2025 ViaYOUTH Summit

What is the ViaYOUTH Summit?

Motivate Canada’s annual ViaYOUTH Summit is a dynamic gathering of young leaders, mentors, and change makers from across Canada. This event empowers youth to connect, learn, and grow through inspiring workshops, interactive sessions, and meaningful discussions. The summit provides a space for youth to share their stories, develop leadership skills, and foster connections with like-minded peers who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. It’s an unforgettable experience that celebrates youth voices and equips them with the tools they need to lead, inspire, and create positive change.

20

5

Youth Leaders

Youth Delegates

Event Highlights

Experience dynamic workshops, keynote speeches, sharing circles and engaging activities.

Local Elder Welcoming & Daily Smudge

Keynote Speaker - Tyler Symmonds

We’re honored to open the 2025 ViaYOUTH Summit with a ceremony led by a local Indigenous Elder, featuring a land acknowledgment and daily smudge. This meaningful tradition connects us with the land, respects its history, and brings our community together in reflection and gratitude. Join us as we honor the spirit of the land and start each day with intention and respect.

Networking Activity

Workshop #1: Youth Empowerment - Sharing Our Unique Stories

Workshop #2: One Voice, Many Stories: Creating Inclusive Communities

Ice Breaker Activities

Swag Bags

Sharing Circles

All photos shown above are from past ViaYOUTH Summits.

The ViaYOUTH Summit is packed with interactive icebreaker activities designed to spark connections and get everyone energized! These activities are crafted to help participants get to know each other, break down barriers, and build a sense of community from the start. From group challenges to creative introductions, each icebreaker encourages teamwork, laughter, and a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.

Sharing Circles are a core part of the ViaYOUTH Summit, offering a safe and supportive space for delegates, volunteers, and staff to come together and connect on a deeper level. These circles are designed to encourage open conversation, where participants can share their thoughts, stories, and emotions without judgment

Each delegate at the ViaYOUTH Summit will receive a specially curated swag bag, packed with exciting goodies designed to enhance your experience! Inside, you’ll find thoughtful items that reflect our commitment to empowerment, community, and sustainability. From practical tools to keep you organized during the summit to fun keepsakes that celebrate your journey, each swag bag is a token of our appreciation for your participation.

Join us for an exclusive networking session with local organizations and inspiring entrepreneurs. This is your chance to build connections, learn from industry leaders, and discover opportunities to make an impact in your community. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience to grow your network and your future

This workshop is focused on youth empowerment, building healthy environments, and sharing personal stories. This session is all about creating a supportive community where every voice is heard and meaningful relationships are formed. Dive in, be inspired, and discover the strength in connection!

What happens when we listen to and learn from each other’s unique stories? In this workshop, we’ll dive into the power of storytelling and how hearing different voices helps us grow and connect as a community. You’ll explore what it means to make space for everyone—no matter their background, identity, or experiences—and learn how to amplify voices that often go unheard. Together, we’ll brainstorm ways to create more inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.

In this powerful presentation, Hope Blooms Kolade Kolawole-Boboye and Makye Clayton take us on a journey of resilience, impact, and transformation. Through personal storytelling and real-life examples, he shares how Hope Blooms empowers youth to create change—turning adversity into opportunity and dreams into reality. From social enterprises like Hope Blooms Fresh Herb Dressing, Hot Cocoa Boys, and Possibili-Teas to mentorship and business programs, this movement has redefined what’s possible for marginalized youth. With a 100% high school graduation rate among participants and over $113,000 awarded in scholarships, Hope Blooms is changing lives and communities.

Tyler Simmonds is an award-winning filmmaker, Peer Support Specialist, Youth Advocate Worker, and researcher. He uses storytelling to promote mental wellness, mindfulness, resilience, and vulnerability.

Workshop #3: Achieving Your Possibility with Hope Blooms

Templeton Sawyer was an Employment Support Practitioner with Teamwork Cooperative and the host of the Tweet the Leader in You podcast. He is also a co-facilitator of the CEI and Teamwork’s Youth-Focused Community of Practice in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A passionate youth advocate, Templeton works to empower young people across Nova Scotia, Ontario, and the Bahamas through leadership and skill development programs.

Driven by a commitment to inclusion, Templeton co-authored a Youth-Focused Community of Practice to help service providers develop innovative strategies for supporting youth. Today Templeton serves as Leadership Programs Lead with Pride at Work Canada, He is also the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Alive House, a nonprofit he founded in 2023 to support vulnerable communities, including refugees, international students, single mothers, and youth, by providing education, employment support, and affordable housing solutions.

Summit Speakers & Guests

Templeton Sawyer - Workshop #2 Facilitator

Tyler Simmonds - Keynote Speaker

Tyler Simmonds is an award-winning filmmaker, Peer Support Specialist, Youth Advocate Worker, and researcher. He uses storytelling to promote mental wellness, mindfulness, resilience, and vulnerability. As a Keynote Speaker, Tyler helps others navigate mental health challenges and feel a sense of belonging. His powerful talks at places such as TED, WeDay, and other major organizations make him a sought-after speaker on resilience and leadership.

Since 2015, he has spoken to over 12,000 individuals, leaving a lasting impact through his work.

Kye Clayton is the Manager of Youth Power and Innovation and the creative force behind LDN. Known for his drive and strategic vision, Kye has performed at major events like Nova Scotia Music Week and shared the stage with artists such as Xzibit. He is a multi-award-winning artist, receiving the Lieutenant Governor Award and Portia White Youth Award in 2023. Kye is also dedicated to mentoring youth, focusing on personal development through music programs and business initiatives. Passionate about music, mentoring, and community, Kye uses his talents to empower youth and expand creative possibilities in his community.

Kye Clayton - Workshop #3 Facilitator - Hope Blooms

Kolade Kolawole-Boboye is the Director and Alumni at Hope Blooms, as well as the Co-founder of LDN Records INC. Recognized for his creativity and dedication, he is a recipient of the ANSMA Development Award for LDN, the Lieutenant Governor’s Architecture Award for Outstanding Design in Greenhouse, and has successfully pitched on CBC’s Dragons Den. A lifelong learner, Kolade is passionate about building relationships through creative entrepreneurial collaborations and expanding his experience through building organizations and business systems.

Kolade Kolawole-Boboye - Workshop #3 Facilitator - Hope Blooms

Maziah Clayton Hart is a skilled artist, entrepreneur, and community advocate known for her work with the Hope Blooms Music Program and as a co-founder of Hot Cocoa Boys and Fruit Burst Lemonade. With a passion for mentoring and inspiring youth, Maziah contributes her talents in music, business development, and creative projects to foster a positive and collaborative environment. She is graduating from high school this year, continuing to build her career and expand her entrepreneurial ventures.

Maziah Clayton Hart - Workshop #3 Facilitator - Hope Blooms

Tayemare Mintis is a dynamic youth leader, artist, and mentor, known for his contributions to the Hope Blooms Music Program and as a co-founder of Hot Cocoa Boys and Fruit Burst Lemonade. As a youth mentor with the Blooming Success program at Citadel, Tayemare is dedicated to empowering youth and helping them develop essential skills for success. Graduating from high school this year, he is set to make an even greater impact with his artistic, business, and leadership endeavors.

Tayemare Mintis- Workshop #3 Facilitator - Hope Blooms

ViaYOUTH Summit Sharing Circles

At the ViaYOUTH Summit, Sharing Circles are a special part of our experience, creating a safe and supportive space for delegates, volunteers, and staff to come together and connect on a deep level. In these circles, everyone is encouraged to share openly—whether it’s how they’re feeling, personal stories, or experiences they’ve had on their journey. Sharing Circles are often emotional and healing spaces, where people can be vulnerable, uplifted by a community full of love and support. These moments bring everyone closer, reminding us of the power of listening, empathy, and shared experiences.

Location:

Get ready to experience an unforgettable summit right by the beautiful Halifax waterfront. Join us in the heart of the Maritimes for workshops, networking, and inspiration with young leaders from across Canada. Don’t miss your chance to explore Halifax with likeminded youth leaders.

Event Venue:

Four Points Sheraton, Downtown Halifax

Are you ready to make an impact & share your story?

This is your chance to connect, learn, and lead alongside other passionate young changemakers. Dive into workshops, meet inspiring mentors, and gain the tools you need to create positive change your community. Don’t miss out—register now and take the next step in your leadership journey!

For just $350, your experience includes:

🏨 3 nights at a hotel (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday) 🍽️ Meals: Friday & Saturday - breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Sunday - breakfast and lunch
🎒 A Delegate Swag Bag packed with goodies
✨ Access to all summit activities, inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, and an exciting excursion.