Thank You, ACSEL: Celebrating Three Years of Youth-Led Change in Alberta

After three incredible years, Volunteer Alberta's Alberta Civil Society Emerging Leaders (ACSEL) program has come to a close at the end of the 2025–2026 cycle.

ACSEL was built on the belief that young people can create real, meaningful change in their communities. Through microgrants and hands-on experience in project management, budgeting, and community collaboration, ACSEL supported 70 young leaders in Alberta turn their ideas into action.

These young leaders organized cultural celebrations, launched wellness initiatives, and built spaces for connection and belonging, with each project being a reflection of their creativity, compassion, and civic spirit. Together, their projects reached more than 10,000 Albertans, creating moments of connection and impact across the province.

To celebrate everything accomplished, we hosted "ACSEL Homecoming" this year, a virtual Pecha Kucha showcase where past participants shared the stories behind their projects. Please visit our social media channels to see photos of some of the amazing ACSEL projects over the years and celebrate the remarkable work they've done. We're deeply grateful to Canada Service Corps and to every partner, mentor, and supporter who championed this work alongside us.

Most of all, to the 70 emerging leaders who took part in the ACSEL program: thank you for showing up, for leading, and for building something truly special.

Alberta is better because of you.