The future of our community depends on the leaders we invest in today. The UCC Youth Ambassador Program is a national initiative designed to equip young Ukrainian Canadians with the skills, networks, and experience needed to lead with purpose and impact. 

Now in its second year, the program brings together youth aged 18–30 from across Canada, including many newcomers, and supports them through targeted training in advocacy, public policy, project management, and communications. A core component of the program is action: each participant develops and implements a community impact project that responds to real needs. 

These projects are already delivering tangible results. Current initiatives include the UCC Nova Scotia Healthcare Navigation Hub, the U4C Immigration Advocacy Survey, and the By Choice Collective storytelling platform — all addressing critical gaps in information, representation, and community engagement. Projects from our inaugural cohort can be viewed on our website.  

As the cohort prepares for Advocacy Day in May, Youth Ambassadors will bring forward informed perspectives and lived experiences to help shape conversations at the national level. 

Programs like this are made possible through the support of our community. By investing in youth leadership, we are strengthening the long-term capacity, resilience, and voice of Ukrainian Canadians across the country. 

Applications for the 2026 Youth Ambassador Program are now open until April 15. We encourage young leaders, and those who support them, to get involved. 

—
Taisa Mysakowec
Program Manager, UCC Youth Ambassador Program