MOOSE JAW — Moose Jaw’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) wrapped up its year with a mock city council meeting last week, offering high school students a hands-on opportunity to learn how local government works and why civic engagement matters.
Held inside city hall’s council chambers on the morning of June 4, the session saw students debate the recent change to school zone speed limits, which lowered the maximum from 40 km/h to 30 km/h. The discussion mirrored a real-world decision made by council earlier.
“We tried to get more information so we could understand the pros and cons better and eventually come to our own decision,” explained Mateah Purdy, a Grade 12 student at Cornerstone Christian School and this year’s YAC chairperson. “What was interesting — just like last year — our vote ended up being the same as what council voted.”
This year’s committee included Kaylee Hogeboom and Lucas Kastning from A.E. Peacock Collegiate; Arlyn Dequina and Maria Pouteaux from Vanier Collegiate; Drew Amell and Ben Ansell from Central Collegiate; Drew Biette and Mateah Purdy from Cornerstone Christian School; Emma Russell and Lexus Schoffer from Riverview Collegiate; and Altaf Iqbal Mansuri and Nandinee Barot from Saskatchewan Polytechnic.
The committee focused on understanding not just policy outcomes but also how motions are made, how debate is structured, and how votes are taken. Students also had the chance to step into leadership roles, with two members assuming the role of mayor and deputy mayor.
“It was really great seeing Arlyn and Ben act as mayor and deputy mayor. I think they enjoyed it,” Purdy said. “The biggest thing we all take away is just seeing how council actually runs — how many procedures there are to ensure everyone’s voice is heard, and how decisions are made fairly.”
Made up of two student representatives from each of Moose Jaw’s five local high schools and Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the 12-member committee helps youth learn about civic responsibility while offering input on local issues. Positions are also open for homeschooled students, youth enrolled in distance learning, and two youth-at-large aged 18 to 25 who are not currently students at the represented schools.
In addition to student input, one member of city council sits on the committee, providing guidance and a direct connection to municipal leadership. The group meets monthly during the school year in the Scoop Lewry Room at city hall.
The Youth Advisory Committee was created to build stronger communication between city council and the youth of Moose Jaw. Its purpose includes promoting public awareness of local government among young people, encouraging community activism, and making recommendations on recreational and policy initiatives that affect youth. Members are also encouraged to network with peers, student councils, and community leaders.
Purdy said the experience has shaped her understanding of leadership and given her a head start on skills that will serve her well after graduation.
“You learn so much from being on the committee. It teaches you about leadership, professional interaction, and it’s a great experience to put on a resume or university application,” she said. “It’s such a high-quality group of people. I look forward to seeing what they’ll all go on to do.”
As all 12 current members prepare to graduate, the city is encouraging new applicants for the 2025–26 term. Student representatives are selected through their schools each fall and Purdy said she hopes more youth will step forward to apply.
“It’s a big responsibility, but such an amazing experience,” she said. “If anyone’s thinking about it — go for it.”
Students interested in joining the Youth Advisory Committee are encouraged to contact their school’s administration for further information on how to apply.
