NextVoice Sarnia launches youth-led newsroom for the next generation of storytellers

Mentors and young writers come together to build a youth-driven newsroom in Sarnia-Lambton focused on local issues and creative expression.

Have you ever wondered what the newspaper would be like if it was written by teenagers? Well, look no further! Here at NextVoice, a collaboration between Mastermind Youth Foundation and the Sarnia Journal, youths are given the chance to express their opinions freely on topics that matter to them. From local events and community issues to broader conversations about the socio-economic state of the planet. In the words of the Mastermind Youth website; “NextVoice Sarnia is a youth‑led newsroom for teens and young adults in Sarnia‑Lambton.”

Writing offers young people a powerful way to engage with their communities, develop their voice, and contribute meaningfully to public conversation. This marks the first official entry from the NextVoice program, with many more stories already in development. To start, we’re highlighting some of the individuals involved, and inviting others to be part of what’s being built!

Meet Nola! 

Nola is a student who has been involved with Mastermind Youth for several years. She first joined through Fright Club and later became more engaged through job experience opportunities offered within the program. Before that, she spent time babysitting during the summer, but her passion has always been rooted in storytelling, writing, and the arts. She has high hopes in the future of this program, and you should too! 

Meet Danni!

Danielle is one of the program’s adult mentors and has been working with Mastermind Youth for the past two years, primarily through the Fright Club program. She also brings over a decade of experience as a community organizer, working with various charities and theatre groups. With a strong passion for creativity and community, Danielle was drawn to NextVoice as a way to help amplify youth perspectives.

Meet Elizabeth!

This is Elizabeth’s first submission with NextVoice, though she has already been involved in other Mastermind Youth initiatives, including Codemasters, where she helps students troubleshoot coding challenges. In late 2025, she published a short novella titled NightFall. She joined NextVoice to continue building her writing experience and explore new creative opportunities.

Meet Robynne!

Robynne is a local journalist with The Sarnia Journal and a registered nurse in Sarnia. She has a strong interest in covering local issues, politics, and community stories. Working alongside Mastermind founder Jacques Villeneuve, she helped bring the vision of NextVoice to life, creating a space where young voices can be heard and developed through real-world journalism experience.

In shorter words, if you are firm in what you believe in, have a passion for writing, or want more experience in creative jobs like journalism, editing, photography, and videography, then NextVoice Sarnia might be for you! Come and join the party by applying through the Mastermind website.