This is how we started
The Canadian youth of East Africa (YEA) was founded in 2015 by two recent university graduates of East African heritage, alongside a small group of seven peers who wanted to bring young people of East African heritage together in Toronto. At the time, there were no big structures or programs, just conversations, shared experiences, and a need for belonging. We showed up for each other, and slowly, that circle grew.
Over time, that circle has grown into YEA, a community shaped by lived experience, shared responsibility, and a commitment to showing up for one another.
Today, we continue to build spaces where East African youth in Canada can connect to culture, mentorship, opportunity, and each other.
What we believe
Our pillars are built on our mission to mobilize , motivate and mentor young people
of East African descent in Canada. These pillars aim to create leadership development opportunities,
improve career development resources, and foster community pride and engagement.
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We believe that community is not something you attend, it is something you build together.
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We believe young people thrive when they are seen, supported, and connected to others who understand their journey.
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And we believe that culture, identity, and opportunity should never feel separate from each other.
YEA exists to hold space for all three.
Mobilize
YEA was created to foster a vibrant community! Our MOBILIZE Pillar brings youth and young adults across our communities together.
We bring young people together through social events, conversations, and shared spaces where connection comes first.
Motivate
In line with our commitment to offer leadership opportunities to the youth in our community, our MOTIVATE pillar emphasizes personal development workshops.
We create opportunities for growth through learning from those who have walked similar paths.
Mentor
Rooted in the belief that success comes from uplifting one another, our MENTOR pillar focuses on fostering career development through mentorship.
We build meaningful relationships that support youth through school, career, and life transitions.
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven't spent a night with a mosquito”