Black Youth Mentorship Program for High School Youth. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You have questions, we have answers! Below you'll find a list of some of the most asked questions. Don't see yours? Email us at bymlp@ucalgary.ca
- Be a Black youth in Canada willing and available to attend the program
- Be available to commit 30 hours a week (Monday - Friday) from July 2 to August 9, 2024 with the 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.
- Be willing to learn and open to collaborate with others in a team.
- Be entering grade 11 or 12 in the fall.
- Submit a completed application form.
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
A: Youths in Grade 10 and 11 are eligible to apply for the mentorship program. The youth will complete the program in summer before starting grade 11 or 12. Generally, youths in the mentorship program are between the ages of 16 and 21. We focus more on applicants being enrolled in high school (grades 10 and 11) than on their age.
A: The Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program seeks to socially and economically empower Black youths to contribute meaningfully to society. Participants in the high school program must identify as Black youths. Black populations in Canada include members of historical Black communities, African immigrants, Caribbean immigrants, African/Black Americans, and Blacks from other countries (such as South America).
We do accept other individuals, especially those from racialized backgrounds, to our undergraduate program.
A: The program is only open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and refugee claimants.
A: Applicants to the program must submit an essay and complete an application form. Two reviewers independently score these materials prior to selection of participants. We are looking for applicants who are motivated and committed to complete the mentorship program and who are most likely to benefit from mentorship. The admissions committee will discuss the applications based on ratings of two reviewers on documents submitted and performance during interviews.
A: We will identify successful candidates for interviews in May 2024. Those who are interviewed will know by late May if they are accepted into the program. Applicants will receive all information by email.
A: The BYMLP for high school youth will run from July 2 to August 9, 2024.
A: Each student will be paired with either a university professor, or another professional from a private company, the public sector, or a community organization. You will also have a graduate or undergraduate student mentor you on the project you will complete for the program.
A: We will assign you to a mentor who works in the area that you listed as your main career interest in your application.
A: You will receive a stipend (depending on funding availability) during the summer program.
A: From July 2 to August 9, 2024, participants will commit to the mentorship program full time. Each week, they will dedicate one day to participating in workshops while the remaining three to four days will be spent in individual mentorship sessions with professionals and/or graduate students. These sessions will offer practical experience. Additionally, participants will collaborate on a group project, further enhancing their skills and knowledge through teamwork.
A: Depending on discussion with program staff, you may be able to access the program online.
A: You should expect to spend 35 hours a week during the summer months (July and August).
A: Yes, you can receive credits if you apply for them. Program staff will support you with information and documents verifying hours worked and evaluation.
A: Grades are not used to determine who is accepted into the program. However, we require your transcript to track your progress. The program is most suitable for students desiring and working towards entering university after high school.
A: No. The high school program is for students currently enrolled in grade 10 or 11. However, if you are a grade 12 student planning to start university, you can apply for the Black Youth Mentorship and Leadership Program for undergraduate students. If this applies to you, please submit your transcript, cover letter, and resume to bymlp@ucalgary.ca
A: The program will require full-time attendance 5 days per week from July 2 to August 9, 2024.
A: Information on last year's program is available here.
A: The program contributed to improving the economic outcomes and community belonging of youths last year. Last year's report is available here.
A: If you have a question that is not listed above, please email it to bymlp@ucalgary.ca