BGC Canada announces 2026 Youth of the Year recipients
National initiative recognizes youth from across Canada for their leadership, service and commitment to creating positive change
TORONTO, Oct. 14, 2026 /CNW/ - BGC Canada (Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada) is proud to announce five 2026 Youth of the Year recipients: Ayesha of BGC East Scarborough (ON), Danica of BGC Yorkton (SK), Mohammed of BGC Ottawa (ON), Ruqaiyah of BGC Eastview (ON), and Zinat of BGC Bigs Edmonton & Area (AB).
Youth of the Year is BGC Canada's national initiative recognizing exceptional young people who are using their voices, talents and experiences to lead positive change in their Clubs and communities. The 2026 recipients bring distinct perspectives and ambitions to the program, united by a commitment to helping other young people feel supported, included and empowered.
Over the coming months, the five recipients will take part in leadership development, public speaking, media engagement and networking opportunities as official BGC youth ambassadors. One recipient will be named BGC Canada's 2026 National Youth of the Year at the national celebration on October 27 in Toronto.
Meet the 2026 Youth of the Year
Ayesha -- BGC East Scarborough (Toronto, Ontario)
Ayesha has been part of BGC East Scarborough for eight years as a Club member, volunteer and youth leader, now serving as Co-President of the Youth Council. She leads workshops, supports youth-led initiatives and helps create inclusive spaces where young people can build confidence and pursue their goals.
Danica -- BGC Yorkton (Saskatchewan)
Danica has strengthened her communication, leadership and public speaking skills through BGC Yorkton and was recognized with the 2025 Youth Civic Engagement Award. She has led school clubs, introduced younger Club members to robotics and is committed to creating opportunities where young people feel included and supported.
Mohammed -- BGC Ottawa (Ontario)
Mohammed has been involved with BGC Ottawa for more than 13 years as a Club member, volunteer and staff member, and is now an Intermediate Youth Worker and Civil Engineering student at Carleton University. He mentors younger members, creates welcoming spaces and shares his story through public speaking to show other youth what is possible with support and community.
Ruqaiyah -- BGC Eastview (Toronto, Ontario)
Ruqaiyah has been part of BGC Eastview since she was three years old and has grown into a thoughtful leader and facilitator through local and national youth leadership opportunities. Through photography, film and youth leadership, she works to amplify youth voices and help others feel seen and valued.
Zinat -- BGC Bigs Edmonton & Area (Alberta)
Zinat has developed her leadership, communication and advocacy skills through BGC Bigs Edmonton & Area and her role as President of her school's Interact Club. She has led fundraising projects and a community cleanup involving more than 100 volunteers, and is passionate about access to education, equity and youth-led change.
"These five remarkable young people reflect the leadership, compassion and determination we see in BGC Clubs across Canada every day," says Carrie Wagner, Interim President & CEO, BGC Canada. "Ayesha, Danica, Mohammed, Ruqaiyah and Zinat are already making a meaningful difference in their communities. We are proud to help amplify their voices and support them as they continue to lead, advocate and inspire."
Each Youth of the Year recipient is selected through an application process that includes written and video submissions. The program gives young people a national platform to share their perspectives, strengthen their leadership skills and represent the impact of BGC Clubs across the country.
Presented by Hyundai Canada, with support from Old Navy and Hershey Canada Inc, recipients will receive postsecondary scholarships, laptops, prize packs, and media and leadership training to support their development as BGC youth ambassadors. Their home Clubs will also receive grants to strengthen youth engagement and leadership initiatives.
The 2026 Youth of the Year recipients will champion the role young people play in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
About BGC Canada
For more than 125 years, BGC Canada has created opportunities for millions of children and teens across the country. As Canada's largest child and youth-serving charitable and community services organization, BGC Canada provides safe, supportive places where young people can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.
SOURCE BGC Canada
Media contact: Mary O'Connell, Director, BGC Canada, [email protected]
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