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Enpowering Youth in Politics

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It was an honor speaking with Professor Beth Rubin, Professor of Education and Social Studies Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. She is one of the leading scholars studying how young people develop civic understanding and identity, and her work has greatly informed our own youth civic campaigns. Our conversation began with Professor Rubin’s leadership in the Civically Engaged Districts Project, which partners with public school districts in New Jersey to embed student-led inquiry and civic voice in classrooms. We explored how schools can treat young people as “citizens of the now” by transforming them from passive recipients of civic education into active co-creators through Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR). We then transitioned to her scholarship that has directly influenced our Vote16 work, particularly “It’s Going to Go Beyond These Walls: Toward a More Expansive Vision of Civic Learning.” We explored her idea of cultivating bottom-up civic learning through “critical ecosystems of civic learning.” Professor Rubin explained how civic learning is inherently affective and relational, yet often suppressed in the name of neutrality. We discussed how recognizing the classroom as a “figured world,” where power, identity, and knowledge are socially and historically situated, can actually help educators avoid reinforcing dominant narratives and existing inequalities. To conclude, we touched on the challenges facing civic education today, from rising polarization and disinformation to growing political disillusionment, and how educators can better prepare students for meaningful civic participation. Stay until the end to hear Professor Rubin share which of the places she has studied and taught has the best food scene!

It was an honor speaking with Professor Beth Rubin, Professor of Education and Social Studies Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. She is one of the leading scholars studying how young people develop civic understanding and identity, and her work has greatly informed our own youth civic campaigns. Our conversation began with Professor Rubin’s leadership in the Civically Engaged Districts Project, which partners with public school districts in New Jersey to embed student-led inquiry and civic voice in classrooms. We explored how schools can treat young people as “citizens of the now” by transforming them from passive recipients of civic education into active co-creators through Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR). We then transitioned to her scholarship that has directly influenced our Vote16 work, particularly “It’s Going to Go Beyond These Walls: Toward a More Expansive Vision of Civic Learning.” We explored her idea of cultivating bottom-up civic learning through “critical ecosystems of civic learning.” Professor Rubin explained how civic learning is inherently affective and relational, yet often suppressed in the name of neutrality. We discussed how recognizing the classroom as a “figured world,” where power, identity, and knowledge are socially and historically situated, can actually help educators avoid reinforcing dominant narratives and existing inequalities. To conclude, we touched on the challenges facing civic education today, from rising polarization and disinformation to growing political disillusionment, and how educators can better prepare students for meaningful civic participation. Stay until the end to hear Professor Rubin share which of the places she has studied and taught has the best food scene!

We’ve been reading BCBusiness for as long as we can remember, so being named to the 30 Under 30 list feels beyond surreal. Whether it was chatting with Ms. Saini and Mr. Öztürk at the photoshoot or now reading through the incredible profiles of everyone on the list, we’re still a little puzzled about how we ended up among the province’s most inspiring leaders. It is truly an honor. We are incredibly grateful and cannot wait to meet everyone in person soon!

Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially the entire team @bcbusiness_mag . We wanted to sincerely thank Ms. Agarwal, Ms. Jacquot, Ms. Ho, Ms. Solang, Ms. Matheson, and Ms. Reed. A special shoutout thanks to Mr. Nabei for helping capture some wonderful photos of two not-so-photogenic guys. : )

Here’s to seeing more young Canadians in government, in business, in art, in tech, and in leading change. Leadership and impact are never defined by age!

We’ve been reading BCBusiness for as long as we can remember, so being named to the 30 Under 30 list feels beyond surreal. Whether it was chatting with Ms. Saini and Mr. Öztürk at the photoshoot or now reading through the incredible profiles of everyone on the list, we’re still a little puzzled about how we ended up among the province’s most inspiring leaders. It is truly an honor. We are incredibly grateful and cannot wait to meet everyone in person soon!

Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially the entire team @bcbusiness_mag . We wanted to sincerely thank Ms. Agarwal, Ms. Jacquot, Ms. Ho, Ms. Solang, Ms. Matheson, and Ms. Reed. A special shoutout thanks to Mr. Nabei for helping capture some wonderful photos of two not-so-photogenic guys. : )

Here’s to seeing more young Canadians in government, in business, in art, in tech, and in leading change. Leadership and impact are never defined by age!

Still in shock how we ended up on the 2026 Vancouver Power 50 list alongside the most incredible leaders and changemakers in Vancouver. We never expected this and are truly at a loss for words. But we wanted to express that we are beyond honoured, deeply grateful and most of all humbled by this recognition of a lifetime. Thank you so much!

Of course, none of this would have ever been possible without the unwavering support of our parents, teachers, mentors, podcast guests, MP Weiler, Norman, Natasha and the entire office, Aleksi & Dave (the entire Vote16 Canada team), and all of our partner organizations who believed in us. As we said in our speech, we want to dedicate our award to all the young Canadians out there. To you, we say: we are ready, we are capable, and we belong at the table. While we may only be 20% of the current population, we are 100% of the future.

Special shoutout to everyone at @vancouvermagazine , the selection committee, Mr. Benn (oops, Ryan), Ms. Jacquot, Ms. McLachlan, all the awe-inspiring changemakers, our idols we were lucky enough to meet, and @visionphotogs for somehow managing to make us look about 50x better than we actually do in real life! Forever grateful. Forever Vancouver.

Still in shock how we ended up on the 2026 Vancouver Power 50 list alongside the most incredible leaders and changemakers in Vancouver. We never expected this and are truly at a loss for words. But we wanted to express that we are beyond honoured, deeply grateful and most of all humbled by this recognition of a lifetime. Thank you so much!

Of course, none of this would have ever been possible without the unwavering support of our parents, teachers, mentors, podcast guests, MP Weiler, Norman, Natasha and the entire office, Aleksi & Dave (the entire Vote16 Canada team), and all of our partner organizations who believed in us. As we said in our speech, we want to dedicate our award to all the young Canadians out there. To you, we say: we are ready, we are capable, and we belong at the table. While we may only be 20% of the current population, we are 100% of the future.

Special shoutout to everyone at @vancouvermagazine , the selection committee, Mr. Benn (oops, Ryan), Ms. Jacquot, Ms. McLachlan, all the awe-inspiring changemakers, our idols we were lucky enough to meet, and @visionphotogs for somehow managing to make us look about 50x better than we actually do in real life! Forever grateful. Forever Vancouver.

We had the privilege of an incredible conversation with MP Jake Sawatzky, Member of Parliament for New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville. Our discussion touches on MP Sawatzky’s journey into politics and his remarkable uphill election victory in the 2025 federal election, where he defeated a two decade long incumbent. Drawing on his extensive background in neuroscience and counselling psychology, we discussed the current state of mental health and addiction in Canada and the importance of implementing step-down services and rehabilitation centres. As one of only four Members of Parliament born in the 21st century, MP Sawatzky also shares the reality of serving as a young leader in government, the challenges he has faced, his priorities as chair of the Liberal Youth Caucus, and his thoughts on strengthening youth engagement in Canadian democracy. Stay until the end to hear about MP Sawatzky’s concert booking agency, We Outside, and the most memorable concert he has ever hosted. Check it out!

Special thanks to MP Sawatzky his wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

We had the privilege of an incredible conversation with MP Jake Sawatzky, Member of Parliament for New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville. Our discussion touches on MP Sawatzky’s journey into politics and his remarkable uphill election victory in the 2025 federal election, where he defeated a two decade long incumbent. Drawing on his extensive background in neuroscience and counselling psychology, we discussed the current state of mental health and addiction in Canada and the importance of implementing step-down services and rehabilitation centres. As one of only four Members of Parliament born in the 21st century, MP Sawatzky also shares the reality of serving as a young leader in government, the challenges he has faced, his priorities as chair of the Liberal Youth Caucus, and his thoughts on strengthening youth engagement in Canadian democracy. Stay until the end to hear about MP Sawatzky’s concert booking agency, We Outside, and the most memorable concert he has ever hosted. Check it out!

Special thanks to MP Sawatzky his wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

It was an honor speaking with Professor Patrick Heller, Lyn Crost Professor of Social Sciences, Professor of International and Public Affairs and Sociology, and the newly appointed Director of the Saxena Center for Contemporary South Asia at Brown University. He is one of the world’s leading experts on social inequality, democracy, and civil societies, with groundbreaking research spanning India, Brazil, and South Africa. Our conversation began with Professor Heller’s work on democracy, drawing on “Deliberation and Development: Rethinking the Role of Voice and Collective Action in Unequal Societies.” We discussed democracy beyond elections, the intrinsic value of participation, and how structured participation builds effective citizenship, particularly for marginalized voices. We then transitioned to participatory budgeting (PB), drawing on Professor Heller’s “Bootstrapping Democracy: Transforming Local Governance and Civil Society in Brazil” to investigate why PB succeeded in Brazil, what this model reveals about deepening democratic practices even in contexts of immense inequality, and the possible institutional designs that can mitigate growth machine politics. Our conversation then diverged into Professor Heller’s incredible work on the Cities of Delhi and Citizenship, Inequality, and Urban Governance (CIUG) projects, focusing on the concept of differentiated citizenship and the specific mechanisms through which inequality shapes urban democracy. To conclude, we discussed the impact of entrenched colonial legacies still shaping urban life today across Brazil, South Africa, and India, as well as how the fate of democratic deepening depends on the intricate balance between political parties and civil society. Stay until the end to hear about Professor Heller’s favourite memories in India, along with his recommended Indian cuisine!

P.S. A huge thank you to Professor Heller for surviving a fire drill with us! :)

It was an honor speaking with Professor Patrick Heller, Lyn Crost Professor of Social Sciences, Professor of International and Public Affairs and Sociology, and the newly appointed Director of the Saxena Center for Contemporary South Asia at Brown University. He is one of the world’s leading experts on social inequality, democracy, and civil societies, with groundbreaking research spanning India, Brazil, and South Africa. Our conversation began with Professor Heller’s work on democracy, drawing on “Deliberation and Development: Rethinking the Role of Voice and Collective Action in Unequal Societies.” We discussed democracy beyond elections, the intrinsic value of participation, and how structured participation builds effective citizenship, particularly for marginalized voices. We then transitioned to participatory budgeting (PB), drawing on Professor Heller’s “Bootstrapping Democracy: Transforming Local Governance and Civil Society in Brazil” to investigate why PB succeeded in Brazil, what this model reveals about deepening democratic practices even in contexts of immense inequality, and the possible institutional designs that can mitigate growth machine politics. Our conversation then diverged into Professor Heller’s incredible work on the Cities of Delhi and Citizenship, Inequality, and Urban Governance (CIUG) projects, focusing on the concept of differentiated citizenship and the specific mechanisms through which inequality shapes urban democracy. To conclude, we discussed the impact of entrenched colonial legacies still shaping urban life today across Brazil, South Africa, and India, as well as how the fate of democratic deepening depends on the intricate balance between political parties and civil society. Stay until the end to hear about Professor Heller’s favourite memories in India, along with his recommended Indian cuisine!

P.S. A huge thank you to Professor Heller for surviving a fire drill with us! :)

Check out Minister Qualtrough’s thoughts on increasing sport accessibility for underrepresented groups through grassroots programs!

Check out Minister Qualtrough’s thoughts on increasing sport accessibility for underrepresented groups through grassroots programs!

Check out MP Carr’s thoughts on improving our education system.

Check out MP Carr’s thoughts on improving our education system.

We had the absolute privilege of speaking with Professor Nolan McCarty, Susan Dod Brown Professor of Politics and Public Affairs, and Vice Dean for Academic Affairs in the Office of the Dean of the Faculty at Princeton University. He is one of, if not the, leading scholar in polarization, democratic institutions, and political economy. Our conversation began with polarization, analyzing the self-reinforcing “doom loop” explored in Professor McCarty’s "Polarization: What Everyone Needs to Know" and its implications for citizens’ trust in public institutions. We then discussed the inseparable link between economic inequality and affective polarization, exploring how individuals’ willingness to engage in cross group cooperation shifts during economic upswings and downturns. Our conversation then ranged from the historical formation of polarization among political elites to today's fragmented media environment, which rewards conflict and partisan attacks, as well as potential solutions such as revitalizing local journalism and altering the systemic incentive structures of big media. Looking to the present, we discussed Professor McCarty’s book "Political Bubbles: Financial Crises and the Failure of American Democracy." We examined policy capture, how the 2008 financial crash parallels the concept of political bubbles, and how similar bubbles may be forming in areas such as crypto and AI. We then transitioned to discussing representation and voting, with a focus on ranked-choice voting and its potential drawbacks, including the possibility of non-majority winners, high rates of ballot exhaustion, and the weakening of political power among minority communities. Lastly, we capped off our discussion by looking at the paradox of transparency, where increased transparency and sunshine laws in congressional negotiations can actually reduce the chances of compromise, and the importance of balancing democratic accountability with the pragmatic need for private bargaining. Stay until the end to hear about Professor McCarty’s remarkable and almost superhuman running regimen, his journey, and best advice for runners along the way!

We had the absolute privilege of speaking with Professor Nolan McCarty, Susan Dod Brown Professor of Politics and Public Affairs, and Vice Dean for Academic Affairs in the Office of the Dean of the Faculty at Princeton University. He is one of, if not the, leading scholar in polarization, democratic institutions, and political economy. Our conversation began with polarization, analyzing the self-reinforcing “doom loop” explored in Professor McCarty’s "Polarization: What Everyone Needs to Know" and its implications for citizens’ trust in public institutions. We then discussed the inseparable link between economic inequality and affective polarization, exploring how individuals’ willingness to engage in cross group cooperation shifts during economic upswings and downturns. Our conversation then ranged from the historical formation of polarization among political elites to today's fragmented media environment, which rewards conflict and partisan attacks, as well as potential solutions such as revitalizing local journalism and altering the systemic incentive structures of big media. Looking to the present, we discussed Professor McCarty’s book "Political Bubbles: Financial Crises and the Failure of American Democracy." We examined policy capture, how the 2008 financial crash parallels the concept of political bubbles, and how similar bubbles may be forming in areas such as crypto and AI. We then transitioned to discussing representation and voting, with a focus on ranked-choice voting and its potential drawbacks, including the possibility of non-majority winners, high rates of ballot exhaustion, and the weakening of political power among minority communities. Lastly, we capped off our discussion by looking at the paradox of transparency, where increased transparency and sunshine laws in congressional negotiations can actually reduce the chances of compromise, and the importance of balancing democratic accountability with the pragmatic need for private bargaining. Stay until the end to hear about Professor McCarty’s remarkable and almost superhuman running regimen, his journey, and best advice for runners along the way!

We had the absolute honour of speaking with MLA Rob Botterell, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Saanich North and the Islands, whom we first had the pleasure of meeting in person at the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform this summer. In this episode, we explored MLA Botterell’s leadership on British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and how it helped open up a long-standing “black box” within government. We also discussed the BC Green Party’s core values, priorities in the next legislative sitting, and the misconception that prioritizing people and protecting the environment are mutually exclusive. Drawing on his 25 years as an Indigenous rights lawyer, MLA Botterell also shared his perspective on key Indigenous concerns, from major challenges plaguing Indigenous communities today to his critique of Bill 15, including its bypass of Indigenous consultation and the risk it poses to years of reconciliation efforts. We then discussed CARGA, the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord between the BC NDP and BC Green Caucuses in British Columbia, especially in terms of interparty collaboration on tariff response policies, and what comes next for youth engagement and Vote16 following the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform. Stay to the end to hear which creative social media challenge has been MLA Botterell’s favourite!

Special thanks to MLA Botterell and Mr. Hook for this terrific opportunity!

We had the absolute honour of speaking with MLA Rob Botterell, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Saanich North and the Islands, whom we first had the pleasure of meeting in person at the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform this summer. In this episode, we explored MLA Botterell’s leadership on British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and how it helped open up a long-standing “black box” within government. We also discussed the BC Green Party’s core values, priorities in the next legislative sitting, and the misconception that prioritizing people and protecting the environment are mutually exclusive. Drawing on his 25 years as an Indigenous rights lawyer, MLA Botterell also shared his perspective on key Indigenous concerns, from major challenges plaguing Indigenous communities today to his critique of Bill 15, including its bypass of Indigenous consultation and the risk it poses to years of reconciliation efforts. We then discussed CARGA, the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord between the BC NDP and BC Green Caucuses in British Columbia, especially in terms of interparty collaboration on tariff response policies, and what comes next for youth engagement and Vote16 following the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform. Stay to the end to hear which creative social media challenge has been MLA Botterell’s favourite!

Special thanks to MLA Botterell and Mr. Hook for this terrific opportunity!

We had the absolute privilege of speaking with Professor Wendy Schiller, Alison S. Ressler Professor of Political Science at Brown University and one of the most prominent voices in American politics. You have likely seen her across major outlets including MSNBC, NPR, CNN, and Bloomberg News, among countless others. Our conversation explored her work on the Senate, beginning with Electing the Senate: Indirect Democracy before the Seventeenth Amendment, where we discussed the original system of indirect elections and the new challenges introduced by direct statewide campaigns. We then turned to the modern dual representation system and how it creates both opportunities and tensions in accountability. We next shifted to polarization, drawing on her work Dynamics of American Democracy: Partisan Polarization, Political Competition, and Government Performance, where we examined the line between healthy competition that strengthens democracy and destructive competition that rewards obstruction. We talked about its roots dating back to Jefferson and Hamilton, the role of digital media in accelerating division, and how voters can still meaningfully hold governments to account even in periods of gridlock and policy oscillation. To conclude, we turned to her current scholarship on domestic violence, drawing on Inequality Across State Lines to explore how structural gaps and uneven state enforcement allow key protections to erode, particularly in preventing firearm access and limiting the conditions that allow violence to persist. We also challenged the misconception that the digital age has simply improved help-seeking, since technology often strengthens abusers’ control rather than weakening it. Stay until the end to hear who Professor Schiller would choose to have dinner with in all of history and why. Check it out!

We had the absolute privilege of speaking with Professor Wendy Schiller, Alison S. Ressler Professor of Political Science at Brown University and one of the most prominent voices in American politics. You have likely seen her across major outlets including MSNBC, NPR, CNN, and Bloomberg News, among countless others. Our conversation explored her work on the Senate, beginning with Electing the Senate: Indirect Democracy before the Seventeenth Amendment, where we discussed the original system of indirect elections and the new challenges introduced by direct statewide campaigns. We then turned to the modern dual representation system and how it creates both opportunities and tensions in accountability. We next shifted to polarization, drawing on her work Dynamics of American Democracy: Partisan Polarization, Political Competition, and Government Performance, where we examined the line between healthy competition that strengthens democracy and destructive competition that rewards obstruction. We talked about its roots dating back to Jefferson and Hamilton, the role of digital media in accelerating division, and how voters can still meaningfully hold governments to account even in periods of gridlock and policy oscillation. To conclude, we turned to her current scholarship on domestic violence, drawing on Inequality Across State Lines to explore how structural gaps and uneven state enforcement allow key protections to erode, particularly in preventing firearm access and limiting the conditions that allow violence to persist. We also challenged the misconception that the digital age has simply improved help-seeking, since technology often strengthens abusers’ control rather than weakening it. Stay until the end to hear who Professor Schiller would choose to have dinner with in all of history and why. Check it out!

We had the honor of sitting down with Professor Paul Starr, the Stuart Chair in Communications and Public Affairs at Princeton and recipient of the Pulitzer Prize. So it comes as no surprise that he is a leading scholar across countless fields, including democracy, healthcare, and media. We began our conversation discussing his new work, American Contradiction: Revolution and Revenge from the 1950s to Now, which can be purchased now! We chatted about what drove Professor Starr to this project, the oscillating clash between the politics of revolution and the politics of revenge, and how these historical forces continue to shape our democracy today. We also chatted about the ongoing tariff wars and the implications for Canada and U.S. relations, before transitioning to universal healthcare. Drawing on his experience as senior health policy advisor to President Clinton during the Health Security Act push, we spoke about the factors that have prevented the United States from adopting such a system and the future of healthcare reform in the Trump era. Lastly, we spoke about media, a subject in which Professor Starr has plenty of experience, having co-founded The American Prospect, one of the most prominent public-policy magazines. We spoke about the degradation of the media landscape, the growing vulnerability of democracies to disinformation, and how to preserve trust while advancing genuine pluralistic debates on public policy. To wrap things up, we also got to learn about the Renaissance man side of Professor Starr and why he is truly a “trespasser” across disciplines! Check it out!

We had the honor of sitting down with Professor Paul Starr, the Stuart Chair in Communications and Public Affairs at Princeton and recipient of the Pulitzer Prize. So it comes as no surprise that he is a leading scholar across countless fields, including democracy, healthcare, and media. We began our conversation discussing his new work, American Contradiction: Revolution and Revenge from the 1950s to Now, which can be purchased now! We chatted about what drove Professor Starr to this project, the oscillating clash between the politics of revolution and the politics of revenge, and how these historical forces continue to shape our democracy today. We also chatted about the ongoing tariff wars and the implications for Canada and U.S. relations, before transitioning to universal healthcare. Drawing on his experience as senior health policy advisor to President Clinton during the Health Security Act push, we spoke about the factors that have prevented the United States from adopting such a system and the future of healthcare reform in the Trump era. Lastly, we spoke about media, a subject in which Professor Starr has plenty of experience, having co-founded The American Prospect, one of the most prominent public-policy magazines. We spoke about the degradation of the media landscape, the growing vulnerability of democracies to disinformation, and how to preserve trust while advancing genuine pluralistic debates on public policy. To wrap things up, we also got to learn about the Renaissance man side of Professor Starr and why he is truly a “trespasser” across disciplines! Check it out!

What a wonderful conversation we had with Minister Jessie Sunner, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Surrey-Newton and the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, whom we first had the pleasure of meeting in person at the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reforms this summer. We discussed the affordability crisis, mental health, and the K to 12 Anti-Racism Action Plan before shifting to post secondary issues. We addressed the province’s commitment to making education more accessible and affordable through programs such as the B.C. Access Grants and StudentAid BC, and we also explored how curriculum change can better prepare students with the skills needed for the future as AI and automation advance at an unprecedented pace. Lastly, we ended our conversation by discussing how to strengthen youth engagement in democracy. Stay until the end to hear Minister Sunner’s recommendations for must-visit destinations in Surrey!

Special thanks to Minister Sunner and her wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

What a wonderful conversation we had with Minister Jessie Sunner, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Surrey-Newton and the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, whom we first had the pleasure of meeting in person at the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reforms this summer. We discussed the affordability crisis, mental health, and the K to 12 Anti-Racism Action Plan before shifting to post secondary issues. We addressed the province’s commitment to making education more accessible and affordable through programs such as the B.C. Access Grants and StudentAid BC, and we also explored how curriculum change can better prepare students with the skills needed for the future as AI and automation advance at an unprecedented pace. Lastly, we ended our conversation by discussing how to strengthen youth engagement in democracy. Stay until the end to hear Minister Sunner’s recommendations for must-visit destinations in Surrey!

Special thanks to Minister Sunner and her wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

Huge thank you to Ms. Eliot and Ms. Bell for inviting us on CBC’s BC Today. From listening every morning on our drive to school to now speaking on the show, we are beyond honoured. Thank you to everyone who called in, regardless of your stance on Vote16, for helping advance the conversation on youth representation and civic engagement. Only through open dialogue can we begin building a more inclusive democracy. It is beyond inspiring to see youth, adults, and communities coming together as the movement for Vote16 BC continues to grow and gain momentum!

Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsYTD5TJ_QU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoEo47CvhPs

Huge thank you to Ms. Eliot and Ms. Bell for inviting us on CBC’s BC Today. From listening every morning on our drive to school to now speaking on the show, we are beyond honoured. Thank you to everyone who called in, regardless of your stance on Vote16, for helping advance the conversation on youth representation and civic engagement. Only through open dialogue can we begin building a more inclusive democracy. It is beyond inspiring to see youth, adults, and communities coming together as the movement for Vote16 BC continues to grow and gain momentum!

Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsYTD5TJ_QU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoEo47CvhPs

Huge thank you to Ms. Zavarise and CTV News for the thoughtful conversation and all the extra effort that went into sharing this story. While today’s Vancouver City Council vote ended 3–5, it was incredibly inspiring to see how many people showed up, spoke out, and stood behind the idea that youth deserve a voice in democracy. The momentum for #Vote16BC is only growing!

If you have a moment, please do check it out:
https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/video/2025/10/29/vancouver-considers-lowering-voting-age/

Huge thank you to Ms. Zavarise and CTV News for the thoughtful conversation and all the extra effort that went into sharing this story. While today’s Vancouver City Council vote ended 3–5, it was incredibly inspiring to see how many people showed up, spoke out, and stood behind the idea that youth deserve a voice in democracy. The momentum for #Vote16BC is only growing!

If you have a moment, please do check it out:
https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/video/2025/10/29/vancouver-considers-lowering-voting-age/

We had the privilege of speaking with Professor Eric Patashnik, Julis-Rabinowitz Professor of Public Policy and Professor of Political Science at Brown University, described by The New York Times as a leading scholar on why policies succeed or fail. Our conversation explored his work “Countermobilization: Policy Feedback and Backlash in a Polarized Age,” examining how policymakers navigate backlash strategies, the evolution of backlash from a consequence of reform to a weapon in partisan politics, and how it simultaneously functions as a form of policy feedback. We also delved into one of the most interesting political science works out there, “Unhealthy Politics: The Battle over Evidence-Based Medicine.” We discussed how limited political incentives and slow adoption rates within medical society hinder reform, and what solutions might drive effective progress. To conclude, we examined the structural factors that enable policies to endure by satisfying diverse stakeholders, fostering reconfiguration through new coalitions, interest groups, and sustained investment, and how social media can now shape or undermine this process. To wrap things up, we talked about the new era of tennis and who Professor Patashnik predicts will have the upper hand in the Sinner–Alcaraz rivalry! Check it out!

We had the privilege of speaking with Professor Eric Patashnik, Julis-Rabinowitz Professor of Public Policy and Professor of Political Science at Brown University, described by The New York Times as a leading scholar on why policies succeed or fail. Our conversation explored his work “Countermobilization: Policy Feedback and Backlash in a Polarized Age,” examining how policymakers navigate backlash strategies, the evolution of backlash from a consequence of reform to a weapon in partisan politics, and how it simultaneously functions as a form of policy feedback. We also delved into one of the most interesting political science works out there, “Unhealthy Politics: The Battle over Evidence-Based Medicine.” We discussed how limited political incentives and slow adoption rates within medical society hinder reform, and what solutions might drive effective progress. To conclude, we examined the structural factors that enable policies to endure by satisfying diverse stakeholders, fostering reconfiguration through new coalitions, interest groups, and sustained investment, and how social media can now shape or undermine this process. To wrap things up, we talked about the new era of tennis and who Professor Patashnik predicts will have the upper hand in the Sinner–Alcaraz rivalry! Check it out!

What an insightful conversation we had with Professor Ian Shapiro, Sterling Professor of Political Science at Yale University. Even before our episode, we had long been his students through the Devane lectures, so it was our immense privilege to speak with him! We began with his book “Politics Against Domination,” discussing the idea that domination is the central problem politics must confront, then moved to exploring democracy as a conditioning good and how this understanding informs both the protection and promotion of democracy, as well as the lessons drawn from its successes and failures abroad. Then we turned to his acclaimed work “The Wolf at the Door: The Menace of Economic Insecurity and How to Fight It,” exploring ideas such as the role of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in reducing political insecurity and creating a race-to-the-top effect, the potential of a bottom up expansion in healthcare starting with a public Medicare option for younger adults, and the importance of building strong coalitions. We then turned to the topic of elections, discussing how polarization often arises from structural factors like safe seats and ideologically extreme primaries that distort representation. Finally, we explored voting reforms to better include marginalized communities and how political parties can reconnect with voters in an era where political branding often overshadows party platforms. In the end, we had the chance to learn what still surprises Professor Shapiro, even after his long and distinguished teaching career. Check it out!

What an insightful conversation we had with Professor Ian Shapiro, Sterling Professor of Political Science at Yale University. Even before our episode, we had long been his students through the Devane lectures, so it was our immense privilege to speak with him! We began with his book “Politics Against Domination,” discussing the idea that domination is the central problem politics must confront, then moved to exploring democracy as a conditioning good and how this understanding informs both the protection and promotion of democracy, as well as the lessons drawn from its successes and failures abroad. Then we turned to his acclaimed work “The Wolf at the Door: The Menace of Economic Insecurity and How to Fight It,” exploring ideas such as the role of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in reducing political insecurity and creating a race-to-the-top effect, the potential of a bottom up expansion in healthcare starting with a public Medicare option for younger adults, and the importance of building strong coalitions. We then turned to the topic of elections, discussing how polarization often arises from structural factors like safe seats and ideologically extreme primaries that distort representation. Finally, we explored voting reforms to better include marginalized communities and how political parties can reconnect with voters in an era where political branding often overshadows party platforms. In the end, we had the chance to learn what still surprises Professor Shapiro, even after his long and distinguished teaching career. Check it out!

Huge thank you to The Globe and Mail and Ms. Anderssen for taking so much time out of her day to speak with us numerous times and for all her insightful questions. Special shoutout to Mr. Cole for the wonderful photos. We’re so grateful to be a part of this incredible article. This piece explores the happiness gap facing younger generations: our worries, hopes, and what it means to build meaning in an uncertain world. It also shares how our advocacy work has shaped our happiness as well as our reflections on finding purpose and joy beyond politics.

If you have a moment, please do check it out: www.theglobeandmail.com/life/social-trends/article-canadian-youth-happiness-gallup-world-poll

Huge thank you to The Globe and Mail and Ms. Anderssen for taking so much time out of her day to speak with us numerous times and for all her insightful questions. Special shoutout to Mr. Cole for the wonderful photos. We’re so grateful to be a part of this incredible article. This piece explores the happiness gap facing younger generations: our worries, hopes, and what it means to build meaning in an uncertain world. It also shares how our advocacy work has shaped our happiness as well as our reflections on finding purpose and joy beyond politics.

If you have a moment, please do check it out: www.theglobeandmail.com/life/social-trends/article-canadian-youth-happiness-gallup-world-poll

We had the ultimate privilege of speaking with Professor Donald Green, Burgess Professor of Political Science at Columbia University, and widely considered the father of randomized field experiments in political science. His work has been the backbone for so much of our campaign work, so it was surreal speaking to him directly! Our conversation spanned a wide range of topics: from the structural shift in campaigns from persuasion to mobilization, to strategies for reducing polarization, alongside the paradox of scaling to more voters while still preserving quality and personal warmth. We also had the chance to discuss Get Out the Vote, an area where Professor Green is the leading expert, exploring mobilization tactics with a special focus on youth, before turning to randomized field experiments, their history, and their current place within the discipline of political science. To top it off, we talked about Octi, a renowned board game Professor Green created! We’ve actually just challenged him to a match, so fingers crossed we will at least make it a close game! Check it out!

We had the ultimate privilege of speaking with Professor Donald Green, Burgess Professor of Political Science at Columbia University, and widely considered the father of randomized field experiments in political science. His work has been the backbone for so much of our campaign work, so it was surreal speaking to him directly! Our conversation spanned a wide range of topics: from the structural shift in campaigns from persuasion to mobilization, to strategies for reducing polarization, alongside the paradox of scaling to more voters while still preserving quality and personal warmth. We also had the chance to discuss Get Out the Vote, an area where Professor Green is the leading expert, exploring mobilization tactics with a special focus on youth, before turning to randomized field experiments, their history, and their current place within the discipline of political science. To top it off, we talked about Octi, a renowned board game Professor Green created! We’ve actually just challenged him to a match, so fingers crossed we will at least make it a close game! Check it out!

We had the privilege of speaking with MLA George Anderson, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Nanaimo–Lantzville and Parliamentary Secretary for Transit. Our conversation covered his leadership in environmental and transit policy, from Nanaimo’s first Transportation Master Plan to his vision for a resilient port strategy that strengthens BC’s economy. We also explored his trailblazing role as one of only four Black MLAs in the province's history and his remarkable path as a young leader in government, beginning with his election to Nanaimo City Council at just 20 and continuing to the legislature today. Stay tuned until the end to hear which of the five instruments he has mastered he would choose to play for the rest of his life!

A massive thank you to MLA Anderson and his phenomenal team for this incredible opportunity!

We had the privilege of speaking with MLA George Anderson, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Nanaimo–Lantzville and Parliamentary Secretary for Transit. Our conversation covered his leadership in environmental and transit policy, from Nanaimo’s first Transportation Master Plan to his vision for a resilient port strategy that strengthens BC’s economy. We also explored his trailblazing role as one of only four Black MLAs in the province's history and his remarkable path as a young leader in government, beginning with his election to Nanaimo City Council at just 20 and continuing to the legislature today. Stay tuned until the end to hear which of the five instruments he has mastered he would choose to play for the rest of his life!

A massive thank you to MLA Anderson and his phenomenal team for this incredible opportunity!

A big thank you to Mr. Caddell for taking the time to sit down with us. As Vancouverites, it was a real pleasure to be featured in the Georgia Straight. The piece shares our voting story, the origins of TwinTalk Politics, the challenges of age-based bias, and our hopes for the future of Vote16. We’d be so grateful if you gave it a read, or picked up a copy if you pass by!

Or check it out online: https://www.straight.com/city-culture/bc-twins-jerry-and-jason-song-fight-to-lower-voting-age

A big thank you to Mr. Caddell for taking the time to sit down with us. As Vancouverites, it was a real pleasure to be featured in the Georgia Straight. The piece shares our voting story, the origins of TwinTalk Politics, the challenges of age-based bias, and our hopes for the future of Vote16. We’d be so grateful if you gave it a read, or picked up a copy if you pass by!

Or check it out online: https://www.straight.com/city-culture/bc-twins-jerry-and-jason-song-fight-to-lower-voting-age

We had the privilege of an incredible conversation with MP Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament for Saanich–Gulf Islands and Leader of the Federal Green Party. Our discussion spanned a wide range of topics, including the progress Bill C-226 has made in dismantling environmental racism to her thoughts on the recent passing of C-5 and how Parliament should balance efficiency with accountability. Beyond environmental issues, we explored the Green Party’s broader priorities, including Motion M-11 on housing and her vision for a strategy that defines affordability by individual income rather than market rent, alongside her continued support for Vote16 and Bill S-222. To wrap up, MP May recounts her craziest commuting story, reaffirming her commitment to staying environmentally friendly even in the most unpredictable circumstances!

Special thanks to MP May and her wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

We had the privilege of an incredible conversation with MP Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament for Saanich–Gulf Islands and Leader of the Federal Green Party. Our discussion spanned a wide range of topics, including the progress Bill C-226 has made in dismantling environmental racism to her thoughts on the recent passing of C-5 and how Parliament should balance efficiency with accountability. Beyond environmental issues, we explored the Green Party’s broader priorities, including Motion M-11 on housing and her vision for a strategy that defines affordability by individual income rather than market rent, alongside her continued support for Vote16 and Bill S-222. To wrap up, MP May recounts her craziest commuting story, reaffirming her commitment to staying environmentally friendly even in the most unpredictable circumstances!

Special thanks to MP May and her wonderful team for this amazing opportunity!

Thank you so much to The Tyee and Katie Hyslop for taking the time to speak with us and for writing such an insightful and comprehensive article.

The article traces our full journey in youth advocacy—from our beginnings to the present and toward what lies ahead for Vote16. Alongside our story, you’ll find the history of the movement, responses to common critiques, and the voices of Vote16 champions from MPs to MLAs across party lines.

If you have a moment, please do check it out:
https://thetyee.ca/News/2025/07/28/BC-Twins-Want-Lower-Voting-Age/

Thank you so much to The Tyee and Katie Hyslop for taking the time to speak with us and for writing such an insightful and comprehensive article.

The article traces our full journey in youth advocacy—from our beginnings to the present and toward what lies ahead for Vote16. Alongside our story, you’ll find the history of the movement, responses to common critiques, and the voices of Vote16 champions from MPs to MLAs across party lines.

If you have a moment, please do check it out:
https://thetyee.ca/News/2025/07/28/BC-Twins-Want-Lower-Voting-Age/

We had the immense privilege of presenting to the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform at the Legislative Assembly of BC in Victoria, recommending the extension of voting rights to 16 and 17 year olds in local council, school trustee, and provincial elections.

Special thanks to the B.C. provincial government for actively creating space to hear constituents’ recommendations on our electoral system, and to the incredible MLAs for their thoughtful engagement. It was incredibly inspiring to see Vote16 emerge as such a prominent and passionately discussed topic across all ages!

Watch our full presentation (2:14:51–2:50:45):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX4Len388xY

Read the full transcript:
https://www.leg.bc.ca/hansard-content/Committees/43rd1st/dem/20250716am-DemElecReform-Victoria-Blues.htm

We had the immense privilege of presenting to the Special Committee on Democratic and Electoral Reform at the Legislative Assembly of BC in Victoria, recommending the extension of voting rights to 16 and 17 year olds in local council, school trustee, and provincial elections.

Special thanks to the B.C. provincial government for actively creating space to hear constituents’ recommendations on our electoral system, and to the incredible MLAs for their thoughtful engagement. It was incredibly inspiring to see Vote16 emerge as such a prominent and passionately discussed topic across all ages!

Watch our full presentation (2:14:51–2:50:45):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX4Len388xY

Read the full transcript:
https://www.leg.bc.ca/hansard-content/Committees/43rd1st/dem/20250716am-DemElecReform-Victoria-Blues.htm

A heartfelt thank you to CTV News and Mr. MacMahon for taking the time to speak with us following the UK’s historic decision to extend the voting age to 16. We’re immensely grateful not only for the opportunity to share our perspective but also for CTV News’ commitment to uplifting youth voices and treating our generation’s concerns with the seriousness they deserve.

Watch the segment and read the article here:
www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/article/should-canada-follow-uks-lead-and-lower-voting-age-to-16/

A heartfelt thank you to CTV News and Mr. MacMahon for taking the time to speak with us following the UK’s historic decision to extend the voting age to 16. We’re immensely grateful not only for the opportunity to share our perspective but also for CTV News’ commitment to uplifting youth voices and treating our generation’s concerns with the seriousness they deserve.

Watch the segment and read the article here:
www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/article/should-canada-follow-uks-lead-and-lower-voting-age-to-16/

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