FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 6, 2024
Federation of Black Canadians Launches Career and Community Building Program for Newcomers and NEET Youth in Alberta and Ontario
Toronto, ON – The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) proudly announces the launch of the Newcomers Program (Funded by Catapult Canada – Rideau Hall) designed to address employment and education barriers faced by Black youth, particularly newcomers and NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) individuals, in Alberta and Ontario. In the fall of 2024 FBC conducted a focus group study to understand the needs of our black newcomers and NEETs we have developed this program to address primary needs from our findings.
Building off of our experiences with the Support for Student Learning Program (SSLP), the Newcomers Progam is a two-year initiative engaging over 50 Black youth across two cohorts. By offering targeted group activities, skills development workshops, and personalized wrap-around support, this program addresses the unique challenges faced by refugees, asylum seekers, and new immigrants. It aims to enhance workplace readiness, educational attainment, and community connections, fostering an empowered and inclusive workforce.
Key highlights of the Newcomers Project include:
- Cohorts in Alberta and Ontario through virtual and hybrid workshops.
- A focus on over 50 Black youth, prioritizing newcomers and NEET individuals.
- Skills development workshops, holistic community-building activities, and tailored needs assessments.
- Emphasis on inclusivity, equity, and empowerment for marginalized groups.
Applications Open Now!
Apply now for our free Ontario cohort!
Oasis x FBC Newcomer Mentorship Program partnership
Our first 2 cohorts are set to launch in Ontario in partnership with the Oasis Lending Group. Oasis x FBC Mentorship Program offers a 3 month mentorship experience for Black international student graduates in Ontario as well as any Black Newcomers and NEET youth. Through biweekly mentorship sessions, skills-based workshops, and wrap-around support, this program equips participants with essential tools to navigate the Canadian job market and overcome systemic barriers.
Key program details include:
- Two cohorts running February–April 2025 and June–August 2025.
- Hybrid sessions (90% virtual, 10% in-person).
- Biweekly mentorship meetings covering topics such as personal branding, resume building, and career growth.
- Workshops addressing the Canadian job market, financial literacy, and career pathways in high-growth sectors.
“Our ultimate goal at FBC with this program is to help our newcomers gain a sense of community and break down barriers to enter the workforce; we know there’s enormous untapped potential of people who have not gotten the opportunities, that others have been provided” says Chirstopher Thompson, Executive Director of the Federation of Black Canadians. “By providing practical skills, mentorship, and a strong community network, we’re addressing the systemic barriers that have long held our communities back.”
The Federation of Black Canadians remains committed to fostering growth, inclusivity, and success for Black communities across Canada. This programs mark a significant step forward in creating pathways for success while addressing social isolation and building strong, connected communities.
Ontario Cohort Open Now!
For more information about this program, please visit:
Newcomers and NEET Program
Contact:
programs@fbcfcn.ca
About the Federation of Black Canadians:
The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the interests and well-being of Black communities in Canada through education, advocacy, and community programs.
