Archived listing. The details below describe a past opening.
About the Role
Do you believe young people can help transform the world?The Congregation of Jesus (CJ) | Loretto Sisters have been promoting education, spirituality and justice in Canada since 1847. They are civilly incorporated under the name âThe Loretto Ladiesâ Colleges and Schoolsâ (Loretto), a registered non-profit charitable organization.
One of Loretto’s ministries, The Mary Ward Centre, is seeking an energetic, creative, and faith-inspired Youth Engagement Animator for Social Justice Advocacy (Youth Animator) to accompany and empower youth and young adults (ages 15-35) as leaders for justice, peace, human dignity, and the integrity of creation.
Rooted in the Gospel, Catholic Social Teaching, the Mary Ward charism, and Ignatian spirituality, this role engages young people in leadership formation, advocacy, and meaningful action on today's most pressing social, economic, and ecological challenges. Through mentorship, education, community engagement, and youth-led initiatives, the successful candidate will help young people develop the skills, confidence, and opportunities to become effective advocates for change.
Key ResponsibilitiesThe Youth Animator will:
- Design and facilitate spiritually grounded leadership formation and social justice education programs for youth.
- Mentor and support emerging young leaders, advocates, and organizers.
- Develop and coordinate youth-led advocacy initiatives focused on human rights, ecological justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, sustainable development, and anti-human trafficking efforts.
- Create opportunities for young people to engage with public policy and decision-makers at local, national, and international levels.
- Prepare and support youth delegates participating in advocacy initiatives, including opportunities connected to the United Nations.
- Build relationships with schools, youth-serving organizations, faith communities, and justice-focused networks.
- Develop engaging communications and storytelling initiatives that amplify youth voices and inspire action.
- Collaborate with The Mary Ward Centre, Loretto Maryholme, the CJ Canada network, the IBVM/CJ UN Office (New York) CJ justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) networks, Roman Catholic Religious congregations, ecumenical and interfaith organizations, and other like-minded community organizations to strengthen youth participation in social justice advocacy.
QualificationsThe ideal candidate will have:
- A demonstrated commitment to youth leadership, social justice, and community engagement.
- Knowledge of Catholic Social Teaching, the Mary Ward charism, Ignatian spirituality, or a willingness to learn.
- Experience working with youth in educational, faith-based, advocacy, or community settings.
- Experience in advocacy, community organizing, leadership development, public policy, or social justice initiatives.
- Strong facilitation, relationship-building, mentoring, communication, and project management skills.
- The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse partners and stakeholders.
- Strong research, writing, and presentation skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, social media platforms, and digital communication tools.
Working Conditions
- Location: Mary Ward Centre at Loretto College (70 St Mary St, Toronto ON M5S 1J3), with the possibility for some hybrid work
- Hours: 37.5 hours/week, including evening and weekend work
- Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000 plus benefits
- Start Date: Monday, November 2nd, 2026
Reporting Relationship
The Youth Animator reports to the Director of the Mary Ward Centre and works collaboratively with Mary Ward Centre staff, CJ ministries, and justice-focused partner organizations.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to help shape a growing community of young leaders committed to justice, peace, and social transformation. You will work alongside passionate partners in Canada and internationally, including the IBVM/CJ United Nations Office, while supporting youth in finding their voice and making a meaningful impact in their communities and the world.
Primary Outcome
A growing and diverse community of youth and young adults who are formed, connected, and actively engaged in advocacy for justice, peace, human dignity, gender equality, and care for creation at local, national, and global levels.
A criminal background check will be required of the successful applicant.
Application Deadline: Monday, October 5, 2026
Submit your letter of intent, resume and references to Dolores Kwapien at [email protected]
We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Only selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.
If you are passionate about empowering young people, advancing social justice, and working within a faith-based environment committed to systemic change, we encourage you to apply.
