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
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.