RYP YOUTH LEADERSHIP PATHWAY

RYP's Youth Leadership Pathway gives young people opportunities to grow from program participants into mentors and leaders. Through mentorship, training, hands-on experience and increasing responsibility, youth build confidence, practical skills and leadership experience as they progress through RYP.

THE RYP YOUTH LEADERSHIP PATHWAY

How the Pathway Works
Youth can progress through RYP’s leadership pathway as they build skills, demonstrate readiness, take on greater responsibility and complete required training. Progression is based on readiness, participation, demonstrated responsibility and available leadership opportunities.

Dreamer → Senior Dreamer → Junior Ambassador → Ambassador →
Lead Ambassador → Strategic Leadership Team / Alumni

  • RYP Dreamer (Ages 7–15): Builds confidence, relationships and foundational life, learning and leadership skills.
  • Senior Dreamer: Takes on greater responsibility, strengthens practical skills and prepares for youth leadership.
  • Junior Ambassador: Begins supervised leadership training and supports younger participants and program activities.
  • Ambassador: Facilitates programs, mentors younger participants and practises leadership through approved roles.
  • Lead Ambassador: Takes on increased leadership responsibility, supports other youth leaders and helps strengthen program delivery.
  • Strategic Leadership Team / Alumni: Experienced youth leaders and former participants contribute through approved leadership, mentorship and organizational opportunities.

Your Role as an RYP Ambassador

As an RYP Ambassador, you may have opportunities to:

  1. Mentor Younger Participants: Support Dreamers and Senior Dreamers as they build confidence, skills and independence.
  2. Support and Facilitate Programs: Help deliver NewLife© programs, RYP Days, events and other approved activities.
  3. Develop as a Youth Leader: Build practical experience in communication, teamwork, facilitation, problem-solving and leadership.
  4. Take on Increasing Responsibility: Based on demonstrated readiness, experience and organizational needs, Ambassadors may take on additional responsibilities and be considered for Lead Ambassador and other approved leadership opportunities
  5. Build Meaningful Connections: Connect with peers, mentors, professionals and community leaders while developing academic, career and community networks.

Why Become an RYP Ambassador?

Being an RYP Ambassador is an opportunity to grow as a leader while making a meaningful contribution to younger youth and the community.

  • Make a Meaningful Impact: Mentor and encourage younger participants as they build confidence, skills and independence
  • Build Leadership Experience: Gain practical experience in facilitation, communication, teamwork, problem-solving and mentoring
  • Grow Your Network: Build relationships with peers, mentors, professionals and community leaders.
  • Develop Personally and Professionally: Strengthen skills that support your education, career, leadership and community involvement.
  • Access Opportunities: Ambassadors may be considered for scholarships, bursaries, training, special projects and other opportunities available through RYP.
  • Continue Your Leadership Journey: As you demonstrate readiness and take on greater responsibility, you may be considered for additional leadership opportunities within RYP.

    How to Apply

    Interested in joining RYP as a youth leader?

    RYP welcomes applications from university and post-secondary students who are interested in mentoring, leadership, community engagement and supporting younger youth.

    New applicants do not need to have previously participated in RYP. Successful applicants are placed within RYP’s Youth Leadership Pathway based on their experience, demonstrated readiness, interests and RYP’s current program needs.

    The application and onboarding process may include:

    • Complete an application form
    • Submit a résumé
    • Participate in an interview
    • Provide references, where required
    • Complete required orientation, training and screening before beginning their role

    Successful applicants are placed at the appropriate level within RYP’s Youth Leadership Pathway based on demonstrated readiness, experience, interests and current program needs.

    Ambassadors

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      START YOUR RYP LEADERSHIP JOURNEY

      RYP provides young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills, mentor younger participants and contribute to their community. Whether you have grown through RYP or are joining us as a university or post-secondary student, your leadership journey can begin here.

      New applicants are welcomed into RYP’s Youth Leadership Pathway based on their experience, demonstrated readiness, interests and current program opportunities.

      Ready to take the next step?

      Apply to Join RYP