ONTARIO NEWS RELEASE: Ontario Investing $16.5 Million to Support Black Youth and Young Professionals

MISSISSAUGA — The Ontario government is investing $16.5 million in the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) for over 65 Black-focused programs delivered by community partners with a proven track record of supporting Black children and families.

“By investing in the Black Youth Action Plan, our government is helping youth and young professionals build the skills, confidence and connections needed in high-demand sectors,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “Investments like these are part of our collective efforts to remove barriers and build thriving communities across Ontario where everyone can contribute, succeed and truly belong.”

Since 2020, more than 20,000 Black youth and young professionals have been helped through the Plan’s Economic Empowerment stream, supporting the next generation of Black leaders in sectors such as health, information technology, film, the arts, automotive and other skilled trades.

Since 2018, community-based and culturally focused BYAP partners have supported better outcomes for over 90,000 Black children, youth and families across Ontario. This year, over 55 organizations will be receiving funding, including:

• Youth Taking Flight (YTF) delivers engaging and impactful STEM educational experiences for young people. YTF inspires creativity, provides specialized skills training and delivers transformative programs that foster positive growth and development in youth.
• The Youth Association for Academics, Athletics and Character Education (YAAACE) works to mitigate systemic inequities in the Jane and Finch community through new programs and services, including academics, athletics, character education, experiential learning, employment and violence prevention and intervention.
• The OYA Black Arts Coalition empowers Black artists and creators in the entertainment industry by enhancing technical skills, offering experiential industry training and providing access to professional development opportunities.

“The Black Youth Action Plan will empower us to continue to take our STEM programs, especially our Aerospace and Aviation training, to new heights,” said Michelle Minott, Program Development & Administration Director of Youth Taking Flight. “By combining hands-on learning, mentorship, and leadership development, we’re opening up exciting career pathways and showing young people, particularly Black youth, that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.”

Funding of these programs is part of Ontario’s ongoing plan to support Black youth and reaffirms the government’s plan to build a stronger, more resilient and competitive economy.