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About the Conference

This conference is a chance to share, connect and activate yourselves! Hosted by the Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability (ALA), the aim is to develop a network of leaders and advocates in communities across the country. This conference is open to Canadians who self-identify as having a disability and are between the ages of 19 and 24. The conference will be held in Perth, Ontario (about 45 minutes outside of Ottawa).

Why do we call it a "NOT REALLY A CONFERENCE" Conference? If you have attended conferences before, you may be thinking "Hmmm…same old, same old" right? Wrong! This gathering has no agenda, no so-called experts telling you things you already know. It's all about YOU. WE MEAN IT!!! We promise! Non-conference goers will:

•   Set their own agenda;
•   participate in discussions they choose; and
•   use their own experiences and expertise to tackle the issues.

What's in it for me? You will share your experiences, your information, and your knowledge of various subjects. You will connect with other non-conference goers from across Canada. You will activate yourself by sharing and connecting with others and by participating in some leisure activities. You will activate your community with us for the weekend, returning to your community and meeting with your Minister and hopefully bringing your knowledge back to your community.

What will it cost me? We ask only for your time and commitment. The ALA will provide for your travel, accommodation, meals and program fees.

So what's the catch? We knew you'd be on to us! Following the weekend we ask that the participants connect with their Ministers in their riding to discuss about the weekend they have just experienced and/or subjects that they decide are important to them and their community.

How can I apply? We encourage you to connect with the Independent Living Centres and the ALA Community Development Representatives for support to apply for this opportunity. Click the following link to apply: link to the conference application section.

When do I apply? You can apply now! Sign up before our January 1st, 2007 deadline.

Priority will be given to Canadians who have not previously attended our Youth Exchange.

Contact Us: For more information on the Youth Ambassadors Across Canada Conference please contact Nadia Smith at nadia@ala.ca or 1-800-771-0663 ext. 23.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada, Social Development Partnerships Program - Disability component