Empower You: Break Barriers for Black Youth Employment
Fostering Positive Change and Empowerment within Ottawa’s Black Communities
Welcome to Empower You!
Empower You is a community-driven initiative dedicated to fostering positive change and empowerment within Ottawa’s Black communities. Our mission is to enhance employment opportunities, provide skill development, and build stronger, more resilient communities through workshops and collaborative partnerships.
Our Key Objectives
Enhance Employment Opportunities
We focus on bridging the gap between job seekers and employers by providing training, resources, and support tailored to the needs of Ottawa’s Black communities.
Skill Development and Readiness
Our workshops are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the job market. We offer practical training on various aspects of personal and professional development.
Community Empowerment
Through education and outreach, we aim to strengthen our communities by promoting understanding, unity, and resilience.
Reduce Barriers
We address common barriers to employment, such as discrimination and lack of access to resources, to ensure equitable opportunities for all.
Our Strategies and Workshops
Personal Management Skills
Learn how to effectively manage your time, set achievable goals, and prioritize tasks to enhance both personal and professional growth.
Employment and Employability Skills
Discover what employers are looking for and how to present your skills and experiences effectively. Our sessions include tips on resume writing, interview preparation, and job application strategies.
Job Market Opportunities and Preparation
Stay informed about the latest job market trends and strategies to successfully navigate your job search. We provide guidance on how to leverage opportunities in the current job market.
Antiracism and Justice Education
Understand your rights and responsibilities in the workplace. Our workshops cover topics such as discrimination, antiracism practices, harassment, and workplace safety.
Financial Literacy
Gain essential financial management skills. Learn about budgeting, saving, investing, wealth management and planning for your financial future to achieve long-term stability and success.
International Youth Day 2024 Youth Leadership Award Recipients
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the recipients of the International Youth Day Awards! These exceptional young leaders have demonstrated outstanding contributions and leadership, making a significant impact in their communities and beyond. As we commemorate International Youth Day, we are honored to recognize the achievements of these inspiring individuals.
Olantu Nini
Olantu Nini, a Grade 11 student at Immaculata High School in Ottawa, originally hails from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. As Co-president of the Black Student Alliance, Olantu leads impactful initiatives such as the Black History Month Showcase and a multicultural fashion show, fostering diversity and inclusion within her school community.
Olantu’s passion for youth empowerment is evident in her role as a Volunteer Youth Coordinator for the BBYFR project at SCFS, where she organizes workshops and job fairs that benefit her peers. Her commitment to using media for social change led her to create a podcast at Immaculata, where she engages in storytelling and facilitates meaningful conversations on important issues.
Momen Ali
Momen Ali is a 3rd-year Computer Systems Engineering student at Carleton University who is passionate about making a difference through innovation. Momen has volunteered extensively, participating in Jaku Konbit’s mentorship program and guiding youth in STEM through the Let’s Talk Science initiative.
He also played a vital role in the development of Ridgemont High School’s Black Student Union, promoting inclusivity and engagement. Momen’s commitment to innovation and community service showcases his leadership and drive to empower the next generation of leaders.
Tolorunlogo is a graduate of the University of Ottawa Masters of Education program, as well as a graduate of the third cohort of the Developing Young Leaders of Tomorrow, Today Black Diplomats Academy (BDA Academy) – where he was selected as a delegate to the United Nations Permanent Forum of People of African Descent. He won the Rising Star award at BDA Academy. Tolorunlogo is also an artist who has had his work featured at the Ottawa Art Gallery and in exhibitions in London and Toronto.
Tolorunlogo is an up-and-coming policy analyst looking to dismantle the School-to-Prison pipeline that disproportionally affects youth of African descent. Currently, he is the Director of Future Paths Network and an Executive Board Member of Minds-On, both grassroots non-profit organizations that aim to shape an equitable future for Black and racialized youth. On his ‘off days’, Tolorunlogo enjoys various hobbies, such as diverse cuisines, music, poetry, writing, origami, basketball, and reading.
Moussa Cisse
Moussa Cisse is a dedicated student-athlete who balances his academic, athletic, and extracurricular pursuits with ease. Known for his bold and unapologetic voice, Moussa is a natural leader who consistently strives for excellence. His passion for volunteerism and advocacy is demonstrated through his completion of over 100 volunteer hours in his freshman year and his active involvement in organizing and speaking at Ridgemont High School’s Black History Month assembly.
Over the summer, Moussa volunteered as a videographer for SCFS. As he begins the IB program at ÉSP DesLauriers, Moussa is committed to establishing the school’s first Black Student Union, furthering his dedication to creating a positive and inclusive environment.
Join us in celebrating these outstanding young leaders
Their dedication, passion, and innovative spirit are truly inspiring, and they represent the best of our community’s future. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to see how they will continue to make a difference. Stay connected with us for more updates and stories about their incredible journeys and the positive changes they are bringing to their communities.
Empower You is Recruiting
Join Our Youth Ambassador Program
Are you passionate about making a positive impact in Ottawa’s Black communities? Empower You is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated youth to join our Youth Ambassador Program from January 2023 to January 2025. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of community empowerment and advocacy.
Why Become a Youth Ambassador?
Leadership Opportunities
Develop your leadership skills by working closely with our team and community leaders.
Professional Growth
Gain valuable experience and knowledge that will benefit your personal and professional development.
Youth Empowerment
This project empowers youth through summer camps, workshops, clubs, and community outreach, offering mentorship, STEM training, and activities to support their pursuit of employment opportunities.
Upcoming Event: Youth Employment Workshop
Don’t Miss Out!
Join us for an empowering Youth Workshop designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success in today’s job market. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, our workshops will provide you with the tools you need to succeed.
Recruitment is ongoing!
If you are interested in joining the Youth Ambassador Program or getting involved with our steering committee, we would love to hear from you.
