Oromo Coalition Against Youth Alienation (OCAYA)

OCAYA's Heal and Connect initiative focuses on encouraging learning and facilitating meaningful integration of Oromo youth in Lawrence Heights, Jane-Finch and Flemingdon Park/Victoria Village by providing a safe and welcoming space for youth to succeed.

Youth take part in three programs:

1) Homework Club - mentoring and tutoring program that takes place at a Lawrence Heights school throughout the school year.

2) Culture and Heritage Camp - day camp that engages youth in culturally-specific activities during the summer months. YCF funds covered transportation, supplies and food costs, enabling more young people to have a camp experience for the first time.

3) Soccer program - provides opportunities for youth in the Oromo community to play soccer, be a part of a team and learn healthy lifestyle habits.

To date, approximately 120 youth have been engaged in the initiative's three program areas. Youth leaders are building employable skills such as leadership, planning and communication skills. Through the tutoring program participants are receiving support in meeting their academic goals and building relationships with older peers. Participants in the Culture and Heritage camp and soccer program are forming relationships with youth from other neighbourhoods, and feel comfortable coming to a space that is inclusive. This culturally-specific program highlights the importance of mentors who share the cultural identity and lived experience of newcomer youth.