Empowering Racialized and Immigrant Youth Through Civic Engagement
By Anurika (Rika) Onyenso, Global Shapers Edmonton Hub
Growing up as a first-generation immigrant in Canada, I quickly learned that the path to opportunity often comes with both visible and invisible barriers. From navigating the education system to figuring out how to engage meaningfully in my community, I experienced firsthand how vital it is for youth to have spaces where their voices are not only heard, but valued. Civic engagement can transform communities and the young people who step into these roles by building confidence, skills and a sense of purpose. For racialized and immigrant youth, getting started in civic engagement can feel daunting. Below I’ve compiled a list of tangible ways to step in, grow and contribute meaningfully:
1. Find Spaces Where Your Voice Matters
Look for programs or volunteer opportunities that value your perspective. Organizations like Global Shapers and Canada Confesses provide youth with a platform to share their stories and connect with peers, while Dear Future YEG helps young people understand how to navigate civic spaces and develop leadership skills. Participating in these initiatives allows youth to build confidence, meet mentors and learn how to influence decisions that affect their communities.
2. Leverage Your Skills and Passions
Civic engagement is most effective when you bring your own strengths to the table. Whether your talents lie in communications, project management, research or creative work, there are opportunities to apply them. During my Ujima Fellowship with the Africa Centre, I saw how combining research, strategy and collaboration strengthened programs and created measurable impact in board governance. The takeaway for readers is clear: your existing skills are valuable in shaping programs and communities!
3. Seek Mentorship and Build Networks
Mentorship accelerates growth. Joining student clubs, leadership associations, alumni councils or advisory boards, like those I have been involved with at the University of Alberta, connects you with people who have walked similar paths. These networks provide guidance, share resources, and help you navigate challenges while giving you opportunities to support others along the way.
4. Take Advantage of Learning Opportunities
Courses, workshops and leadership programs provide tools for civic engagement. Participating in initiatives like YELL Lab or other professional development opportunities allows youth to gain practical skills in leadership, social innovation, and project management. Learning while participating in real-world projects ensures that knowledge is immediately applicable and impactful.
5. Apply Your Knowledge Through Action
The most meaningful growth comes from doing. Community projects, research fellowships and apprenticeships give young people the chance to put their skills into practice.
One concrete way we are continuing this work in Edmonton is through our upcoming Financial Literacy Series. This program is designed to equip youth with practical skills for managing money, understanding investments and making informed financial decisions. It ensures youth not only have the confidence to engage in civic and professional spaces, but also the tools to thrive independently. Programs like this show that civic engagement is not just about leadership in projects; it is about equipping youth with life skills that support broader success.
6. Give Back Along the Way
Civic engagement works best as a cycle. When youth step into these spaces, offering support and guidance to others strengthens both themselves and the communities around them. Accessible programs and intentional mentorship can create meaningful and lasting change.
Through my personal experiences, academic projects, professional work, volunteerism and fellowship opportunities, I have seen how thoughtful engagement opens doors not only for youth, but also for the communities they are part of, fostering resilience, innovation,and inclusion.
When youth, particularly those who are racialized or immigrant, have access to the right resources and guidance, they are empowered to lead, advocate and develop solutions that better reflect the diversity and needs of their communities.
Anurika (Rika) Onyenso
Contact: LinkedIn
