On January 22, 2014, a night of celebration took place at the Great Hall in recognition for Toronto’s win as Youthful City of the Year 2014. After conducting several surveys and analyzing from a youths’ perspective in twenty-five top cities, Youthful Cities index concluded that Toronto scored the highest in sixteen criteria including nightlife, culture, employment, art, diversity, music and film. This big win puts Toronto on the radar as one of the best places for young people to live in, which may very well attract more youths from different parts of the world to consider living here.
The evening started with inspiring speakers including Toronto Youth Organizations and Initiatives such as For Youth Initiative, Success Beyond Limits, 1 LOVE T.O., and Manifesto. These young ambassadors were put on the forefront to not only represent Toronto, but also to share the success stories from their communities. The youth organizations in Toronto are an excellent example of the growing entrepreneurs in the millennium generation. Everyday more and more youths are inspired to start their own business ventures, enterprises or youth-led initiatives.
“Entrepreneurship is something that the young generations have, to go out and start something new, to take a risk, to blaze a new trail, and to set their own way.”
As a youth living in Toronto, I personally witness a lot of investment that goes into our generation. There are a number of opportunities and resources available, especially for youths living in marginalized communities. For example, there are many arts organizations and enterprises that serve youths from ages 15-29 in different communities around Toronto, providing them with mentorship, employment opportunities, skills training, networking opportunities, high-profile connections and resources(working space, equipment).
Time and time again, as the City of Toronto continues to take care of it’s youths, it will in turn create new entrepreneurs, innovators, creative thinkers and problems solvers who care enough to contribute to society and create positive changes within their communities. Shaping an even better future for our generations that follow!
If you would like to tell us why you think Toronto is the Youthful City of the Year 2014, please share your thoughts by commenting below or tweeting @FreshPrintMag!
