“You don’t need grey hair and letters behind your name to bring about change — just enthusiasm for making a positive difference for others,” said panel member Zaheed Damani, 21, from Calgary. “Being on the panel is a great opportunity to meet peers from all over Alberta; discuss issues like homelessness, mentoring and violence; and advise the government about what can be done to help.”

Created in 2000, the panel has contributed input to a number of government initiatives, programs and public awareness campaigns, including the Alberta Mentoring Partnership and Alberta’s Gang Crime Suppression Initiative. 

The panel meets four times per year and is the only youth panel that reports to and is chaired by a member of the Legislative Assembly — Kyle Fawcett, MLA, Calgary-North Hill. As chair, Fawcett informs the Minister of Children and Youth Services, Janis Tarchuk, on the progress and outcomes of the panel's work.

“Youth are the future leaders of this province and our panel members have the opportunity to use their leadership, talent and creativity to make a positive difference here and now,” said Fawcett. “We’re looking for some enthusiastic new members to join the team, so I encourage interested youth to fill out an application form today.”

Deadline for applications is August 31. To find out more and to apply, call 780-415-0085 (toll-free by first dialing 310-0000) or visit www.yap.gov.ab.ca