GUELPH, ON, Oct. 7, 2013 /CNW/ - Applications are open for the third IMPACT! Youth Conference for Sustainability Leadership. Canadian university and college students with a passion for sustainability and social change are encouraged to apply to attend and work toward sustainable solutions for their campuses, communities and workplaces. The conference, which will be held May 23 to 26, 2014, at the University of Guelph, will feature a keynote address by recently retired Canadian astronaut, Chris Hadfield. Applications close October 20.

IMPACT! Youth Conference for Sustainability Leadership encourages and supports future sustainability leaders in their common quest to build a healthier, more sustainable future. It will feature speakers from a variety of backgrounds, small group work and networking opportunities with executives working in various industries, all designed to give students the opportunity to create positive change. The conference provides a forum where the voices of the leaders of tomorrow are heard, and encouraged.

"I learned about so many facts and ideas of sustainability that I had never really heard before, but I think that the biggest take-home message for me is that I can make change," said Katie Brady, an International Development student from the University of Guelph who attended the 2011 conference. "I was given the ability to look at an issue, and instead of being overwhelmed, I can now look at it and see solutions... [and] that is the most worthwhile and valuable lesson that I have ever taken home from a conference."

"The conference brings young minds from across the country together to collaborate on vital sustainability solutions," said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of The Co-operators. "These students are the leaders of tomorrow and we're so pleased to be able to support and encourage them in every way possible."

Current university and college students at the time of the conference, between 19 and 25, are eligible to apply. 175 successful applicants will be selected to attend the conference from a variety of Canadian schools and a myriad of academic programs. All their expenses will be covered.

For more information and to apply, please visit http://www.impactyouthsustainability.ca/

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $33 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information, visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE The Co-operators