VICTORIA, B.C. — Five projects that celebrate and empower youth of African descent in Victoria have each been awarded $5,000.
“Our whole community benefits when young people can shape the future of our city,” said Mayor-elect Marianne Alto. “The projects supported through IDPAD funding will help uplift youth of African descent and contribute to a more inclusive and thriving Victoria.”
The IDPAD Youth Grant is a community-led grant program, created, supported and overseen by the City’s IDPAD Advisory Committee. They selected these five projects for funding this year:
- A mentorship and leadership program that helps build confidence in public speaking, critical thinking and community leadership through discussions, debates and mentorship opportunities.
- A skilled trades program that introduces hands-on career exploration, mentorship and leadership development while building pathways to employment.
- A fashion, arts and digital storytelling showcase that provides opportunities for creative expression, mentorship and skills development in the arts.
- A scholarship and career exploration initiative that supports pursuing training and careers in birth work and culturally responsive care.
- A bilingual Black History Month project featuring exhibits and cultural programming that celebrates the contributions of Black communities and leaders.
“The IDPAD youth grant offers an opportunity to young kids of African descent that they simply cannot find anywhere else on Vancouver Island. This year, I was pleased to see so many applications, serving as a clear indication of the need for this work,” said Caleb Isaac, youth member of Victoria's IDPAD Advisory Committee. “With the support of Victoria’s mayor and council, we have been able to support new and continuing programs that empower the kids of our community. I’m looking forward to supporting the City in further championing this initiative.”
For more information, visit victoria.ca/IDPAD.