Creating Connection in Shawnessy: One Movie Night at a Time

The Shawnessy Youth Council demonstrated youth leadership in action by organizing and delivering a free-of-cost community movie night in May 2025.

Through planning sessions and bi-weekly meetings, the youth council members led every stage of the planning and execution process. They led every step of the process—choosing the date, time, and location, selecting the movie, creating promotional materials, and organizing roles for the event day. Throughout this process, youth strengthened their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while learning how to turn an idea into a successful community initiative.

Their goal was to create an event that fostered connection and belonging in the Shawnessy community while empowering young people to lead. By placing decision-making directly in the hands of youth, the council created an inclusive space where peers could connect, new friendships could form, and families could come together.

On the night of the event, youth leadership was visible in action. Council members welcomed attendees, supported event logistics, and attended alongside friends they had invited to learn more about Planet Youth Calgary and the Shawnessy Youth Council. The event brought together 35 attendees, including families from across the Shawnessy area, many connecting with neighbours for the first time.

This youth-led initiative reflects an upstream, preventative approach by building leadership capacity, strengthening peer relationships, and creating positive community experiences before challenges arise. It also supported key pillars of wellbeing, including family connection, peer engagement, and accessible leisure opportunities.

What began as a planning opportunity became a meaningful example of how youth leadership can strengthen community connection and belonging.