Black Youth for Social Innovation Program

“My name is Maobi, I am a recent graduate from the University of Alberta with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Economics, alongside a certificate in Applied Social Science Research. During my summer internship with BYSI, I worked on the Viewpoint Alberta project (under the Common Ground initiative) in which I partook in both quantitative and qualitative research, with a focus on data management and analysis.

My time with BYSI has not only granted me much clarity on my future and goals, but also helped me further understand my passions and enabled me to grow, not just in respect to my skills and professional experience, but also in my beliefs, knowledge and drive to become part of something more. I have built and am continuing to build meaningful connections within and through BYSI which have empowered me career-wise and on a personal level. I am very grateful for my time with BYSI and hope to continue to be able to grow BYSI as well as grow alongside it.”

“My name is Iveren Abeghe, a 4th-year Bachelor of Commerce student. BYSI was transformative for me. Directors recognized strengths in me I hadn’t seen and opened doors I thought were beyond my reach. Through this program, I conducted meaningful research in the Black Entrepreneur community and connected with ordinary individuals doing extraordinary work.

BYSI stands apart because it empowers participants to shape their own experience. There is no hierarchy everyone was treated as equals, with seats at the table where critical decisions were made around us and our voices valued. This program has profoundly helped me refine my leadership skills and broadened my perspective on future life paths. I’m excited about the ongoing impact BYSI is making on the University community and beyond. I believe its legacy will continue to inspire change until programs like this are no longer necessary.”

“I am a Biological Sciences and Computing undergraduate at the University of Alberta. Born in Sokoto, Nigeria, I am passionate about healthcare equity and social innovation. My work focuses on leveraging emerging technology to empower underserved communities in Alberta and Sub-Saharan Africa.

BYSI provided me with a community where I could be my authentic self while navigating and embracing my evolving identity. It became a space to pursue excellence alongside like-minded peers, empowering us to transform challenges into opportunities. Through BYSI, we envisioned a legacy—a tree of inheritance rooted in resilience and purpose, offering shade, stability, and opportunity for future cohorts to thrive and bear their own fruit.”

“I am a political science major at the University of Alberta, and I am driven by a passion for social equity and inspired by the power of innovation. I worked with Black Youth for Social Innovation (BYSI) during the summer. Through this role, I focused on advancing leadership and innovation opportunities for Black youth, combining academic insights with a passion for social equity and transformative change. My summer with Black Youth for Social Innovation was an empowering and inspiring experience that equipped me with the tools and support to amplify my voice and contribute to initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of Black youth, with real-world social impact. Collaborating with a vibrant team, I was able to contribute to initiatives that empower Black youth, and the mentorship I received was pivotal in shaping my understanding of community-driven solutions to systemic challenges.”

“My name is Iiesha, and I am a second-year undergraduate student at the University of Alberta. My major is Political Science with minors in Sociology and International Studies. BYSI has been incredibly impactful, providing me with the opportunity to engage with a community of youth, mentors, and leaders who share a common commitment to fostering a more inclusive and pluralistic society. Through BYSI, I’ve not only gained valuable hands-on research and work experience, but I’ve also benefited immensely from the mentorship and professional development opportunities that have been helpful to my personal and academic growth. These experiences have equipped me with new skills and insights that have strengthened my ability to navigate my studies and future career. BYSI has opened doors for me to explore new interests, deepen my passions, and solidify my commitment to making a meaningful impact.”