MFRC is excited to have launched the second cohort of the Malvern Youth Advocacy and Action Program (MYAAP) on January 8, 2025, building on the success of the inaugural 2024 cohort. This year, the program features an updated curriculum designed to address the evolving needs of participants and the political landscape.
Applications Process
Inspired by the achievements of the 2024 cohort, this year’s program attracted over fifty high-quality competitive applications. After a thorough selection process, guided by a panel that included a 2024 MYAAP alumnus, nine exceptional participants and the program’s first-ever intern are onboarded. The cohort represents a diverse and passionate group ready to tackle significant policy challenges.
New Focus Areas for 2025
The 2025 cohort’s journey began with an orientation on January 8th, where participants were introduced to this year’s areas of focus: Housing and Poverty Reduction. These timely topics reflect the pressing challenges in Canada’s current political landscape. As the country enters the election year, MYAAP participants will also design and implement an advocacy campaign aimed at increasing youth voter turnout, amplifying the voices of young Canadians.
2024 Cohort Achievements
The inaugural cohort in 2024 laid a strong foundation for the program, producing nine impactful policy briefs on housing and education. Key highlights include:
- Breshna Hellali’s first published op-ed, a milestone in her advocacy journey. (Link)
- Shathvahi Ramesh’s leadership on The M-Project, addressing food insecurity in Malvern. (Link)
What is MYAAP?
The Malvern Youth Advocacy and Action Program (MYAAP) empowers youth in Scarborough with leadership and advocacy skills. Supported by Maytree, it focuses on tackling systemic issues through policy engagement and advocacy creation.
We’re incredibly proud of last year’s cohort and look forward to sharing the journey, progress, and achievements of this year’s talented participants in the weeks to come!
Blog By:
Lauren Gallacher
Public Policy and Advocacy Coordinator, Malvern Family Resource Centre
