Event Details
Welcome to PowerUp! Youth Symposium 2026!
PowerUp! Youth Symposium is the first Canadian event specifically designed for Black youth involved with Ontario's child welfare system - a space to connect, be celebrated, feel empowered, and have fun in community.
Date: Thursday March 26 2026
Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Location: Harmony Event Centre, 1011 Bloor St E, Oshawa, ON L1H 0C7
Theme: Rooted and Becoming: Discovering Who We Are; Shaping Who We'll Be
This registration form helps us ensure a safe, supportive, and meaningful experience for everyone attending.
Before You Register
👉🏽 PowerUp! is for Black-identifying children and youth who are in care or are actively involved with an Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agency or a Children's Aid Society in Ontario.
👉🏽 Programming is designed for youth aged 13 - 18.
👉🏽 Registration is required for all agency staff supporting youth attendees.
👉🏽 We offer a letter for excused absence from school and for volunteer hours.
👉🏽 PowerUp! Youth Symposium is a welcoming and inclusive space, grounded in belonging and joy. Discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, ethnicity, racial background, or any other identity factor is not aligned with the values of PowerUp! and is unwelcome in the PowerUp! space.
For more about PowerUp!, including frequently asked questions, please visit the PowerUp! event page.
At the Event
👉🏽 Breakfast, lunch and a snack will be provided for both youth and staff attending PowerUp!
👉🏽 Chaperones are expected to be familiar with the youth they are supporting, and to remain available to guide and supervise youth as needed throughout the day.
Please note that outside food is not permitted at the venue.
Additional Information
👉🏽 Registration closes on March 20th, 2026.
👉🏽 Workshop pre-registration will be done online; all registered participants will receive an email before the event to register for workshops.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at ovovadmin@oacas.org.
See you there!