OFAH NXT-GEN
The OFAH NXT-GEN program provides younger anglers and hunters a volunteer opportunity to provide direct advice to the OFAH and be spokespersons and influencers in their communities. NXT-GEN Ambassadors gain valuable experience, connections, and insights into fishing and hunting and other conservation management topics.
How you apply?
Anyone between the ages of 18-29 (born between June 1, 1994 and June 1, 2006) is invited to apply to be an OFAH NXT-GEN Ambassador by submitting an online application, which you can find below, by midnight on June 14, 2024. Applications will be reviewed by an OFAH NXT-GEN committee and successful candidates will be notified soon after.
What type of experience and connections can you expect?
It really depends on you. No two experiences will be the same as the OFAH has a lot to offer. Each Ambassador may be looking for different levels of involvement, experience, and skills development. For current students or recent graduates, these opportunities could help bridge the gap between school and your careers. For other Ambassadors, it might be about getting more involved, giving back, or simply helping the OFAH broaden the perspectives and input that go into important resource management discussions.
These volunteer experiences will provide OFAH NXT-GEN Ambassadors with personal and professional growth through some, or all, of the following:
- Working alongside fellow Ambassadors to help build a strong sense of community and leadership among young people with an interest in conservation, fishing, hunting, and an outdoor lifestyle
- Networking with OFAH Advisory Committee members, OFAH Board of Directors, OFAH staff, and a broad range of external partners
- Observing OFAH Board of Director meetings to gain further insight into the operations and governance of the OFAH
- Participation on OFAH Advisory Committees, including Fisheries, Big Game, Land Use/Access/Trails, and Small Game & Migratory Birds, which will provide you a chance to influence OFAH discussions and positions on important natural resource topics
- Volunteering and representing the Ambassadors at meetings or the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show
- Gaining fieldwork and outreach experience with our programs and staff (Community Hatchery Program, Invading Species Awareness Program, Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Program, Outdoor Education programs)
- Profiling your OFAH experience in Ontario OUT of DOORS Magazine and OFAH communications
- Providing you with a unique experience in policy development and NGO governance that can be used no matter what academic, career, or volunteer experiences you pursue in the future.
How long is the term and expected commitment?
We ask all Ambassadors to participate for at least a one-year term (July 2024 through June 2025). Please expect to participate in at least one virtual meeting (2-3 hours in length) a month in the evenings, and at times you may need to meet more often and engage through e-mail with other Ambassadors, committee members, and staff, including reviewing policy drafts and responses to government proposals.