Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program
Hours of operation:
Monday - Friday - 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Beginning July 1:
Monday - Sunday - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Our 2022 Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program has ended. Please check this page in May for updates and information about the 2023 season. Thank you for your interest in the Y4Y Innovation Program at the Ontario Science Centre!
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.
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.
