Our Youth Program

Spend a week with Encounters with Canada - Canada's largest youth forum!  Every week of the school year, 120 to148 teens from across Canada (ages 14-17) come to Ottawa, where they discover their country through each other, learn about Canadian institutions, meet famous and accomplished Canadians, explore exciting career options, develop their civic leadership skills and live an extraordinary bilingual experience. Over 84,000 youth have lived the EWC experience, so far! 

Read our FAQs, choose from our exciting theme weeks, and register TODAY!


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Politics in Canada

Politics come alive in the nation’s capital. Participants may visit the Supreme Court of Canada, enjoy an extended visit of Parliament, the Senate and even attend Question Period. They will also have the unique opportunity to listen to diplomats and professionals discuss their experiences and roles, and speak with these representatives to find out their opinions on today’s key issues. Many notable guest speakers have participated in the past, such as The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and The Honourable Shelly Glover. Last year, a simulated election campaign was held, where participants formed political parties and vied for the votes of the remaining EWC participants.

This week on FYICanada: Mock election party commercials and special interest group commercials - including: The Unity Party and Votes for Youth!

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