Welcome to the March 2026 issue of the YLL Newsletter!
Announcements
Here is what you may have missed from the past month at YLL Edmonton!
On March 14, YLL hosted the second part of the Foundations of Law event—the Mock Trial! The students who were accepted from the Foundations of Law event participated in a simulation of a real-life trial. Unfortunately, not enough participants showed up, so YLL facilitated a discussion about the law instead of re-enacting a courtroom scene. Even though the event didn’t run the way we expected, students still gained valuable discussion and debate skills.
Next month, on Sunday, April 26, from 12 PM to 5 PM, YLL Edmonton is excited to present our largest event of the year—our annual regional conference! We are thrilled to welcome over 15 student panelists and 10 esteemed lawyers who will share valuable insights and advice on navigating law school and exploring various areas of law. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with our panelists and engage in an interactive, moderated Q&A session. Food and snacks will be provided, and the event is open to junior high, high school, and undergraduate students. Don’t miss out—register now below!
Special ‘Spotlight’ Blog: KELLO Inclusive
KELLO Inclusive is Canada’s only talent agency that exclusively represents individuals who are disabled or neurodiverse. Based in Edmonton, the organization was founded by Katie MacMillan, a firm advocate for diversity and inclusion in media. She was inspired to start the agency after seeing what her young daughter had to go through being a model with a disability. Today, KELLO has worked with large brands such as Lancome, Lego, Lululemon, WestJet, and more. This month, YLL Edmonton had the opportunity to speak with Katie and learn more about KELLO’s mission and their advice to individuals who may also be interested in creating a change.
What specific gaps in the industry inspired the creation of KELLO?
KELLO Inclusive was created to address a clear gap in the industry—where inclusion is often discussed but rarely implemented in a meaningful, professional way. We saw talented individuals being overlooked, not because of ability, but because systems weren’t built with them in mind.
What kind of change have you seen within the communities you serve so far?
We’ve seen a real shift in confidence and visibility. Talent we work with are not only getting opportunities—they’re being recognized for their skill and professionalism. At the same time, clients are starting to rethink what inclusive casting and collaboration can actually look like when it’s done properly.
Why is it vital for young people to engage with equity and inclusion early in their journeys?
Because early exposure shapes how people lead, hire, and build in the future. When inclusion becomes a default mindset—not an afterthought—it leads to stronger teams, better ideas, and more equitable systems long-term.
What are the most common misconceptions industries have when working with neurodiverse or disabled talent?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s complicated or requires major accommodations. In reality, it often comes down to communication, flexibility, and being open to doing things slightly differently. Another misconception is focusing on limitations rather than strengths.
What is your top piece of advice for students wanting to advocate for inclusion in their future careers?
Start by being intentional in small decisions—who you collaborate with, who you amplify, and how you design spaces. Inclusion isn’t a big moment; it’s a series of consistent choices.
Could you share a specific moment or project that truly reflected meaningful, authentic inclusion?
A standout moment was when we booked a disabled actor in a Hallmark film for a role that wasn’t written as disabled. They were cast based purely on their merit as an actor, not to tick a box. That’s what real inclusion looks like: when talent is recognized first, and identity isn’t a limitation but simply part of who they are.
This image features one of KELLO’s clients, who was selected to play in the Hallmark film, “Under the Christmas Sky,” directed by Séan Geraughty.
Lawyer Advice: “Why did you choose law school?”
I came to the idea of going to law school, I think, very late. I just felt like I needed something that was going to be more challenging and give me an opportunity to do something different and to really push myself. Law is a career that equips you with the possibility to really do anything.
Sponsorship Package:
Empower the next generation of young leaders—partner with YLL and make an impact today! 🌟 Your support helps amplify student voices, create opportunities, and shape the leaders of tomorrow. Become a sponsor now!
Sponshorship Package: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oDFuUAf_C7CltJALPWaqUG9LQunXOFeL/view?usp=sharing
Opportunities:
YLL AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
Youth Leaders in Law is an organization based in Edmonton that strives to make the legal field more accessible to young people through increasing accessibility and diversity in the law.
Apply to be part of our Ambassador Program to help spread its messages within your local school community. There is no deadline for applications; instead, they will be evaluated on a rolling basis. This means that early applicants are more likely to secure an Ambassador position with YLL Edmonton. Apply now!
Sponsors: Click the links below to check out our sponsors! Through their support, we can host events, create educational resources, and provide meaningful opportunities for students to engage with law, advocacy, and leadership. We are grateful to our sponsors for investing in youth voices and helping us expand our impact in the community.
