YWCA 150: Look Back, Push Forward is a civic engagement and leadership program for youth across the country. It provides young people with opportunities to enhance their leadership skills, build community, and become agents of change while improving their connection to their community and Canada. Funded by the Government of Canada, the program is a great way for young women to celebrate historic milestones achieved by Canadian women through coordinated events and activities. YWCAs serving 10 communities across the country have established youth councils giving them space to engage in their community and develop a strong public voice.

YWCA’s celebrations will reflect a full picture of Canadian history, giving young women tools and experiences that inform their ability to lead and think critically as they plan celebrations that honour women who were community leaders, trailblazers, door openers, artists, and activists.

Through this project, youth will explore the arts, culture, history, and heritage that is alive in their communities. They will be guided in their exploration of the history of the Canadian feminist movement and its legacy through excursions to local arts, culture, history and heritage sites, and organizations. Key experts, historians, arts educators, artists, activists, and concerned community stakeholders will share their knowledge and experience through the delivery of workshops, information sessions, and more.