More than ever, making positive changes in today's political climate requires all of the right ingredients. The Black Youth Fellowship (BYF) seeks to place highly motivated, passionate and hard-working young people on a fast track to success. BYF is a professional and leadership development program focusing on building the next generation of Black public servants.
The BYF is an eight-month program, with the inaugural cohort beginning January 2021. Four months of intensive training and mentoring are followed by a 12-week placement in the office of a Member of Council. BYF is building on the success of the Muslim Youth Fellowship, now in its fourth year.
Program Objectives
The Black Youth Fellowship (BYF) aims to build political literacy and a deep understanding of the democratic system in Black youth. The Fellowship will recruit 10-15 young leaders each year, providing them with foundational experiences and skills that will foster an understanding of the political process, while building networks to encourage continued engagement.
Toronto is a global city – the fourth largest city in North America and one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
Yet, out of the 275 staff at Toronto City Hall less than fifteen percent are racialized, and less than half of racialized staff are Black. The Black Youth Fellowship is one way to begin changing the face of City Hall, so that it reflects the reality of Toronto in 2020.
Program Overview
Fellows will work directly with elected officials in a range of different areas including research, advocacy, policy, communications, and case work depending on the needs of the office. Through applied, hands-on experience, the program will provide fellows with the practical tools required to understand and navigate the political process. Fellows will be provided with intensive training prior to their placement as well as supportive mentorship and development training throughout their term. Experience gained will also be supplemented by a longer-term, vision project that fellows will work on collaboratively with the aim of impacting a worthy cause of choice.
TIMELINE
Applications Now Open (Closes midnight December 7th) - https://cutt.ly/black_youth_fellowship
Training - January 2021
Placements - February 2021
TRAINING
A skill-building course delivered through monthly, day-long workshops allows Fellows to build their political and professional skills. Topics can range from advocacy and campaigning to effective networking and building meaningful professional relationships. Attendance at training sessions is mandatory.
PROJECTS
Fellows team up to take on a project of their design that tangibly address outstanding social or education needs within their community. The projects may be event-based, research-focused, or a media initiative. Expert mentors guide the development and execution of the fellows' projects.
PLACEMENTS
Fellows spend 12 weeks working with a member of Toronto City Council. The work varies from office to office, serving Toronto's diverse communities through case work, event planning, communications, and administrative support. Placements are paid full-time employment directly with the City.
MENTORSHIP
Our network of mentors provides each Fellow with one-on-one support throughout the program. Mentors guide personal and professional development, assist in goal setting, and help fellows make meaningful connections that will support them in achieving their goals.