Item - 2021.EC26.7

The Economic and Community Development Committee recommends that:

1.  City Council endorse the enhanced Diversity Youth Fellowship Program for 2022-2024 supported by Urban Alliance on Race Relations, Social Development, Finance and Administration and the City Council budget.

2.  City Council request Social Development, Finance and Administration and the City Clerk's Office to enter into a contract with Urban Alliance on Race Relations to co-fund and administer the Diverse Youth Fellowship Program based on the approved budget.

3.  City Council request the Executive Director, Social Development, Finance and Administration and the City Clerk's Office to work in collaboration with Urban Alliance on Race Relations to report back on the outcomes of the Diverse Youth Fellowship Program to the Economic and Community Development Committee in 2024.

The following report outlines the enhanced workforce development model for the Diverse Youth Fellowship and the costs associated with the implementation of the program from 2022-2024.

The Diverse Youth Fellowship is a leadership program that provides youth from neighbourhood improvement areas across Toronto who are experiencing systemic barriers and discrimination with paid employment and valuable opportunities for career development at the City of Toronto. The program places 30 highly motivated youth from diverse backgrounds in Council Member Offices for 12 weeks. During their placements, Youth Fellows work directly with elected officials and staff on advocacy, case work, policy, research, administrative support, communications and event planning. The Diverse Youth Fellowship program provides a unique space for youth who experience multiple systemic barriers to equitably participate in civic engagement and workforce development opportunities.

The Diverse Youth Fellowship consolidates the pre-existing Black, Muslim, Tamil, Filipino and Protégée Fellowships under one umbrella to improve planning, coordination and integration of supports. The consolidation of these programs also incorporates an enhanced workforce development model to support Youth Fellows with their professional development and builds effective pathways to future quality employment.