Black Youth Leadership Program
The Black Youth Leadership Program is an empowering initiative designed to uplift and engage Black youth in community and civic activities. This program, led by the Council for the Advancement of African Canadians (CAAC) in Alberta, provides valuable resources, training, and financial support through micro-grants to foster community organizing and volunteerism. It aims to nurture leadership skills and promote a culture of ownership and accountability.
Through structured activities and mentorships, participants are encouraged to lead and deliver community-based initiatives, contributing to their personal development and the collective well-being of their communities. Central to the program's ethos is enhancing understanding and practice of democratic engagement, emphasizing equity, diversity, and inclusion to inspire a lasting commitment to community service and innovation among African descent youth.
Over $1 million was awarded to 220 micro-grant recipients since 2024 through the Black Youth Leadership Program (BYLP). Youth, aged 15 to 30 in Edmonton, Calgary, and across Alberta, created impactful community projects supporting leadership, integrity, volunteerism, and accountability within their communities.
Program Guidelines
Successful applicants, aged 15 to 30, will receive up to $5,000 to transform their enriching project ideas from the inception phase to implementation within the community.
Youth projects are supported through the grant in two distinct streams:
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Innovation, Exploration and Creation
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Showcasing Cultural Heritage
Eligibility/Requirments
- Led and created by individuals of African descent aged 15 to 30.
- Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Reside in Alberta, and the project must also take place within the province.
- Apply as an individual or part of a youth group.
- One person must be identified as the primary applicant if applying as a group.
- The primary applicant will handle most communications with Africa Centre and ensure tasks are completed.
- The grant funding will be deposited into the primary applicant’s account if awarded.
- It is up to the group to decide who this person will be before applying.
*Please note, that individuals on work or study permits are not eligible.
Project Timeline
Applications open: Oct. 17, 2025
Application close (extended deadline): Nov. 7, 2025 at 4 p.m. Mountain Time
If you have any questions, please contact bylp@africacentre.ca
How to Apply
Application close on Nov. 7, 2025 at 4 p.m. Mountain Time. (Extended deadline)
If you have any questions, please contact bylp@africacentre.ca
All applicants must complete the submission form according to the specified deadline above and adhere to the grant guidelines below:
If you have any questions, please contact bylp@africacentre.ca
BYLP is funded by Canada Service Corps, a national movement that empowers youth aged 15–30 to gain experience and build important skills while giving back to their community.
Learn more at Canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps.
#CanadaServiceCorps and #LeadersToday
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