Our Story
Black Youth Success (BYS) began as the Black Youth School Success Initiative (BYSSI), an ethno-specific collaborative funded by United Way Peel Region. Using a collective impact approach, BYSSI brought together Black-led agencies, mainstream organizations, and schools to build individual and collective capacity to address identified service gaps and improve educational outcomes for Black children and youth in Peel Region. The initiative was developed in response to the 2015 FACES Report (Facilitating Access, Change & Equity in Systems), which highlighted concerns within the Black student experience, including inequities in educational outcomes, experiences of discrimination and systemic barriers, and the need for stronger culturally responsive supports and partnerships.
Through strategic placement in nine PDSB schools—including middle schools and their feeder high schools—and later in Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board high schools. BYSSI staff worked collaboratively with schools, agencies, students, and families to provide relevant, culturally responsive wraparound programming and maintained continuity of support as students transitioned into high school. With an initial goal of supporting approximately 500 Black students in Grades 6–8 and throughout their four years of high school over five years, BYSSI achieved its goal.
What began as a collaborative initiative has since evolved into Black Youth Success (BYS), the non-profit organization known today by students, families, educators, and community stakeholders. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to the journey and helped shape the transition from BYSSI to BYS.
Our Impact
Through impactful programs, mentorship, and community partnerships, Black Youth Success is helping Black youth across Peel Region reach their full potential and build brighter futures.
We are grateful for our funders. Their continued support makes it possible to provide impactful programs, meaningful opportunities, and resources that help students thrive in school and beyond.
Impact Stats 2025-2026
499 youth registered
392 youth completed programs
150 schools represented across Peel Region
64% increase in program registrations year-over-year
Reports
Improving Black-Focused Programming: Perspectives from Black Youth and Parents/Caregivers (2024 Research Report)PDF
Report By: Cheyenne Raine-Lynch, Research Lead (Canada Summer Jobs)
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Our Team
Voices from Our Community
Our impact, their words.
Discover how Black Youth Success is making a difference through the voices of students, parents/caregivers, and school staff. Their experiences highlight the positive impact of our programs, partnerships, and commitment to supporting Black youth.
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“Over the past year, before I got admitted to York University, my mentor at BYS has greatly strengthened my personal and professional growth! Thanks to the many scheduled meetings I’ve had and the things he has taught me, I was able to approach my first year of University already knowing what to expect. Additionally, I learnt new approaches to time management, which has greatly improved my performances in both academics and extracurriculars. Beyond academics, I was told what to expect in the professional world in terms of careers and interviews. BYS has also opened and guided me to many professionals, and gain a clearer sense of direction for my future. Overall, my experience with BYS has not only helped me excel in academics but has also prepared me to approach life and my career with confidence and clarity.”
— Gabriel C., York University
“I’m grateful for you and all the visits you do for us, and I’m grateful for the music you play!”
— BSA Student
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“Since participating in the program, I have noticed a significant increase in my child’s interest in STEM. They show more curiosity about how things work, ask thoughtful questions, and are more eager to explore science- and technology-related activities both at school and at home. My child also appears more confident when discussing STEM topics and is more willing to try new challenges, even when the material is difficult.”
— Parent of STEM Program Participant
“This is an amazing program, and I would pay money to keep it going.”
— Tutoring Parent
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“Thank you for your time, care and commitment you have shared with us this year! The strong, genuine connections you have made with students has made a meaningful impact. They have felt seen, heard, and supported…”
— Middle School Vice Principal
Our Partners & Funders
Funders
Black Youth Success extends our sincere gratitude to our funders and supporters for investing in the success of Black children and youth. Your commitment helps us create meaningful opportunities, provide access to resources, and deliver programs that support academic achievement, career exploration, personal growth, and future success.
Region of Peel · ScotiaRise · Alectra · Ontario
Post-Secondary Partners
We are grateful to our post-secondary partners for helping Black students build confidence, access resources, and better understand the pathways available to achieve their educational and career goals. Your partnership helps us empower students to recognize their potential and envision a future of success.
University of Toronto (Mississauga) · Queen’s University · Sheridan College · Marca College
Community Agency Partners
BYS began with a vision to collaborate with community agencies to bridge gaps in services, resources, and supports for Black youth and families. We are grateful to continue this vision by partnering with local organizations to connect students and families with the opportunities and supports they need to thrive.
My Neighbourhood Services · Moyo Health Community Services · Roots Community Services · Big Brothers Big Sisters Peel-York · Aspire4Higher · Skills4Life · BGC Peel · Family Education Centre · Children’s Aid Society (The Trailblazers Youth Centre) · Basket Brigade Canada · Indus Space · Brampton Library
Black-Led Community Partner
BYS is grateful to our Black-led community partners and businesses who help create meaningful experiences for Black youth—designed with them in mind and facilitated by people they can see themselves reflected in.
Flip and Floss · Aunty T’s Kitchen · Love of Literature Book Club · Natural Mystics Hair Studio
School Board Partners
BYS appreciates the opportunity to be a trusted community partner to our school boards. Their collaboration strengthens our capacity to connect Black youth with meaningful programs, resources, and supports that help them learn, grow, and succeed.
Peel District School Board · Dufferin-Peel Catholic District Board
