Speak with purpose
Organize ideas, present a clear position and answer questions with composure.
FCLC Youth Debate Program
Learning democracy by doing democracy
TK Debate is a youth civic leadership and debate competition for Ontario students ages 10-17, combining public speaking, research, respectful disagreement, teamwork and practical democratic participation.
Organised by Future Civic Leaders Canada (FCLC) · Delivered by TK Debate
01
A competition with a civic purpose
Students learn to form a position, test it against evidence, respond under pressure and work with others across differences. The aim is not simply to win a speech, but to develop the judgment and confidence needed for thoughtful public life.
The program is educational and strictly non-partisan. Participation by a public institution, elected official or civic leader is for learning purposes and does not imply endorsement of FCLC, TK Debate or any participant.
Research with care
Assess sources, weigh evidence and build arguments that can withstand challenge.
Debate with respect
Listen closely, disagree constructively and respond to the strongest opposing case.
Lead with others
Negotiate, share responsibility and contribute to a team under real time pressure.
02
The Ontario pathway
City & Online Qualifiers
An accessible first stage through selected City Hall locations and online participation for students farther away.
Ontario Semi-Final
Training and competitive practice that deepen research, live debate, digital civic communication and professional conduct.
Ottawa Final
A multi-day civic leadership academy and parliamentary championship focused on policy, persuasion, teamwork and leadership.
Beyond the competition
Eligible participants can continue through future learning opportunities, recognition and returning-finalist pathways.
03
Clear roles and responsibilities
Organised by FCLC
FCLC provides the non-partisan civic education mandate, public-interest oversight and the framework for approved awards, scholarships and supported access.
Delivered by TK Debate
TK Debate is responsible for program delivery, competition operations, participant communications and the registration experience.
Registration & participant services
Interest registration and future enrolment are completed on the TK Debate website, where families receive program and application updates.
Brand & intellectual property
TK Debate retains its brand, curriculum, competition systems, registration platform and program-delivery intellectual property.
04
Planning and venue notice
Program dates, capacity, fees and venue details will be confirmed before enrolment. City Hall, legislative and parliamentary-style settings are program targets only until written approvals and bookings are complete.
Register your interest with TK Debate
Continue to the TK Debate website for the current program overview and interest registration form.