future leaders youth council

We are a growing group of youth based in the Bow Valley of southern Alberta in Treaty 7 territory.

Together, our mission is to empower youth action on environmental topics.

turn your concern into impact!

Video: The 2023-24 Future Leaders Youth Council took a moment to reflect on their projects from the previous year and how they can apply the lessons into the future! Production and editing by Sunshine Creative.

What exactly do we do?

  • Monthly meetings: We meet 1-2 times per month in the evenings. Currently, these meetings take place in Canmore at the Biosphere Institute office but we are keen to expand meetings and membership to Banff and beyond! We often use this meeting time to tour local facilities (think: waste transfer stations or sustainable energy facilities) or visit organizations engaged in environmental work (think: Food Rescue Barn or Community Cruisers). We use this meeting time to connect with one another, exchange ideas and learn about environmental topics (this year, the focus is on sustainable lifestyle habits).

  • Networking opportunities: Do you want to meet like-minded youth? We are happy to connect you with other youth from across southern Alberta who are concerned about the environment - and doing something about it! Youth Council members are encouraged to attend Canadian Rockies Youth Network events, summits, workshops and their planning committee.

  • Career exploration: We network with numerous community organizations and expose youth council members to post-secondary options and career exploration opportunities.

  • Action projects: Most importantly - we take action! For 2024, our focus is on educating the Bow Valley on sustainable lifestyle tips. We will be creating a series of educational tips that give folks hands-on, tangible steps to improve their quality of life and the wellbeing of the planet. Follow @future.leaders.biosphere on Instagram!

Is there a cost?

  • The Youth Council is free to join! We complement our meetings with tasty snacks, too :)

action project gallery

‘Not the End of the World’ - Youth-led event to learn, connect and celebrate Earth

In a time of negative headlines and persistent 'doom and gloom’ narrative, the Future Leaders Youth Council is here to tell you - you’re not alone and there are solutions!

On April 20th, 2024, over 25 youth from Banff, Canmore and Mînî Thnî gathered in at the Banff YWCA for an afternoon of workshops, dinner, open mic and dance. Topics ranged from wildlife conservation and Indigenous experiences to planet-based eating, sustainable fashion, poetry and how to have brave conversations. Huge thanks to Calgary Foundation and Banff YWCA for the support.

Roam Transit - “Teens on Transit” Promotional Video

Transportation is among the top 3 contributors to carbon emissions in the Bow Valley (alongside buildings heating/cooling and food-related emissions). This 'Teens on Transit' promotional video was created with the support of Roam Transit. We hope to inspire others to take transit and live a more sustainable lifestyle in the Bow Valley! Bring a friend - all are welcome!

Trash Talks - Education Radio Series (2023)

Support for this program is provided by