One-of-a-kind program connects Ethiopian youth to their communities

Young Diplomats

Young Diplomats is a pilot program to provide Ethiopian youth with positive social space where youth feel welcome and are free to discuss issues that affect their community. The programs address emotional, cultural and identity issues faced by Ethiopian youth living in the Crescent Town neighbourhood. Based on research done by this group for the UN University for Peace, these issues were identified as major barriers for youth from the Ethiopian community. Before Young Diplomats, there were no community groups running Ethiopian-specific programming in the City of Toronto. The space acts as a “community hub” for Ethiopian youth. Role models are developed through a comprehensive mentorship program that will foster success by offering positive alternatives to combat negative influences faced by youth on a daily basis. Over 30 youth attended Young Diplomats’ summer retreat program.