Last spring, Tyee Builders raised over $27,000 to fund a new series exploring what British Columbia’s youth are thinking about issues important to them and the future of this province.
Who are “youth?” We were thinking loosely about those between 12 and 24, but with plenty of leeway for the fact the youth stretches well into young adulthood—much later than in previous generations.
Many of these young British Columbians can’t or won’t vote next spring. But that doesn’t mean they don’t care—or that their opinions don’t count. No one’s stake in that future is bigger than theirs.
Tyee youth reporter Katie Hyslop hit the reporting trail this summer, and will continue through fall, asking young people what they hope for and worry about on subjects like how the economy trades off against securing a healthy environment; jobs; the availability of youth mental health services; growing up LGBTQ2S+; and other issues on their minds.
Her reports will be collected here.
In This Series
In BC’s North, Creating a Safe Place for Youth to Connect with Their Land
In conversation with ‘Youth On Water’ coordinator Anissa Watson. Part of a reader-funded series.
Youth in BC’s Northwest Interior Wrestle With Mega-Project Future
Jobs are badly needed, but is industry-as-usual the way? Many aren’t sold. First in a reader-funded series.
Bringing a Love of Movement to Northwest BC’s Wilderness
In conversation with Forest Parkour BC founder Wyatt Chandler. Part of a reader-funded series.
In Prince Rupert, Making Sure Salmon Stay in (Elementary) School
In conversation with French immersion teacher and confessed ‘salmon guy,’ Mike McDowall. Part of a reader-funded series.
In Prince Rupert, Good Times Gaming for Young and Old
In conversation with Rob Gruber, (dungeon) master of games for the six-to-76 set. Part of a reader-funded series.
‘If They Do It Properly,’ Coastal Youth Could Support Megaprojects
In Prince Rupert and area, some ‘yay’ to LNG, but not for oil pipelines to the northwest coast. Part of a reader-funded series.
How Vancouver Youth Feel about Life in ‘World’s Most Livable City’
A roundtable discussion with the next generation. Part of a reader-funded series.
Young, Homeless, and at Risk in BC’s Interior
In Kamloops, a window on ‘hidden’ struggles of youths who have no place to call home. Part of a reader-funded series.
Kamloops ‘Wrap Force’ Fights Youth Homelessness
Once homeless herself, Katherine McParland now campaigns to shelter the most vulnerable. Part of a reader-funded series.
At Kamloops School for Indigenous Youth, a ‘Focus on the Successes’
Strong bonds between students and adults make the difference, says teacher Jordan Smith. Part of a series.
For Some Kamloops Youth, It’s Easier to Get High than to Get Help
Shortage of detox beds, doctors makes getting well tough. Part of a reader-funded series.