YLI – Young Leaders Initiative for Teens 14–17
A leadership program for teens & high school students ages 14–17 seeking to improve their leadership skills while gaining volunteer experience.
Introducing the WILDE Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI)
The WILDE YLI is a 10-day outdoor leadership program designed for youth ages 14–17 who are ready to challenge themselves, grow their confidence, and explore what it means to be a leader in the world.
The program takes place entirely outdoors, where participants spend their days developing practical skills like bushcraft, fire building, orienteering, canoeing, biking, and environmental stewardship — all while learning to lead through teamwork, communication, and self-awareness.
Throughout the program, leadership development is woven into every activity.
- Campers take turns guiding group challenges, making decisions, and reflecting on how different leadership styles influence group dynamics.
- Midway through the program, the group embarks on an off-site leadership trip, giving participants a chance to apply their leadership skills in a new and unfamiliar environment.
- In the final days, campers take part in a youth-led overnight expedition, where they plan routes, manage camp logistics, and work together to navigate real-world challenges with minimal staff direction.
The WILDE Youth Leadership Initiative is more than a camp — it’s an opportunity for young people to step into responsibility, develop independence, and learn what it means to lead with empathy, confidence, and respect for the natural world. By the end of the program, participants leave with a deeper sense of who they are, what they stand for, and how they can contribute as leaders in their communities.
The Details
Develop a Leadership Portfolio
Each participant builds a Leadership Portfolio over the course of the program — a record of their growth that includes reflections, trip plans, and feedback from peers. Through this process, campers discover their unique leadership strengths and gain practical tools they can use in school, in their communities, and beyond.
Gain Volunteer Experience
As part of the WILDE Youth Leadership Initiative, participants will have the opportunity to plan and facilitate activities with younger WILDE Camp groups throughout the two-week program. Working alongside experienced mentors, YLI campers will help design, organize, and lead portions of daily activities — such as games, nature walks, skill demonstrations, or team challenges.
This hands-on leadership experience allows participants to practice real-world communication, problem-solving, and mentorship skills while contributing meaningfully to the WILDE Camp community. Their involvement strengthens their confidence as emerging leaders and also qualifies as community service hours for high school, providing a valuable way to give back while gaining practical experience in leadership and education.
Equipment Needed
- life jacket/PFD
- rain gear (jacket, pants, boots)
- hiking boots, running shoes, water shoes (no crocs)
- backpack
- sun protective wear
- water bottle
- packed lunch
Program Dates:
Summer Sessions (10 Days)
- Session 1: June 29 - July 10
- Session 2: July 13 - 24
- Session 3: July 27 - Aug 7
- Session 4: Aug 10 - Aug 21
Cost for Program:
- Minimum 1 Session (2 weeks consecutively)
- Early bird: $330 / week (register before April 1st, 2026)
- Regular price: $350 / week
With a 4 week YLI registration save 25%
FAQs
Curious about Wilde School and our programs? Contact us anytime and we'll be happy to walk you through our programs, our approach, and answer any questions you might have.
Who Are We Looking For? The Ideal LIT Program Applicant
We’re looking for high school students who have a passion for the outdoors. Students who are willing to take on a challenge and push themselves.
You will get the opportunity to help teach and support elementary students, developing your leadership and outdoor skills.
You will be joining a group of highly trained teachers, outdoor educators, and therapists providing fun and experiential education to youth.
What About My Highschool Credits/Diploma?
Our leadership program compliments the Ontario curriculum for high school education. Not only will students participate in teaching and leading younger students, they will gain hard skills in a variety of outdoor pursuits, develop their soft skills of organisation, responsibility, public speaking, and critical thinking and they will help to design and lead a community outreach program.
There are no high school credits given for participating in this program.