Services
Services at ACYEF
African Canadian Youth Empowerment Foundation (ACYEF) provides free, culturally safe support so African youth and families can settle, belong, and thrive in Canada.
Newcomer Settlement Support
What we do
Personal intake and goal plan
Help with SIN, health cards (provincial), IDs, school enrollment, banking, benefits (CTB/CCB), and newcomer orientation
Job readiness (resume, credentials review, interview prep) + referrals to employment programs
Navigation to community services (libraries, transit, recreation, food banks) and legal/immigration resources
How it works
Format: 1:1 appointments (video/phone/in-person), group orientation sessions
Timeline: Intake within 3–5 business days; urgent cases prioritized
What to bring (if you have them): ID, immigration documents, address, resume/school info
Outcomes we aim for
Documents secured faster • School or job plan in place • Strong start in your new city
Homelessness & Housing Support
What we do
Rapid navigation to shelters, transition housing, and rental options
Tenant-rights information, letters, forms, and mediation support
Stabilization plans: budgeting, documents, benefits, and referrals to provincial programs
How it works
Format: Urgent response; virtual + local partner appointments
Priority: Youth at risk or currently unhoused; families with minors
Safety: We coordinate warm handoffs so no one is left without next steps
Outcomes we aim for
Safer short-term options • Pathway to stable housing • Reduced risk of eviction
Mental Health & Addiction Awareness
What we do
Culturally responsive workshops (stress, grief, identity, substance use)
Peer support groups moderated by trained facilitators
Warm referrals to licensed counselors/clinics that understand culture and migration
How it works
Format: Group sessions (online/in-person) and 1:1 navigation
Confidentiality: Private, non-judgmental; you control what you share
Accessibility: Evening/weekend groups available; no diagnosis required
Outcomes we aim for
Reduced stigma • Coping skills • Faster connection to professional care if needed
Cultural Encouragement & Development
What we do
Language/heritage clubs, cultural celebrations, arts & storytelling
Anti-racism education and belonging workshops in schools/communities
Parent–youth circles that strengthen identity and connection
How it works
Format: Clubs, pop-ups, and community events across provinces
Access: Free or sliding-scale; volunteer-led with staff oversight
Inclusion: Welcoming to mixed-heritage and Canadian-born youth
Outcomes we aim for
Stronger sense of identity • Safer schools & communities • Intergenerational connection
Talent Encouragement & Support
What we do
Mentorship in arts, sports, tech, entrepreneurship, and leadership
Scholarships, internships, resume/portfolio help, and interview coaching
Showcases, tournaments, hack nights, and pitch events
How it works
Format: National mentor network + local chapters; 3–6 month cycles
Eligibility: Youth 12–29; basic commitment to attend sessions
Safety: Screened mentors; child protection policies in place
Outcomes we aim for
Clear career/education steps • Real-world experience • Confidence and networks
Youth Mentorship & Peer Groups (cross-program)
Focus
Weekly small groups: study skills, leadership, wellness, newcomer life hacks
Led by trained facilitators and vetted mentors
Social Events & Recreation
Belong. Move. Have fun.
ACYEF’s social and recreation programs bring African youth and families together across Canada—online and in local chapters. Activities are welcoming, low-cost (often free), and designed for connection, wellness, and confidence.
Who it’s for: Youth ages 12–29 and their families (newcomers, refugees, international students, and Canadian-born youth).
Delivery: Online nationwide + local meetups/events in cities across Canada.
Cost: Free or sliding scale. Fee waivers available—no one is turned away.
Languages: English, French; interpreters/volunteer translators available (Swahili, Amharic, Arabic, Somali, and more).
What We Offer
1) Community Socials
Welcome Nights & Mixers: meet peers, learn about services, icebreakers, snacks.
Cultural Celebration Series: music, dance, fashion, storytelling; co-hosted with community partners.
Game & Film Nights: board/video games, FIFA tournaments, movie screenings + discussions.
2) Recreation & Sports
Drop-in Sports: soccer, basketball, volleyball; all skill levels.
Girls+ Active Hours: women/girls and gender-diverse friendly spaces with female facilitators.
Outdoor Recreation: hiking, skating, snowshoeing, cycling; seasonal gear provided where possible.
Leagues & Tournaments: short seasons with volunteer coaches and referees.
3) Arts & Creative Labs
Dance & Drum Workshops: Afrobeats, traditional rhythms, hip hop.
Studio Sessions: beat-making, songwriting, podcasting, photography basics.
Visual Arts: painting, design, cultural crafts; gallery/showcase opportunities.
4) Leadership & Service Days
Community Impact Projects: park cleanups, welcome-kit packing, peer tutoring.
Youth Ambassadors: host events, emcee, or DJ with staff support.
Not sure where to start? Join a Welcome Night or book a quick Program Match call.
Why It Matters
Belonging: build friendships and supportive networks.
Wellbeing: safe, active spaces reduce stress and isolation.
Confidence & Skills: teamwork, leadership, communication, creativity.
Cultural Pride: celebrate heritage while navigating life in Canada.
How It Works
Register
Create a free account and choose events by city or “Online.”
Youth under 18 need a parent/guardian consent form (digital OK).
Attend
Most events are drop-in friendly; some require RSVP due to space/gear.
Transportation support (bus tickets) and snacks often available—ask in advance.
Gear & Access
We provide or loan basic equipment (balls, skates/helmets in some cities, art supplies).
Tell us any accessibility needs—we’ll adapt activities or provide alternatives.
Safety & Inclusion
Trained staff/volunteers, first-aid kits, incident reporting.
Two-adult rule for youth programs; gender-responsive options available.
Photo/video only with written consent; opt-out stickers at events.
Code of Conduct
Dignity, Belonging, Integrity, Excellence, Service.
No harassment, racism, hate, or bullying.
Substance-free youth events (no alcohol/drugs).