Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program
About the Program
Are you interested in STEM, problem-solving and collaborative projects? Check out the Ontario Science Centre’s Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program, running each summer for grade 7 and 8 students from the Flemingdon and Thorncliffe communities.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Science Centre as you learn about the many professionals and apprentices who keep the Science Centre running, including individuals with expertise in science, technology, engineering, math and skilled trades. Meet and engage with scientists, exhibit fabrication staff (i.e., carpenters, machinists, electricians), audio visual technicians, 2D and 3D designers, motion graphics animators, animal care experts, program developers and more.
Together, participants develop solution-based design projects with support from their youth mentors and Science Centre staff, and then present their solutions to a panel of peers, Science Centre staff and program partners.
This program is generously sponsored by Scotiabank. There is no cost for participants, and Presto cards are provided to students relying on transit to attend. Upon completing the program, all participants receive a $25/day stipend.
There are three Y4Y sessions taking place in 2023:
- Session 1: Monday, July 17 – Thursday, July 27
- Session 2: Monday, July 31 – Friday, August 11*
- Session 3: Tuesday, August 15 – Friday, August 25
*No session on Monday August 7 due to Civic Holiday.
Program criteria
- Live in an area with a M3C or M4H postal code
- Have completed grade 7 or 8 in June 2023
- Be available to attend the program in person at 770 Don Mills Road from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on all days of the selected session
- Complete all parts of the application and submit it before Wednesday June 21 at 4 p.m.
Applications are now closed.
A selection committee will review all applications submitted by the deadline. All applications that meet the criteria will be placed into a pool for a random selection. Once participants have been randomly selected, they and their parents/caregivers will receive a registration form via email. This form must be completed and returned by the specified due date to secure the participant’s place in the program.
Questions about this program?
2022 Highlights
On September 2, we held a Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program showcase at the Ontario Science Centre. Y4Y participants presented their plans to improve public spaces, combat pollution and fight gender inequality and more to their families, peers, program partners, and Science Centre staff. From powerful videos to compelling posters and dynamic art projects, the Y4Y students learned how STEM and design play an important role in addressing some of the biggest challenges faced by not only their local community—but by communities around the globe.
