BYMLP MENTEE RECRUITMENT 2024 - Application Deadline April 5, 2024

The Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program is a unique, made-in-Alberta innovation to socially and economically empower Black youth, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the Canadian society. The goal of the program is to improve economic outcomes, community belonging, and leadership skills, as well as foster a positive cultural identity for Black youths.

The program aims to engage Black youth in innovative research and provide them with internship opportunities to maximize their experiential learning and facilitate their upward mobility.

The primary objectives of the program are to:

1.     Increase leadership skills of Black youth.

2.     Increase post-secondary entry and completion rates for Black youth.

3.     Foster community belonging for Black youth.

4.     Create a positive cultural identity for Black youth.

5.     Increase the ability of Black youth to tackle issues of racism and discrimination.

Each year, we carefully select Black youths in Canada to take part in the BYMLP grade 10 and 11 stream. This program is usually conducted in-person at either the University of Calgary or the University of Alberta. The Youths are paired with 2 mentors who will mentor them in research (Faculty mentor) and profession (Community mentor) throughout the 6 weeks of the program in summer. 

Eligibility

1. Be a Black youth in Canada willing and available to attend the program in-person in Calgary or Edmonton

2. Be available to physically commit 30hrs a week (Monday - Friday) in July 2 to August 9 with exception of statutory holidays. Please note that individuals enrolled in this program will not be able to take summer classes or travel during the period of the program due to its intensive nature.

3. Be willing to learn and open to collaborate with others in a team

4. Must be entering grade 11 or 12

5. You must complete this application form.

6. Must be a Canadian permanent resident or citizen.

Benefits to Youths Participating in the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program:
 

1.     Comprehensive Leadership Skills: Participants will develop a robust set of leadership skills, enhancing their ability to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and inspire positive change in their personal and professional lives.

2.     Academic Advancement: The program actively supports participants in their pursuit of higher education, providing guidance and resources to increase the likelihood of successful entry into post-secondary institutions and completion of academic programs.

3.     Professional Development: Through a structured internship and mentorship from community professionals, participants gain practical experience and insights into their chosen fields, setting the foundation for future career success.

4.     Community Connection: By fostering a sense of community belonging, participants build lasting connections with peers, mentors, and community members, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the program duration.

5.     Cultural Empowerment: The program prioritizes the affirmation and celebration of cultural identity, empowering participants to embrace and showcase their heritage with pride, fostering a positive self-image.

6.     Experiential Learning Opportunities: Engaging in innovative research and practical experiences, participants acquire hands-on skills, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving techniques that go beyond traditional classroom learning.

7.     Advocacy and Social Impact: Equipped with knowledge and skills to address issues of racism and discrimination, participants become advocates for social justice, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.

8.     Mentorship Support: Each participant is paired with two mentors—an academic mentor for research and a community mentor for professional guidance—providing personalized support, advice, and encouragement throughout the program.

9.     Networking Opportunities: Participants gain exclusive access to a diverse network of like-minded peers, professionals, and academics, expanding their social and professional circles for future collaborations and opportunities.

10.  Holistic Growth: The program is designed to nurture not only academic and professional growth but also personal development, instilling confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose in each participant.

 

By participating in the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program, youths can expect a transformative experience that not only prepares them for future academic and career endeavors but also empowers them to positively impact their communities and navigate the challenges of life with resilience and confidence.

 

This form is confidential. The information you provide will help us match/address your interest within the program and assign mentors with similar interests in the program.

Gender
 (please include the city that you live in and your postal code in the address)
Where would you like to attend the BYMLP if your are selected
Current School Grade
Are you willing to attend a 15 to 30 minute interview (via Zoom) with the program team if short-listed?
  1. Describe your personal and educational background
  2. What are your past non-academic involvement? (for example work experiences, school co-curricular activities, club involvement, sports, volunteer activities etc.)
  3. What are your career goals? What would you like to achieve in the next 5 years?
  4. What challenges have you experienced in the past in meeting your education and career goals and how have you overcome them?
  5. Why would you like to attend the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program?
  6. In what ways will attending the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program help you to meet your career goals? 

One file only.
100 MB limit.
Allowed types: gif, jpg, jpeg, png, bmp, eps, tif, pict, psd, txt, rtf, odf, pdf, doc, docx, ppt, pptx, xls, xlsx, xml, mp3.
One file only.
100 MB limit.
Allowed types: gif, jpg, jpeg, png, bmp, eps, tif, pict, psd, txt, rtf, odf, pdf, doc, docx, ppt, pptx, xls, xlsx, xml, mp3.
Do you prefer a mentor in a research/university setting or a mentor in a community setting?

By signing this form, you indicate that this form has been completed by you (a Black high school youth), 

By signing this form, you indicate that you identify as a Black youth and you are in Grade 10 or 11, 

By signing this form, you indicate you are available full time over six weeks from July 2 to August 9, 2024 to actively participate in the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program., 

By signing this form, you indicate you already have your parent’s approval to be a part of this program. 

It is expected that you will attend all the workshops, actively participate in the program and contribute to the evaluation of the project.

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Collection of personal information
Your personal information is collected under the authority of section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If you have any questions about the collection or use of this information, please visit our Access to Information page.