(Sylvie Belmond | CLAIR – Simi Valley, CA) — The Simi Valley Youth Council is a group of students who step up to make a difference in their city. Made up of middle and high schoolers, they work directly with the City Council to discuss issues affecting young people, plan community events, and give teens a platform to be heard.
They organize events like the Youth Summit, where students come together for leadership workshops and inspiring talks. Another significant initiative they undertake each year is advocating for teen-related issues—addressing topics such as mental health awareness, social media safety, and developing new programs for students. They’ve presented at City Council meetings, contributed to shaping local policies, and worked on projects like anti-bullying campaigns and voter registration drives for young people.
But it’s not all serious business—the Youth Council also knows how to have fun! Each year, they host events like the Talent Show, where students can showcase their skills in music, dance, comedy, and more. They also organize the Teen Gaming Night, offering opportunities to compete in video games, board games, and trivia with friends. For those who love Halloween, the annual Haunted Maze is always a hit, bringing thrills and chills to the community.
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Simi Valley has a population of approximately 126,356 residents. Of these, about 15.7% are aged 5 to 17, and 8.8% are aged 18 to 24, indicating a substantial youth demographic in the community.
Right now, the Youth Council is looking for new members for the 2025-26 year. If you’re entering 7th-12th grade next fall and live in Simi Valley, this is your chance to get involved. Being on the council is a great way to meet other motivated teens, develop leadership skills, and make a tangible impact in the community.
If you’re interested in joining, you can attend the next Youth Council meeting on April 1 to see what it’s all about. The meeting will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Simi Valley City Hall, 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA 93063. They’ll discuss the latest projects and upcoming events, providing a great opportunity to get a feel for the group before applying.
Meetings are held twice a month, and you can also follow them on Instagram (@simivalleyyouthcouncil) to stay updated on their activities.
For more information and to apply, visit the Simi Valley Youth Council’s official page.
If you want a say in what happens in Simi Valley and a chance to do something meaningful, this is it. Apply now and be part of something bigger!
