Support this Project

Piloting and Expanding Next Gen Photography: A Project Designed and Led by BIPOC Youth

What is this project about?

The project is about piloting and expanding Next Gen Photography, a social enterprise project
researched and developed by BIPOC youth which is geared at skill building and employment opportunities for underserved youth facing employment barriers. Next Gen Photography empowers BIPOC youth and aspiring creatives—particularly those from underrepresented communities—by providing them with the practical skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience needed to launch
careers in photography and related creative fields. This project is committed to creating local employment, fostering self-reliance, and strengthening communities using CED principles by focusing on skill-building and job readiness. We do this by offering comprehensive job and skills training coupled with clear pathways to employment. Our workshops cover digital photography, lighting, editing software, and portfolio development, all led by experienced local photographers and industry professionals who share technical expertise and crucial career insights. Participants gain practical experience by working on real client projects and community events, enabling
them to develop a professional portfolio that helps them stand out to potential employers. Through partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and creative agencies, participants have opportunities to connect with mentors and secure internships, creating a direct path to future job placements. Additionally, we support local employment by hiring our Advanced Youth Entrepreneurship program alums as assistant instructors, freelance photographers, or project coordinators for community events. This creates a circular
model from which local talent benefits and contributes to the program’s success. We also collaborate with community organizations and small businesses to provide photography gigs in participants’ neighbourhoods, keeping economic growth within the community and fostering a supportive local creative ecosystem.

Why is this project important to the community?

Our project is vital to the community because it directly addresses barriers to employment and creative growth while fostering local economic resilience. By facilitating access to quality training, mentorship, and real-world experience, we help individuals—especially those from marginalized and at-risk backgrounds—build confidence, develop employable skills, and gain meaningful connections within the creative industry. This not only supports individual career advancement but also strengthens the social fabric and economic stability of the neighbourhood, ensuring that local talent is nurtured and retained. This keeps youth involved in constructive activities and away from the streets.
Furthermore, our collaboration with community organizations and small businesses ensures participants have access to local photography gigs, keeping economic benefits within the community. By providing shared resources such as studio space and equipment, we remove financial barriers and enable ongoing skill development. The program’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and self-reliance empowers participants to pursue freelance opportunities or launch small businesses, contributing to a vibrant, self-sustaining creative ecosystem. Through these efforts, we are building a more inclusive, engaged, and resilient community that aligns with the values of the Commonwell LEAF Initiative Learning and Engagement Accelerator Fund.

Target Completion Date
December 18, 2026
Location
316 Parkvale Drive
Kitchener
N2R 1Y7

support

Rally Behind a Great Idea

Your voice matters. Show your support for submitted projects by leaving a comment, sharing your story or photo, or posting to social media. Every bit of encouragement helps communities grow stronger together.