FAQs
What is City Influencers?
City Influencers is a voluntary group who sign up to complete surveys on city-related topics. As recommended by the Youth Engagement Strategy, City Influencers is comprised of youth aged 18 to 30.
Why did the City create City Influencers?
City Influencers was created as a recommendation from the Youth Engagement Strategy. We heard from the engagement process that youth are interested in a variety of topics, things that impact them and their city, but there is a view that the city does not make it easy for youth to engage. As well, public meetings are a challenge for many and not a preferred approach. Youth want variety and ease of participation and notification. Engagement needs to be quick and simple. City lnfluencers provides an easy way to notify youth of opportunities and makes it easier for them to participate.
How old do you need to be to participate?
Based on the recommendation of the Youth Engagement Strategy, City Influencers is open to those 18-30 years of age.
How will I participate as a member of this Panel?
As a Panel member you will receive regular surveys/questionnaires related to topics of interest where the City is targeting Youth.
Will I be able to participate in the regular Engage activities as well?
Yes. You choose your level of participation as a registered user of EngageStJohns.ca and member of City Influencers. By providing your email address you will receive newsletters like other registered members on the site. By providing your cell number you will receive messages targeting City Influencers only.
How often will I receive surveys or opportunities to engage?
The City works with the Youth Engagement Working Group and City staff to identify topic areas that City Influencers can provide feedback on. The expectation is for monthly opportunities at least.
How does the City know I am a Youth?
Registration on the site is based on the honour principle. As people register on the site, they will be invited to participate in City Influencers based on their age. If they indicate they want to participate, additional information will be required.
How else can I get more involved in providing feedback to the City as a young person?
Consider joining the Youth Engagement Working Group. As opportunities to join the Youth Engagement Working Group become available, they will be advertised through City social media channels and online.
The City of St. John's has a Youth Engagement Working Group, comprised of individuals between the ages of 18-30 and organizations who serve those within this age demographic. This working group oversees the implementation of the Youth Engagement Strategy approved by Council in October 2020 and provides ongoing advice and guidance on how to best engage youth on City matters. The Youth Engagement Working Group provides perspective on topics that are of interest to youth, recommends the most appropriate engagement tools and methods, and helps identify barriers and gaps that might impact youth engagement. The Youth Engagement Working Group also considers how the City’s established relationships with youth serving agencies can be leveraged to ensure engagement of hard-to-reach youth such as newcomers, youth at risk, and other vulnerable groups.