FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Federation of Black Canadians Launches New Youth Employment Skills Program to Empower Black and Marginalized Youth with Skills and Employment Opportunities
December 02, 2024 — Toronto, ON
The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) is proud to announce the launch of its transformative program, The Youth Employment Skills Program, aligning with our pillar of bringing employment development to Black Canadians. The program is designed to equip Black and marginalized youth across Canada with the skills, support, and experience needed to thrive in today’s workforce.
Over the next 3.5 years, this program aims to directly assist 161 youth, Black youth especially, NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth, newcomers, and youth with disabilities, in overcoming barriers to employment through a combination of comprehensive training, mentorship, and quality job opportunities.
“Breaking Barriers, Building Careers”
The program focuses on providing youth with:
- Employment Skills Training: A 9-week program to develop job readiness, technical skills, and soft skills.
- Quality Employment Opportunities: A 6-week placement with meaningful, supportive employers.
- Paid Training and Development: During the 15 week program students will be paid for 30 hours/week of their time
Youth Employment Skills Program Cohort 1 open
We welcome Strive Opp as our first community employment training partner. Their innovative platform combines cutting-edge technology, skill-based programs, and a supportive community and will help you achieve your career goals.
Strive specializes in giving:
- Access to essential resources
- Strategies to reduce education costs
- Guidance for securing admissions to ideal institutions
Apply for free today to be part of our first cohort!
With programming planned to be delivered in Brampton, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver, this initiative underscores FBC’s commitment to ensuring every young Canadian, regardless of barriers, has the tools to succeed.
“We believe in the untapped potential of our Black Canadian youth and newcomers,” says Christopher Thompson, Executive Director of the Federation of Black Canadians. “This program represents an investment not just in individuals but in stronger, more inclusive communities and workplaces.”
Key Program Features
- Tailored support to meet the unique needs of each participant.
- Hands-on training and direct pathways to employment.
- A national focus on empowering underrepresented groups across Canada.
Join Us on This Journey
Applications for the first cohort open soon, with programming set to begin in Ontario. Employers, mentors, and community members are encouraged to partner with FBC to make a lasting impact. Subscribe to our email list to keep up to date with the latest program updates.
For more information, visit https://fbcfcn.ca/youth-employment-skills-program/ or contact programs@fbcfcn.ca.
Call for Community Partners
Employment development across Canada in multiple sectors takes a group effort! We are looking for members of the community to apply to become official employment training partners and employer partners who are committed to creating and equitable and diverse workforce in Canada.
Employment Training Partner
Are you currently running employment training programs in any field? Trades, STEM, marketing etc? We are looking to partner with a wide range of training programs to help create a diverse workforce of Black Canadians. Get funding to help to support their training.
What we offer:
- Capacity support to train Black youth for 9 weeks
- Increased program visibility
- Funding for our participants to complete the program
Employer Partner
Are you currently looking to increase your capacity with some extra support? Get funding for 6 weeks to hire a skilled up Black Canadian or newcomer. There is potential for a 15 week funding period if job training is provided with the hire.
What we offer:
- 6 weeks of a funded, pre-trained black youth
- Showcase your company’s social impact and Diversity and Equity Initiatives (DEI)
- Potential for funding to employee a Black youth for 15 weeks
About the Federation of Black Canadians
The Federation of Black Canadians is a national organization dedicated to advancing the social, economic, and cultural well-being of Black communities across Canada. Through advocacy, education, and community initiatives, FBC strives to create equitable opportunities for all.
For any questions about our programs please contact: yes@fbcfcn.ca
Media Contact:
media@fbcfcn.ca
