I could say I'm just another YAA contributor, but you don't want to underestimate the leadership power of all my fellow youth. From blogging, I've learned that writing is great, but it's versatility can only come when it provokes discussion and inquiry, and that's what we can collectively do best. I want to rather get to know your insights, so always feel free to shoot me comments here and there.

Youth of YYC: Lindsay, 16

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“I’ve volunteered halfway across the world and in my community with multiple organizations. I’ve worked with people aged 3-90, from the handicapped to the homeless. But despite all the differences, volunteering is always the same: the coming together of individuals from all walks of life to improve the world around them.” Lindsay, 16

Youth of YYC: Alyssa, 16

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“One time I was volunteering as a host for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing dinner and I was learning a few basic handshapes from the coordinator. At one point I didn’t do one of the shapes properly and so instead of welcoming my family I technically told them I was pregnant.” Alyssa, 16

Youth of YYC: Chantelle, 14

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“Fitness, in my eyes, is a way of release; an outlet. There’s no better feeling than the sense of accomplishment after finishing up a workout routine. That moment when you’re catching your breath and you can feel your heart pounding inside of your chest, along with the fresh ache in your bones. It’s the sort…

Youth of YYC: Dennis, 17

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“Well, I started playing music not knowing where it’d take me. Now, I’ve been accepted at McGill and Humber for their jazz studies programs! Jazz connects all of me with everyone else on the bandstand as well as everyone in the audience. It’s an art form that really encourages individual expression while saluting the roots…

Youth of YYC: Emily, 17

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“The mind is so delicate, and has so much potential. In high school I find we’re bombarded by so much extraneous information that it can often blind the young mind and lead us to interpret our lives less intricately than it should be interpreted. It’s sad to see so many young people get so caught…

Youth of YYC: Anonymous, 17

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

”I just want everyone to have hope. It might not be the same as The Shawshank Redemption, but I’ve escaped death so many times. Thoughts of suicide is a serious thing and shouldn’t be ignored. You deserve to live and make memories until you’re satisfied. Have confidence in yourself. It’s easier said than done, but…

Youth of YYC: Tatiana, 17

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“I wish people were more open minded and didn’t judge others just because of what they like to do or their views in life. We’re all different, and although there’s no need to agree with everything other people say, it’s good to at least try to understand them. I believe that people should be able…

Youth of YYC: Anjali, 18

Awesome Youth, Youth of YYC

“My biggest passion is helping people. When I was little, I went to India and saw a bunch of the poverty and hurt there. There were people living inside sewers who relied on selling the metal they found for their next meal. Living here, we are so privileged and we don’t see what’s right outside…