BIPOC Youth Expo & Summit 2026 to Bring Career Pathways, Mentorship and Cultural Celebration to Toronto

Positioned as a high-energy, youth-centered event for BIPOC students aged 15 to 25, the summit is designed to help participants explore career pathways, mentorship opportunities, leadership development, and post-secondary options — all within a culturally affirming environment.

Organizers describe the event as both a celebration and a practical resource hub under the theme: “Know your community & believe in yourself… We do.”

A Space for Career Exploration and Confidence Building

The BIPOC Youth Expo & Summit will feature career panels, workshops, networking sessions and cultural showcases, including programming by BLACKNORTH Initiatives. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with BIPOC leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and skilled trades professionals across a wide range of industries.

High school, college and university students, young professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives are expected to benefit from sessions focused on:

• Post-secondary education planning

• Skilled trades and apprenticeship pathways

• Entrepreneurship and venture capital

• Leadership development

• Community advocacy and cultural engagement

The event is also geared toward community organizers, youth workers, mentors and organizations looking to engage and support BIPOC youth talent in meaningful ways.

All-Star Panel of Leaders and Changemakers

This year’s summit features an extensive lineup of speakers and panelists from across education, business, skilled trades, and cultural leadership, including:

• Dr. Rosemary Sadlier, author, historian, and Emancipation Day Chair, LINC Committee

• Issac Olowolafe Jr., award-winning real estate entrepreneur and venture capitalist

• Emily O’Brien, founder of Comeback Snacks

• Efosa KC Obano, Black Founders Network and African Impact Initiative

• Desneige Frandsen, Indigenous Justice Program Manager

• Stephanie McLean, Red Seal Electrical Journeyperson

• Kwadwo Adusei, Secondary School Principal

• Leslie McCue, Manager of Indigenous Learning & Programs at the ROM

• Adamou Ceesay, Journeyperson Carpenter, Local 27

• DJ BONDE and Chef Patience Chirisa

The summit’s programming also includes creative showcases, live performances, art installations and digital media presentations highlighting the talent and creativity of BIPOC youth.

National Attention and Community Impact

The BIPOC Youth Expo & Summit has attracted national media attention in previous years, in part due to its cross-sector approach — bringing together business leaders, educators, trades professionals and community advocates in one space.

By combining cultural celebration with tangible career development tools, organizers aim to provide practical insights while reinforcing confidence and representation among attendees.

Schools and youth organizations across the GTA are encouraged to participate and register students for the February 23 event.

Registration is available through Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/bipoc-youth-expo-summit-2026-tickets-1981600399137