We are deeply committed to uplifting and empowering youth aged 15-30 through a community-driven initiative. Our multifaceted approach integrates training, education, talent nurturing, peer networking, and mentoring to provide a robust foundation for personal and collective growth.
We aim to equip young individuals with the skills and support they need to navigate challenges and embrace opportunities on their journey to realizing their full potential.
Programs
At YSS Canada, we take a holistic, youth-centered approach to empowerment. Our programs are designed to support and empower youth aged 15-30 in building the skills, confidence, and community they need to thrive in life, school, and the workforce.
Through core initiatives like the TECH Training Program and the Youth Employment Readiness Mentoring Program, we focus on more than just career development. We support the whole person, integrating key areas such as Technology, Career Planning, Financial Literacy, Mental Health, Life Skills Development, and Diversity and Inclusion into everything we do.
T.E.C.H - Technology Empowerment Community Hub
Building black youth's capacity is our primary goal to respond to our mission to empower youth on their journey to reaching their full potential. One of our capacity-building initiatives is TECH Training Program which is an initiative designed to break barriers and empower Black youth with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the Tech industry and beyond. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, participants gain real-world experience, preparing them for the future of work in technology and beyond.
Technology
We are currently accepting youth 15-30 years to join our TECH Training Cohort September 2025
Youth Employment Readiness Mentoring Program
At YSS Canada, we believe mentorship is a powerful tool to unlock a young person’s potential. Our Youth Employment Readiness Mentoring Program connects youth aged 15-30 with trained volunteer Career Mentors who offer guidance, support, and coaching to navigate education, employment, and personal development.
Through personalized mentorship, youth build confidence, gain real-world insights, and develop essential skills; from setting career goals to resume building, interview prep, and financial literacy. Whether you're exploring your future or taking your next step, this program helps you build a solid foundation for success.
We're always welcoming new Career Mentor Volunteers to join us in this transformative journey. Mentors receive training, resources, and ongoing support to help youth thrive and feel empowered in their career paths.
We are currently accepting youth 15-30 to join our Mentorship Program, and volunteers passionate about guiding the next generation.
Mentorship
At YSS Canada, we take a holistic approach to youth development. Every program we offer incorporates key areas of growth and support:
Overall Program Goals
Preparation for life and work
Youth gain practical tools in communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Essential building blocks for success in school, at work, and in everyday life. Our comprehensive approach goes beyond the basics. By fostering confidence, adaptability, and self-awareness, we’re investing in the next generation. Preparing youth not only to face life’s challenges, but to lead, grow, and thrive.
Life Skills Development
Guiding futures with purpose
We support youth in discovering their strengths, interests, and potential career paths through mentorship, workshops, and hands-on experiences. More than just exploring options, our programs foster self-discovery, build confidence, and help create personalized action plans. With a focus on informed decision-making and future planning, we empower youth to step into their careers with purpose and clarity.
Career Exploration
Financial Literacy
Building financial confidence and stability
Youth gain practical skills in budgeting, saving, and financial planning, tools that reduce stress and build independence. Our programs also address how financial instability can lead to risk factors like gang involvement, and offer real-world solutions. By promoting responsible money management and future planning, we equip youth to break cycles of economic hardship and make empowered choices.
Fostering empathy and cultural understanding
We celebrate cultural diversity and encourage open-mindedness through education, dialogue, and experiential learning. Youth are invited to challenge bias, embrace different perspectives, and create more inclusive communities. Our programs go beyond acknowledgement; they cultivate fairness, empathy, and a deep sense of belonging in an increasingly diverse world.
Diversity and Inclusion
Reconciliation
Mental Health
Honouring histories and healing through understanding
We acknowledge the land and the histories of Indigenous Peoples and offer trauma-informed, inclusive programs rooted in reconciliation. Our approach supports both Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth in building resilience, understanding, and healing. By recognizing past and ongoing impacts, we create space for culturally safe learning, growth, and relationship-building. We believe in the transformative power of healing and resilience, and we are dedicated to supporting individuals on their path to a positive and empowered future.
Culturally responsive support for thriving youth
Mental wellness is at the heart of everything we do. We recognize that mental health is shaped not just by individual challenges, but also by the environments and circumstances youth live in. Our programs offer safe, stigma-free spaces for open dialogue, proactive support, and culturally responsive tools. By addressing the root causes of stress; including systemic barriers and social pressures. We help youth build emotional resilience and strengthen their overall well-being.
At YSS Canada, we believe that youth should be at the center of youth programming. That’s why we focus on inclusive, flexible, and community-based delivery methods:
Program Implementation
Youth for Youth Based Initiative
We believe that youth have the potential to make an impact in our community!.
We believe in a Youth-for-Youth approach, where youth are not only supported but also encouraged to give back. After completing a program, participants are invited to join our Youth Alumni Club and continue their journey through volunteer opportunities, peer mentorship, and community engagement.
These opportunities help graduate youth practice their skills most importantly by acquiring new skills and experiences through various trainings and exposures, that enhance their personal and professional development.
Program Delivery: In the Community & Online
At YSS Canada, we’re committed to making our programs accessible, inclusive, and youth-led. That’s why we offer a flexible mix of virtual and in-person programming, designed to meet youth where they are. Whether that’s at home, in school, or in the community.
How We Deliver Our Programs:
Virtual Programs: Accessible online workshops, mentorship, and skills-building sessions designed for flexibility and participation from anywhere.
In-Person Programs: Weekly one-hour sessions delivered in schools, churches, and youth centers in Ottawa, in collaboration with families and local organizations.
Community Partnerships: We work closely with educators, parents, and local leaders to ensure youth receive wraparound support in safe and welcoming environments.
Hands-On Learning: All of our programs blend practical skill-building with personal development, ensuring youth gain real-world experience, not just information.
Together, we’re creating a community where youth feel empowered, connected, and ready to lead.
We rely on community members, volunteers, and donors to make our work possible. Whether you're a parent, educator, funder, or future mentor. You can help create brighter futures for youth in Ottawa.