NWT Climate Change Youth Council
Join the NWT Climate Change Youth Council
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the NWT Climate Change Council are looking for new members for the NWT Climate Change Youth Council (CCYC). If you are between 18 and 35 years old and live in the Northwest Territories (NWT), you can apply! This is an opportunity to represent your generation, community and region, while helping advance climate action in the NWT.
Overview
The NWT Climate Change Youth Council (CCYC) was established as a panel of the NWT Climate Change Council in March 2023. The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) provides funding and secretariat support to the council.
Purpose
Climate change is the defining issue of our time. The NWT Climate Change Council and the GNWT recognize the vital role youth play in addressing this challenge. The CCYC brings together young people from across the NWT. Their chosen objectives are to:
- Engage communities and residents in discussions about climate change.
- Understand key climate issues and youth perspectives about them.
- Amplify youth voices to influence climate policy and action.
- Empower members to mobilize youth for climate.
- Build the capacity and networks of future climate leaders.
The CCYC provides input and advice to the NWT Climate Change Council and the GNWT on climate matters. Members contribute for the benefit of the council and do not represent any regional or political group.
Composition
The CCYC consists of 12 members aged 18 to 35 from different regions of the NWT:
- South Slave (2 members)
- Dehcho (2 members)
- Sahtú (2 members)
- Beaufort Delta (2 members)
- North Slave, not including Yellowknife (2 members)
- City of Yellowknife (2 members)
A Chair and Co-Chair are chosen from the members.
Why Join?
As a member, you will:
- Amplify your voice on climate action in the NWT
- Learn more about climate policy making and climate initiatives
- Receive an honorarium for meetings attended:
- Chair: $300 per day
- Member: $250 per day
- Half-day: 50% of the daily rate
- Enhance your resume
- Connect with other youth who are passionate about climate action across the NWT
Eligibility
To apply, you must:
- Be 18 to 35 years old
- Live in the NWT and have lived in the region you want to represent
- Have experience, skills, or knowledge about climate change
- Be interested in climate change solutions
- Demonstrate leadership and interpersonal skills to engage with others
- Be willing to discuss and make recommendations on climate issues
- Work respectfully and productively with other members
No formal education is required. It is beneficial if you have:
- Knowledge of climate change and northern impacts, including Indigenous and local knowledge
- Experience with environmental issues
Term
Members serve for two (2) years. A Chair and Co-Chair are selected each year to serve a one (1) year term.
Requirements
Members must:
- Attend three (3) online meetings a year, including one in-person meeting
- Engage with youth and community members in your region
- Read and be ready to discuss meeting materials
- Collaborate with other members online
Selection Process
The NWT Climate Change Council selects members based on their knowledge, experience, skills, community involvement, and other life experiences. The CCYC encourages and supports youth with disabilities, visible minorities, and the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.
How to Apply
Interested youth can apply through the GNWT Expression of Interest process. Download the application form and send it to CCYC@gov.nt.ca. We encourage applicants to submit a character reference letter with their completed application.
Deadline
Deadline to apply for the 2025-2027 cohort is May 28, 2025. Applications submitted after this date may still be considered if there are vacancies.