Toronto hosts first Canada–Azerbaijan youth forum

The first Canada–Azerbaijan Youth Forum has been held in Toronto with the support of Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Work with the Diaspora, organisers have said.

The forum, titled “New Generation Canadians”, was organised by the Azerbaijani Art and Culture Centre “Vatan” on 2 February, marking Azerbaijan Youth Day, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

According to the State Committee, the event served as an important platform for Azerbaijani youth living in Canada to build professional networks, develop leadership skills and preserve their national identity.

Vagif Seyidbayov, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, said the forum would help young Azerbaijanis integrate into Canadian society while strengthening their ties with Azerbaijan.

Head of the Azerbaijani House in Canada, Lalin Hasanova, highlighted the importance of young people making effective use of opportunities offered by the Azerbaijani House. She stressed the need to maintain national identity and cultural values, as well as to represent Azerbaijan with dignity in their countries of residence.

During the event, an official congratulatory letter from Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and Member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, Stan Cho, was read out. The letter wished success to the forum and its participants.

Other speakers praised initiatives aimed at youth development, describing the forum as a valuable platform for building connections and discussing opportunities relevant to young professionals.

The programme continued with sessions and panel discussions focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship and personal development.

At a session titled “Builders of the Future: How Youth Can Innovate, Communicate and Lead as Entrepreneurs”, trainer Parvin Abdullayeva shared advice on fostering innovative thinking and leadership skills. Public speaking trainer Steve Elliott also delivered a workshop titled “Think Fast, Speak Effectively: Communication for Future Leaders”, offering practical guidance on improving communication and presentation abilities.

Panel discussions were also held under the themes “Big Ideas, Real Stories: Insights from Successful Entrepreneurs”, “Learn, Win and Grow: Balancing Education and Career”, and “Voices of Experience: Lessons You Won’t Find in Textbooks”. The discussions brought together young participants and Azerbaijani academics with experience at several Canadian universities.

By Aghakazim Guliyev