The National Champions Council brings together a small group of distinguished Canadian leaders who share a commitment to expanding opportunity for young people through The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Grounded in leadership philanthropy, the Council reflects a belief that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to shape Canada’s future.
A leadership circle advancing opportunity for young people in Canada and around the world
Become a National ChampionOur Shared Vision 2030: How Champions Lead Change
National Champions Council (NCC) members serve as trusted ambassadors of the Award, playing a critical role in shaping national momentum, expanding reach, and strengthening long‑term impact across Canada. They champion a future where young people gain not only skills for work, but the character, adaptability, and sense of belonging needed to thrive. Council members recognize that investing in youth is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen society, and they commit their time, influence, and philanthropy to creating measurable impact aligned with a globally respected framework for experiential learning and youth development.
Members contribute through leadership, advocacy, and meaningful engagement that goes far beyond financial support. Their support strengthens the Award in strategic and deeply personal ways, including…
For young people facing barriers, including those in rural, northern, and underserved communities. Strengthen the long term sustainability and national scale of the Award in Canada
Bridging classroom learning with real world experience through mentorship, networks, and opportunity. Improving economic, and mental health challenges facing young people today
Ensuring a resilient philanthropic future driven by youth innovation and leadership, empowering future generations of Award participants realizing their infinite potential.
Meet Our National Champions
Chris Blackwell
Fouzia Younis
Lou-Gizzarelli
Peter Lawless
The National Champions Council is a call to Canadians who believe that every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential. By joining this national effort, you will help build an inclusive, future-ready generation of Canadians—and a stronger nation for us all.
Chris Blackwell - Chair National Champions CouncilBecome a National Champion
We invite you to join the National Champions Council, lending your voice, network, and support to help the Award reach more young people in more communities with deeper impact. Council members understand that investing in youth is one of the most powerful ways to build a stronger, more resilient society, and they commit their time, influence, and philanthropy to creating measurable impact aligned with a globally respected framework for youth development—building a legacy of Canadian leadership that opens doors for generations to come.
As a member, you will:
Join a respected national community of peers who share a commitment to leadership, service, and opportunity
Contribute to a proven, evidence informed model of experiential learning with more than 60 years of global impact
Gain meaningful insight into the challenges and aspirations of young people across Canada
Help shape the future direction and legacy of the Award at a national level
See first hand how your leadership and support translate into life changing experiences for young people
Philanthropy and the World Fellowship
Philanthropy is an integral part of the National Champions Council. Members are invited to consider financial support as a way to deepen their impact and help scale access to the Award nationally and globally. Opportunities for giving, recognition, and engagement are outlined through our Philanthropy and World Fellowship pathways, which include meaningful stewardship and, at the highest levels, access to exclusive global events and experiences connected to the International Award Foundation and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
For more information, please contact:
Anastazia Krneta [email protected]
Director, Philanthropy
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada
