Part of the role of the NCC is to make sure that our nation’s capital reflects Canadians in all aspects of the work that it does: long-term plans, green spaces, buildings and properties, programs and activities. This also means ensuring that the Capital is relevant to Canadians, and responds to the diversity of the population. For this reason, the NCC offers several engagement initiatives to involve young people in concrete actions to create positive change, as well as to experience and help define the Capital.

Student Job Opportunities

The NCC creates meaningful employment opportunities for youth who want to take an active role in building the National Capital Region. Throughout the year, the NCC hires more than 100 students to meet specific operational needs:

Want to get involved? See our careers page for student job opportunities.

Youth Scientists

Are you a biology major? You can gain valuable fieldwork experience and have an opportunity to apply your knowledge in the Greenbelt or Gatineau Park as a student biologist at the NCC. Projects such as monitoring for species at risk, assisting in scientific research and conducting road mortality surveys are offered. Find out first-hand about life as an NCC student biologist. Want to get involved? See our careers page for student job opportunities.

Also, youth partnership initiatives at the NCC include field camps within the Greenbelt, academic research and lectures. Recently, the NCC has collaborated with

  • universities (Trent, Guelph, McGill, Université du Québec, Carleton)
  • colleges (Cité collégiale and Algonquin College)
  • the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA)
  • Ecology Ottawa
  • the Nature Conservancy of Canada
  • recreational youth associations

Young Entrepreneurs Program

Got a great business idea? Or, want to hone your business savvy? Since 2017, the NCC has offered the Young Entrepreneurs Program. This program gives children and youth between the ages of 5 and 17 an opportunity to gain business experience by operating a kiosk on NCC parkways during the popular NCC Weekend Bikedays. Participants first take part in a fun training workshop by JA Ottawa, and then receive a free permit to run a kiosk, selling refreshments or treats, for example, at key areas along the parkways. Participants also donate a portion of their proceeds to local charities like the Ottawa Humane Society and CHEO.

Want to get involved? See our Young Entrepreneurs Program.

Other Examples of NCC Youth Engagement Initiatives

The NCC’s youth engagement initiatives recognize young people’s right to participate in decisions that impact them, and acknowledge the important skills and strengths they bring to the table. It brings young people in as valued stakeholders in creating effective and inclusive plans, programs and environments in the National Capital Region.

  • The Urbanism Lab
  • Archaeology Month (August)
  • Gatineau Park Outdoor Experiences and Youth Education Programs
  • Become a volunteer with the National Capital Commission
  • Event Partnerships That Support Youth
    • The NCC issues approximately 300 event permits a year. These range from large festivals to smaller-scale events. Large festivals and events: the Ottawa Children’s Festival, Ottawa International Jazz Festival, RBC Ottawa Bluesfest, Festival franco-ontarien, Ottawa Race Weekend, Canada Army Run and the Summer Solstice Aboriginal Festival. On a smaller scale, the NCC issues permits for events that support many youth groups and charities: The Walk So Kids Can Talk event in support of the Kids Help Phone, and the Motomax Outaouais event in support of the Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada.
  • Recreational Leases and Agreements That Support Youth
    • The NCC has over 1,600 properties. Through our recreational agreements, these properties represent exceptional opportunities for youth throughout the Capital Region. We partner with local municipalities, educational institutions, NGOs, and not-for-profit and sporting associations to provide a healthy and active lifestyle for visitors and residents in the National Capital Region.