Aug 27th, 2026

Youth Futures: Gaining Skills, Building Connections

“Remember, just be yourself. Don’t be shy. Ask questions, make connections, and make memories. Don’t worry too much about the future. Enjoy the present.” 

That was advice from a Youth Futures graduate to the next group of students. 

Youth Futures is a 6-month bilingual program that includes:  

• Leadership & Employment Training → Practical sessions that prepare youth for college & university. 

• Post-Secondary Orientation → Get a head start on college or university with guided tours and insider tips. 

• Summer Jobs → Hands-on experience through paid summer employment opportunities. Possibility of obtaining up to two high school COOP credits through the summer placement.  

• Peer Support & Networking → A strong community of peers and mentors to grow, connect and succeed. 

The 2026 Youth Futures class graduated on Aug. 20. Over six months, they learned job skills, met mentors, and made friends. 

Now, they can take those skills with them as they continue their education. 

Youth Futures started in 2014. The program is offered by the City of Ottawa with support from the OCH Foundation. More than 1,400 young people have taken part. 

For many young people, Youth Futures is a first step toward their future. Some are the first in their family to go to college or university. The program helps them build confidence, get work experience, and explore careers. 

But Youth Futures is more than six months of training. 

Participants build friendships and connections that can last for years. 

Each year, 150 young people from low-income communities, including many OCH tenants, have the chance to complete the program. Many come back to mentors after they participate. 

 Are you an OCH tenant looking for new opportunities for a young person in your family? Youth Futures can help young people take their next step toward their goals. More information: youth-futures.com/