Ascending Sisters+

What is Ascending Sisters+?

Ascending Sisters+ is a mentorship program that connects Black girls and Black non-binary students in Grades 7-10 with self-identified Black YRDSB staff.

This program is currently running in select pilot schools. 

The Program

Ascending Sisters+ seeks to empower, affirm and advance the achievement, well-being and sense of belonging of participants through programming that:

  • reinforces their sense of identity

  • builds confidence and self-esteem

  • enhances academic performance 

  • enhances advocacy, communication and leadership skills

  • promotes healing

Group of black females

 

Priorities of the program include:

  • enhancing the development of all students’ socio-cultural consciousness (e.g. affirm identities, histories, lived experiences, ways of knowing and being) to understand structures in society and the many manifestations of anti-Black racism that impede development, growth and progress 

  • amplifying voice and agency to build self-confidence and self-esteem for students to be their best selves and in turn develop leadership, communication, and self-advocacy skills

  • developing knowledge of post-secondary education and potential career pathways in order to allow for the successful navigation of the education system 

  • learning those strategies that support one’s mental health and provide wellness and mental health tools that encourage students to develop daily holistic practices

Programming will include: leadership training, career exploration, guest speakers and connections to affirming community initiatives, and connections to healing and well-being activities.