Youth
In the fiscal year 2022/2023, our youth team achieved a successful return to on-site programming, overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. Throughout this period, our approach remained firmly grounded in anti-oppressive principles and youth-centred programming, with a particular focus on enhancing access to youth-led mental health resources and advancing anti-racism initiatives.
Among our noteworthy accomplishments was the establishment of a girls' group, highlighting our dedication to gender inclusivity and a safe space for young women. Additionally, we launched a youth-led program to prevent sex trafficking, underscoring our commitment to combat exploitation.
With a partnership with Islamic Relief Canada we also introduced a Black Muslim Outreach Worker to support young people navigating the intersections of anti-Black racism and Islamophobia.
Our approach has been characterized by its adaptability and transitioning between one-on-one support for personalized engagement and culturally relevant, youth-led group programming. This dynamic strategy is deeply rooted in the values and insights we've gathered from our Youth Advisory Council.
Our youth employment services helped over 75 youth and over 30 youth under the age of 16 secure employment and successfully complete employment-based training programs.
As we look ahead to the coming year, our primary focus is on nurturing the capacity of youth as thought leaders within the youth-serving space. We remain dedicated to providing safe, gender and identity-affirming spaces for every individual in our community, ensuring that these spaces uphold the principles of privacy, agency and self-determination for our youth.