A high school student from Moose Jaw is one of 12 youths who has been named to this year’s provincial youth council.
This dynamic group of leaders was chosen to represent the voices of Saskatchewan’s youths and play an important role in helping to shape the province’s education system.
This year’s youth council consists of 12 exceptional students from grades 10 to 12 who will advise the Ministry of Education on various education-related priorities.
The 2024-25 provincial youth council members are:
- Ben Ansell, Prairie Â鶹´«Ã½AV School Division
- Brooklynn Gardiner, Ile-a-la Crosse School Division
- De Wet Luus, Horizon School Division
- Demi Ogundele, Independent School
- Elissa Holinaty, North East School Division
- Grace Bosch, Chinook School Division
- Jade Ezumah, Lloydminster Catholic School Division
- Kale Roberts, Prairie Spirit School Division
- Micaiah (Mia) Hack, Sask DLC
- Rylan Iron, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
- Tari Wenzel, Sun West School Division
- Theron Roberts, Northern Lights School Division
Ansell is in Grade 12 at Central Collegiate. He is a French Immersion student and an avid student-athlete, competing on Central’s football and senior basketball teams.
His passion for sports extends beyond school, as he actively participates in club basketball as a player and a coach. Besides his athletic endeavours, Ansell volunteers at the hospital, where he builds relationships with patients and staff while gaining valuable insights into the hospital’s operations.
Eager to contribute to the youth council, Ansell looks forward to collaborating with others to enhance school experiences and be a voice for students across the province.
“The insights provided by our youth are essential for guiding and shaping policies that directly impact their education and future,” Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “I am confident that this year’s council will bring fresh perspectives that will help us continue to improve and adapt our education system.”
The youth council members recently gathered in Saskatoon for an orientation. During the session, they learned about their roles and responsibilities and participated in a discussion on the Provincial Education Plan.
The youth council will have the opportunity to participate in several important engagements throughout the year. These sessions will provide opportunities for the council members to collaborate and share their insights with the ministry, ensuring that student voices continue to shape the education landscape in Saskatchewan.
“Being part of the youth council will give me a platform to voice ideas and contribute to real change in our education system,” said Tari Wenzel. “It is empowering to know that our perspectives will not only be heard but are valued by the Ministry of Education.”
Established in 2019, the youth council provides a platform for student leaders aged 16 and older in grades 10 to 12 to share their perspectives and experiences within the education system.
This year, the nomination process invited each school division to submit up to two nominations. Qualified independent schools, historical high schools and the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC) were invited to submit one nomination.
