatives under the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada. Through this programme, selected young leaders will collaborate with peers across Canada to influence programming, co-design environmental and social impact projects, and contribute directly to conversations surrounding biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental inequity.
This opportunity is specifically designed for youth aged 18–30 who will reside in Canada throughout the programme term from July 2026 to June 2027. The initiative welcomes applicants from all immigration statuses, provided they are living in Canada during the entire fellowship period.
About the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Youth Advisory Council
The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) serves as a platform for empowering young voices in environmental leadership and advocacy. The council ensures that youth perspectives and lived experiences remain central to the development and implementation of programs led by the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada.
Participants will engage in:
- Leadership development
- Project management
- Environmental advocacy
- Collaborative programme design
- Youth engagement initiatives
- Community-centered environmental solutions
- National youth networking opportunities
The YAC focuses on addressing three interconnected global crises:
- Biodiversity loss
- Climate change
- Environmental inequity
Through collaborative action and innovative thinking, council members contribute to meaningful environmental and social change within Canada and beyond.
Why the Youth Advisory Council Matters
Young people are increasingly at the forefront of environmental and social justice movements globally. The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada recognizes the importance of empowering youth with the tools, networks, and opportunities needed to influence sustainable futures.
The YAC creates a space where youth can:
- Influence real organizational programming
- Build national connections
- Strengthen advocacy skills
- Gain professional development experience
- Participate in meaningful environmental initiatives
- Collaborate with like-minded changemakers
The programme also amplifies youth voices across national and global networks connected to the Jane Goodall Institute.
Benefits of Joining the YAC
Selected participants will gain access to numerous personal, professional, and leadership development opportunities.
1. Leadership Development
Members will strengthen their leadership capacity through active participation in environmental and youth-focused initiatives.
2. Project Management Experience
Participants will co-design and implement projects connected to sustainability, biodiversity, climate justice, and environmental equity.
3. National Networking Opportunities
YAC members will connect with passionate youth leaders from various regions across Canada.
4. Professional Development Opportunities
Participants gain access to workshops, mentorship opportunities, and professional growth experiences.
5. Travel Opportunities
The programme offers travel opportunities for current and alumni YAC members where applicable.
6. Collaboration with a Globally Recognized Organization
Participants become connected to the internationally respected Jane Goodall Institute network.
7. Youth Voice Amplification
Council members contribute directly to shaping programme direction and ensuring youth perspectives are represented in organizational activities.
What Participants Will Do
Members of the Youth Advisory Council are expected to:
- Participate in meetings and collaborative sessions
- Contribute ideas for youth-centered programming
- Engage in environmental advocacy activities
- Work on self-directed and co-designed projects
- Collaborate with fellow youth leaders
- Support awareness and outreach initiatives
- Help shape the direction of Canada Programs within JGIC
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Youth passionate about environmental sustainability
- Climate advocates and environmental activists
- Students interested in leadership and social impact
- Young professionals seeking volunteer leadership experience
- Community organizers
- Biodiversity conservation advocates
- Individuals committed to environmental justice and equity
- Youth interested in global environmental issues
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026/2027 Youth Advisory Council, applicants must:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.
Residency Requirement
Applicants must reside in Canada for the entire duration of the term:
- July 2026 to June 2027
The opportunity is available regardless of immigration status, provided applicants will remain in Canada during the programme term.
Passion and Commitment
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Commitment to positive social and environmental change
- Interest in youth leadership
- Passion for sustainability and advocacy
- Willingness to collaborate with peers
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the 2026/2027 JGIC Youth Advisory Council is:
May 22, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and prepare thoughtful responses that reflect their passion, leadership experiences, and commitment to environmental and social impact.
Application Process
Applicants are required to complete the Official Application Form and provide:
- Full legal name
- Preferred name (if applicable)
- Birth year
- Pronouns
- Contact information
- Canadian city and province of residence
- Referral source or how they heard about the opportunity
The organization may contact applicants for interviews or clarifying questions during the selection process.
Notification Timeline
The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada has indicated that applicants will receive updates regarding their application status on or before:
June 1, 2026
Important Residency Note
This opportunity is strictly limited to youth who will be physically residing in Canada for the entirety of the July 2026 – June 2027 term.
Applicants who:
- Do not currently live in Canada permanently, or
- Anticipate leaving Canada during the programme period
may not be invited to participate in the Youth Advisory Council.
Please click HERE to learn more about the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Youth Advisory Council, 2026/2027.
Contact Information
For questions regarding the Youth Advisory Council, Roots & Shoots, or the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, applicants may contact:
Discover more global Fellowship opportunities on OFY HERE.
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