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A program has been launched that will aim to support Black youth with social and job training.
“The need and gap remain,” said Ajirioghene Evi, executive director of Kind Minds Family Wellness, a non-profit that offers Afrocentric programs and services to empower the Black community in the region.
“There is a lack of inclusivity and a sense of belonging for Black youth in our region in terms of leadership and entrepreneurial opportunities,” she explained, adding that several Black youths have specifically asked for a program that would allow them to share and overcome systemic challenges.
“They want representation and people with similar and relatable lived experiences as mentors and support as they navigate this realm,” Evi said.
Black Youth Impact: Leadership and Entrepreneurial Program will create a space for Black youth to hone in on their confidence and other skills like social networking, activism, and their sense of belonging to the community.
As part of the program, a free job skills workshop will be offered for Black youth in September. Originally meant for those aged 15 to 21, the invitation has been extended to include newcomers to Canada up to age 25. The discussions will focus on interviewing skills, presentation skills, and public speaking engagement designed for Black and newcomer youth.
However, Evi acknowledges that this gap cannot be addressed by just one organization alone.
“The community needs to step up (for Black youth).”
As a result, Evi is calling on organizations to conduct internal needs assessments to identify what she calls their lack of inclusiveness and the inability to create an atmosphere that would allow Black youth to thrive.
“Do they have Black youth as employees or volunteers and (do they) invite them to step into leadership roles?” she said.
“We need to embrace these youth and create an atmosphere that will allow them to be successful in their leadership journey as well as to become entrepreneurs right here in our region.”
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