About NYiS
Northern Youth in Service (NYiS), helps youth create and deliver projects within their home communities. You do not need an idea or plan to apply!
Participants get individual support, training, and resources to successfully design and deliver a project. A “project” can be any sort of idea – it can be a program, an event, a group, a place, an activity… projects can be anything you can dream of that can help your community!
Youth can start projects alone, with friends, with other youth from different communities, in networks, as part of a class project- if you have an idea or want to work on a team let us know on your application.
Successful applicants for our 2024 program will attend a training week in Ottawa, around February 14-21st. There is no cost for Participants.
Who can apply?
Anyone from Nunavut, the NWT, or Yukon who is 15-25 years old can apply. We are looking for youth who are excited about starting a project, who are or want to become leaders, and who want to make a difference in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NYiS?
NYiS (Northern Youth in Service) is a program that supports youth who want to start a project in their home community. It is a great way to turn any ideas into a program! Previous project ideas have included sewing groups, hunting programs, events, art projects, youth groups … if you have an idea (big or small!) or an interest area, you should apply.
When is the deadline?
We are no longer accepting applications at this time.
Why join NYiS?
Through NYiS, you’ll get to:
- Explore and build skills in an area that you like!
- Work with other youth from the north,
- Receive funding and resources for your idea,
- Have a supportive network who can help you every step of the way.
What do Participants do?
If selected, Participants volunteer their time to come up with a project idea, budget, and timeline. They then get to work alone or with others (your choice!) to make the project happen in your community. We will teach Participants what they need to do and how to do it, but they should expect to commit a few hours a week of volunteer time.
What is a community-based project?
It can be any type of idea that you could do in your community! It can include starting a program, building something, starting a group. Any idea that helps your community and develops your skills and leadership.
Do I have to know what I want to do for a project?
No, you do not have to know exactly what you want to do, but you should have a focus area that you find interesting. If you do have a specific idea for a project you can let us know.
What will happen if I am selected?
You will receive some getting started assignments, and we will book your travel to Ottawa for around Feb 14-21st, depending on travel schedules.
How will NYA support my project?
Each project can get $500 in funding. You will also get support through mentorship, training, and we can help you apply for more funding through other organizations in the future.
What are the benefits for participants?
- Practical job skills
- Skills in goal setting,
- Program management skills and capacity,
- Confidence and independence,
- An opportunity to meet other youth and make friends.
Past Projects
So far Participants have created a whole range of different projects; sewing groups, hunting programs, events, art projects, youth groups and more. Some have worked on their own, and others as teams. Some activities were short term, and others are still going. Learn more and get some inspiration by clicking here.
