Why should you join the Black Youth Visionary Program? 

• Each year that you complete one activity in each of the areas mentioned above, you will be eligible to receive annual recognition on the Student Experience Record. This will further enhance your ability to showcase your achievements during your time at Ontario Tech.

• Explore campus supports and services that make sense for your academic journey.

• Gain access to dedicated experiential learning and work experience opportunities. 

• Become eligible for the Black Youth Visionary Bursary. 

• Meet other Black-identifying students and build your community. 

Black Youth Visionary Program Bursary

The purpose of this bursary is to provide financial support to students who may be facing barriers in attending their studies while at Ontario Tech.  Full-time students will be eligible to receive $1,000 and part-time students will be eligible to receive $500. Recipients will have the funds initially applied directly to any outstanding tuition fees. There are 5 bursaries available in total. 

To be eligible for the bursary, you must meet the following criteria: 

• Demonstrate financial need 

• Self-identify as Black 

• Be enrolled in the Black Youth Visionary Program at Ontario Tech 

• Have a minimum 1.5 GPA 

• Not have received the bursary in a previous semester

Financial Literacy Education

The Black Youth Visionary Program hosts various financial literacy workshops throughout the year, including during Financial Literacy Month in November. These workshops are designed to help students build smart money habits, create a realistic budget and manage their finances with confidence.

Program eligibility

• The Black Youth Visionary Program is open to all active undergraduate and graduate students at Ontario Tech. Students must self-identify as Black during the registration process to be a part of the program.

More Than Grades: Building Skills for Academic Success

As the fall semester quickly approaches, join the Black Youth Visionary Program as we prepare you to jump into the semester feeling confident about your academic studies.

Through interactive activities, you’ll learn and practice key academic skills like goal setting, effective studying, note-taking, and exam preparation. You’ll also explore the academic supports available at Ontario Tech and how to access them.

By the end of the session, you’ll leave with practical strategies and a comprehensive academic skills resource package to help you succeed.

Event Details:

• When: Monday, August 10 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

• Where: Virtual via Google Meet

• Audience: This event is open to all current and incoming Black Ontario Tech students

Register using the Black Youth Visionary Program Summer Events web form.

Black Student Financial Literacy Workshop

Managing your finances is a key part of your success in university. This virtual workshop is designed for current and incoming Black Ontario Tech students to help you feel confident and prepared to take control of your finances as you start or return this fall.

In this interactive session, you’ll explore essential topics such as building credit, creating and managing a budget, and understanding the difference between saving and investing. Through hands-on activities, you’ll have the opportunity to apply what you learn in real-life scenarios, so you can make informed financial decisions.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll walk away with practical tools, strategies, and greater confidence in managing your finances throughout the academic year and beyond.

Event Details:

• When: Wednesday, August 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

• Where: Virtual via Google Meet

• Audience: This event is open to all current and incoming Black Ontario Tech students

Register using the Black Youth Visionary Program Summer Events web form.

Why should I join the Black Youth Visionary Program? 

• The Black Youth Visionary Program is designed to support your success at every stage of university, providing resources like academic support, mentorship, financial assistance and career readiness. It's an opportunity to connect with a community that understands your journey and is dedicated to helping you thrive. 

I do not self-identify as Black, can I still join the program? 

• The program is specifically designed to support incoming and current Black-identifiying individuals. If you do not self-identify as Black, you would not be eligible for this particular program. However, there are other initiatives and resources available at Ontario Tech that cater to a diverse range of students. For more information, please contact aaliyahmae.hinds@ontariotechu.ca. 

I’m an upper year student, can I still join? 

• Absolutely! Upper year students are encouraged to join the program. Our team can assist you with preparing for your final years of study at Ontario Tech.

Do I need to sign up again each semester/year? 

• Once you are a part of the Black Youth Visionary Program, you are officially a part of our community and do not need to sign up every year. Upon graduating from Ontario Tech, you will be given an opportunity to give back to other students who are a part of the Black Youth Visionary Program.

Are there opportunities for community organizations to collaborate with the Black Youth Visionary Program? 

• Yes! If you are part of a community organization interested in collaborating with the Black Youth Visionary Program, please send an email to blackvisionary@ontariotechu.ca.

How can Black professionals support the Black Youth Visionary Program and its students? 

•  As a Black professional, your experience and insight are invaluable to our students, regardless of what stage of your career you're in. There are many ways you can choose to engage with the BYVP, such as attending events, serving as a guest speaker, mentor or panelist. Join our Black Professional Network mailing list to be updated about opportunities for involvement.