Sep 8th, 2026

Lowertown youth lead the conversation with OCH CEO Stéphane Giguère 

Youth Connect, a Lowertown group that shares ideas about their community through the Friel Youth Centre, is using its podcast to explore issues that matter to young people in their community. 

As part of their Et Si On Jasait podcast, Youth Connect hosts planned, produced and led a conversation with Ottawa Community Housing President and CEO Stéphane Giguère. They chose the topics they wanted to explore and asked Stéphane about leadership, community safety, social housing, and his career journey. 

Their questions led to a conversation about topics that matter to them — and gave Stephane an opportunity to share his thoughts. Stéphane shared his own career journey and what led him to OCH. He also spoke about the responsibility of leading an organization that provides social and affordable housing to thousands of people. 

When the conversation turned to careers and the future, Stéphane encouraged youth to find work that is meaningful to them. 

He encouraged youth to look for work they enjoy and that allows them to help others, and to find work that has meaning for them. The youth also raised important questions about their community, including homelessness and community safety. Stéphane spoke about the importance of supporting tenants while working to keep OCH communities safe. 

By choosing the topics, asking the questions and producing the podcast, Youth Connect are creating their own space to explore the issues that affect their community and connect with people who can help shape its future. 

Youth voice isn’t just part of the conversation — they’re driving it. 

Watch the Et Si On Jasait episode to hear Youth Connect’s conversation with Stéphane Giguère.