City of Brampton launches new performing arts Internship and Co-op Program for Black and Indigenous Youth

BRAMPTON, ON (May 2, 2021) – The City of Brampton launches its new Black and Indigenous Youth Internship and Co-op Program in the performing arts, the first of its kind in Canada, on Saturday, June 5.
Designed by and for Black and Indigenous students, the program was developed to celebrate and elevate Black and Indigenous youth, increase cultural understanding, provide opportunities for professional development, and prepare students for future leadership positions and careers in the live performing arts industry.

Recognizing the need for action on equity and social impact, the program will help break down barriers that Black and Indigenous youth experience in acquiring training and opportunities in the arts. The program is supported by Algoma University and managed by the City of Brampton, in coordination with local school boards. Over the past three months, the first cohort of five students started the pilot program with lead mentors and community members Cameron Grant, Angela Boyer, Deneille R. Walters, as well as the City’s Performing Arts staff. The team worked on this virtual pilot project to design a framework for the program for years to come.
On Saturday, June 5, at 1 pm, attend a virtual presentation to learn more about the 2021 pilot program, the students' roles as program designers, and how to get involved at therosebrampton.ca. In 2022, one paid internship spot, will be open to university and college applicants, and four co-op spots, open to high-school applicants, will be available through the program. The City of Brampton’s internship co-op program is built to align with the City’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategy to focus on attracting and growing a diverse workforce reflective of the community.