My name is Shiza Hirani, a rising leader in youth advocacy, mentorship, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and a current undergraduate student pursuing bachelor's of business administration, and nonprofit sector leadership and innovation certificate from the University of Regina, Canada.
My project, the Youth MentorNet Café was developed from an in-depth understanding of the struggles and challenges many young people face in my community, especially newcomer and Indigenous youth who often face systemic barriers in their academic journey when trying to build a future for themselves. The common challenges faced by vulnerable youths are navigating complex post-secondary applications, securing financial aid, or simply finding a mentor/role model who believes in their potential and uplifts their spirits. Currently, too many newcomer, racialized, and Indigenous youths in Canada feel lost when it comes to education. The mainstream services being offered to these vulnerable youths are not designed with their cultural needs and lived experiences in mind.
“Youth MentorNet Café believed in my potential, supported me in every step of the way, and helped me grow my confidence. I never thought I’d lead a project before, but now I’m guiding others too!” – First-Generation University Student, Age 19
Through my initiative, the Youth MentorNet Café, I provide culturally sensitive and trauma-informed mentorship where youths can receive financial literacy education, ongoing guidance on career paths, and develop soft skills. I use art to foster inclusivity for diverse youths in the mentorship program. Through Youth MentorNet Café, I provide both in-person and virtual mentorship to youths for accessibility. My initiative is more than just mentorship, it’s about equal representation and ensuring youths see themselves reflected in professions they aspire to be in.
“This platform was more than a mentorship program. It was a safe space to be heard, seen, and supported.” – Newcomer Youth, Age 16
Youth MentorNet Café advances Sustainable Development Goal #4 Quality Education and Goal #10 Reduced Inequalities by providing newcomer and Indigenous youth with culturally relevant mentorship, financial literacy, and educational support they need to be successful in their chosen career path. By offering culturally relevant guidance on admissions, career pathways, and financial planning, the mentorship sessions help to break down systemic barriers to education and employment that often leave newcomer and Indigenous youths behind in mainstream society. The Youth MentorNet Café ensures that all participants have equal opportunities to develop soft skills, accomplish great things in life, and foster an inclusive and sustainable society where every young person can unlock their potential and contribute to long-term sustainable growth.
“Being part of the Youth MentorNet Café gave me the tools to navigate my future with clarity. It has changed my life for the better.” – Youth from Refugee Background, Age 17
The Youth MentorNet Café achieved several significant accomplishments, marking its success in empowering high school students and vulnerable youths. The projects biggest recognition was being recognized as a finalist for the ‘Dream Chaser Change-maker Social Impact Award’ by DCCM Foundation and Enactus Canada on the national level for its effort to empower Indigenous youth through culturally relevant mentorship to address TRC #7.
To date, over 1500 youth participants have been involved in the Youth MentorNet Café programs through 25+ workshops, spanning across Mentorship, Financial Literacy, Grooming, Resume Building, Dress for Success and Soft Skills Development.
Another notable outcome of Youth MentorNet Café was the increase in post-secondary enrolment among students who attended the live mentorship workshops. Youths also developed soft skills, such as communication, leadership, financial literacy, and time management which are crucial in academia, personal, and professional lives. From the one-on-one sessions as well as group sessions, many youths secured voluntary internships, gained real-world experiences, and earned the opportunity to network as youth ambassadors and delegates at the national and international levels.
The program also helped youth build successful LinkedIn profiles and connect with potential employers, which opened doors to future career opportunities for them. These achievements underscore the Youth MentorNet Café’s role in fostering inclusion and lifelong commitment to empower youths with the skills and support they need to reshape their narratives.
About the Joint SDG Fund’s Youth Corner:
The Youth Corner is a platform hosted by the Joint SDG Fund to amplify youth voices, celebrate their impact, and foster meaningful engagement in sustainable development. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official positions of the Joint SDG Fund, the United Nations, or its partners. View the extended version of the website policies here.
