Integrated Youth Growth-Oriented Program

The Cause

Our idea, the Integrated Youth Growth-Oriented Program (INYOGOP), is a targeted initiative that responds directly to the systemic racial inequalities and educational disparities faced by young Black people in Calgary, Alberta. Developed through extensive community engagement and data exchange, INYOGOP is a transformative program designed to address the pressing needs of Black youth who face barriers in education, career opportunities, mental health, and overall well-being due to their race or socio-economic background.

Our approach is rooted in empowering these young people to overcome racial discrimination, unlock their potential, and build a better future. INYOGOP is committed to delivering comprehensive services such as educational support, career development, mentoring, and mental health counseling to equip Black youth with the tools needed for success. By working alongside these communities, we ensure that our project reflects the specific challenges and aspirations of the youth we aim to uplift.

The goals of INYOGOP are ambitious yet attainable: raising 100 nonpartisan young leaders, addressing mental health challenges, connecting minority youth to career opportunities, and fostering community growth through youth engagement. Our programming is structured to not only address immediate needs but also to foster long-term development and sustainability. We plan to deliver a wide range of workshops covering leadership, financial literacy, health, wellness, and career development, while also offering one-on-one mentoring and counseling to ensure personal growth and academic success.

The outcomes we envision include an 80% decrease in anxiety among participants, a 90% increase in career readiness, and a 75% improvement in academic performance. INYOGOP will also focus on strengthening participants' life skills, increasing their professional connections, and improving their financial literacy. We are confident that this program will contribute significantly to closing the educational and socio-economic gaps experienced by Black youth in Calgary.

Through strong partnerships with organizations like BIPOC Foundation, The Center for Newcomers, and The Immigrant Educational Society, INYOGOP is designed to create a lasting impact, setting a foundation for more equitable opportunities for Black youth in Alberta.

Who Will it Benefit?

The Integrated Youth Growth-Oriented Program (INYOGOP) primarily benefits Black youth in Calgary, Alberta, who face systemic barriers to educational opportunities, mental health support, and career readiness due to racial discrimination, socio-economic challenges, and cultural exclusion. The program targets individuals aged 15 to 25 from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds, providing them with the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to overcome these challenges.

These young people often experience disparities in their ability to access quality education at an affordable rate, leading to significant gaps in academic achievement compared to their non-Black counterparts. Additionally, the lack of culturally sensitive mental health resources contributes to higher rates of stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges among Black youth. Furthermore, limited career opportunities and a lack of mentorship often hinder their ability to secure internships, job placements, and professional development.

INYOGOP is designed to bridge these gaps by providing tailored educational support, career counseling, mentorship, and mental health services. The program will offer individual and group counseling sessions, personal and professional development workshops, and access to life skills training, leadership development, and financial literacy resources. By pairing participants with mentors from similar backgrounds, the program will foster personal growth and provide crucial guidance in navigating academic, career, and life challenges.

In addition to directly benefiting Black youth, the program has a ripple effect on their families, communities, and future generations. By empowering young people with skills, confidence, and access to opportunities, INYOGOP contributes to broader social and economic development in Calgary’s Black community. As these young people rise as leaders, professionals, and contributors to society, they inspire others and challenge the systemic barriers that have long hindered progress.

The program also benefits the broader Calgary community by fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. By addressing educational inequalities, reducing mental health challenges, and increasing career access for Black youth, INYOGOP helps create a stronger, more cohesive community where diversity is celebrated, and opportunities are accessible to all.