What does democracy mean for young Canadians today, and how can we inspire them to participate meaningfully in shaping the future? In this episode of Generations Ahead, External Director for Wilson College at McMaster University, Sara Wolfe, sits down with Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, Sam Reusch, a non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering young people to engage in Canada’s democracy.

Sam shares her insights on why trust in politicians is at a historic low, how social media and AI are reshaping civic engagement, and the innovative programs her organization uses to connect young people with democratic processes—from dinner table discussions to youth-led initiatives and advocacy campaigns. They also explore the pillars of a strong democracy, the challenges of pluralism in polarized times, and the importance of investing in civil society for future generations.

About Sam Reusch

Sam Reusch is the Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, one of Canada’s largest non-partisan, democracy organizations. Since stepping into the role in 2020, she has led the organization through a period of growth and transformation, expanding its national reach and deepening its impact at the intersection of civic engagement, youth leadership, and democratic innovation.

With nearly a decade of experience in the democracy sector, Sam has been a leading voice on issues of participation, elections, and democratic resilience. She has spearheaded initiatives such as the Better Democracy Roadmap and the Canadian Democracy Endowment, positioning Apathy is Boring at the forefront of efforts to strengthen trust and accountability in institutions and build a democracy that is fit for the 21st century.

Beyond her role at Apathy is Boring, Sam serves as a board member with Volunteer Canada and is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions to civic life in Canada. She regularly contributes to national conversations on democratic reform, youth engagement, and the future of civil society in Canada.

Resources Mentioned / Links List

• wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcasts
• https://www.apathyisboring.com/

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What does it take to spark real change in our communities? How can creative solutions from classrooms to policies to grassroots movements and beyond shape a better future, and what kind of leadership will carry us forward?

Generations Ahead is a podcast exploring the most imaginative approaches shaping the future of Canada and the world. Hosted by Sara Wolfe, External Director of the Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement at McMaster University, the series draws on her career spanning healthcare practices informed by her Indigenous roots to teaching future leaders. Each episode features changemakers not just from academia but from the front lines of real-world work, tackling complex problems and sharing what their solutions could mean for generations to come.

This is not a typical leadership podcast. It is about imagination, connection, and the sparks of possibility that emerge when we face the mess of today with critical hope.

🎙️ Episode One launches soon. Follow now so you don’t miss it.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.