Rising Suns Program

Program Details

The Rising Sun’s Mentor Program is specifically for Black males ages 8 to 29. The program is hybrid, providing both virtual and in-person mentorship for Black boys and young men living in Canada. The program ensures that every Black boy and young man living in Canada who needs a mentor can access one. Using strategic intentionality, the pairing of mentees and mentors focuses on lived experiences and builds a sense of belonging. The program supports the whole development of Black boys and young men by focusing on identity, culture, education, and wellbeing, ensuring representation, relatability, and culturally grounded support. Through the program, Black boys who connect with make role models and mentors develop a positive self-image, affirm their cultural identity, and counter negative stereotypes. The Rising Sun's Mentorship Program builds pride in the mentees and where they come from. The program provides a safe space for expression among Black boys, young men, and their mentors. The program provides mentees with exposure to different career paths, including the Trades and STEM/STEAM. Mentees in the program have the opportunity to take on a variety of leadership roles, responsibilities, and resilience in real-life contexts. Within the Rising Sun's Program, Black boys and young men grow confident in who they are, and gain a better understanding on their social location, and learn how to serve their local and global communities as confident leaders. 

 Mentors and mentees will attend approximately two orientation sessions before the start of the Rising Sun Mentorship program. All mentors must obtain a vulnerable criminal reference check prior to mentoring. The program will consist of one-to-one mentoring, peer-mentorship, and group mentoring with other mentors/mentees, including community outings.