Young CANA Talks is a youth-focused version of CANA Talks, created by young people, for young people.

It gives students the opportunity to step onto a stage (or school platform) and share original ideas, reflections, and insights on topics that matter to them and to the world around them — all within a supportive, faith-informed framework.

Young CANA speakers explore themes such as:

• happiness and purpose
• faith and science
• climate and care for creation
• social concerns and justice
• creativity, innovation, and hope

Young CANA Talks is designed for students approximately 10–13 years old, helping them find their voice at a formative stage of life.

Young CANA Talks is about formation, not performance.

For speakers, it offers:

• the chance to explore a topic deeply and thoughtfully
• growth in confidence, communication, and presentation skills
• an opportunity to connect faith with real questions and experiences
• the experience of being taken seriously — their ideas matter

For audiences, it offers:

• inspiration from peers
• positive, hopeful messages grounded in real life
• encouragement to think more deeply about faith, meaning, and purpose

Every participant is affirmed, supported, and encouraged — this is not about pressure or perfection.

Young CANA Talks is delivered in partnership with schools.

• Schools host their own internal heats or selection process
• Interested students apply through their school
• Selected students receive guidance and coaching to help shape their talk
• All participating students receive a certificate of participation
• Finalists are invited to take part in a wider Young CANA Talks event in a major theatre

CANA Network works closely with teachers to ensure the experience is age-appropriate, educational, and positive.

Yes.

CANA Network supports schools by helping young speakers:

• clarify their ideas
• structure a short, engaging talk
• speak with confidence and authenticity
• communicate in a way that connects with their peers

The emphasis is always on encouragement, growth, and confidence, not competition.

Young CANA Talks is about helping young people:

• discover that their voice matters
• see faith as something living and relevant
• grow in confidence, curiosity, and hope

It is an invitation to young people to step forward — not to impress, but to inspire.