Our Story

It all begins with an idea.

YDC began as a handful of motivated young people who organized Canada’s delegations to the youth summits of the G7 and G20. Years later, our volunteer team has grown to nearly two dozen youth responsible for numerous observational and advocacy delegations to major institutions and alongside key meetings. A decade in, our efforts were officially recognized when YDC was accredited with consultative status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council in 2018.

Key Dates

  • Founded as “YouthCan for International Dialogue,” and sends its first delegation to the Y8 in Germany.

  • Founded by a group of young Canadians passionate about diplomacy and international relations.

  • Established its constitution and bylaws, including the creation of a Board of Directors.

  • Received its official non-profit status (Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act).

  • Recruited new board members to facilitate long term fundraising and growth objectives.

  • Hosted the Y7 Summit in Charlevoix and obtained the NGOs consultative status with the ECOSOC at the United Nations.

  • First all Indigenous youth delegation participated in the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII).

  • First-year sponsorship contribution from Air Canada allowing YDC to cover all or part of some delegates' travel expenses.