Research
Black Youth Diverse Learner Research Project
Towards Systemic Change
The Black Youth Diverse Learners Project is a collaborative community-based systems mapping project that captures the voices of Black youth diverse learners (age 16-30) at the intersection of Blackness, disability, age, gender, 2SLGBTQ+, and other identities and their complex experiences navigating employment and education within the Halton-Hamilton region.
Using a “For us, by us” approach, this critical research will center and amplify the voices of critical members of the Halton-Hamilton community including Black youth diverse learners; parents/caregivers; educators; and Black- and disability-serving community organizations.
These important insights will be captured through:
- 1-on-1 interviews
- Focus groups
- Photographic data collection
- Photovoice analysis
Project Outcomes:
- Identify structural and systemic barriers within the educational systems and community supports; document strategies for success and system navigation.
- Inform system-based solutions and approaches that are Black youth-focused, culturally relevant, and accessible.
Meet The Research Team:
Our team of Black researchers and community animators proudly bring their lived experience to lead this innovative project,
Dr. Rashelle Litchmore, BSc, MA, PhD | Principal Investigator |
Aaliyah Hinds, BAH, MEd | Graduate Student Research Analyst |
Nkem Ogbonna, BSc | Project Lead |
Liza Arnason, BA, MA | Project Lead and Advisory Member |
Devron Swaby |
Fawziyah Ibrahim |
Shanice Colley |
Bethel Andeghiorghis
Clio Smith
Matthew Jones
In addition to this, this project is also overseen by a network of community partners and a project advisory committee composed of Black youth diverse learners community partners, educators, a psychologist, and lead organizations.
Get Involved:
Focus Groups and Interviews: Your insights and experiences are critical to the success and lives of Black youth diverse learners
Please register for a confidential 1-hour focus group:
Black Youth Diverse Learners
This includes Black youth diverse learners and Black youth with disabilities (diagnosed, undiagnosed, and/or misdiagnosed) ages 16 – 30.
$50 honoraria
Community Members:
This includes parents, guardians, and caregivers of Black youth with disabilities/diverse learners; parent associations; Black-, disability-, and youth-serving community organizations. $50 honoraria.
Community Partners and Research Collaborators:
We welcome new community partners and collaborators to the project as members of the advisory committee, research team, and community outreach. Honoraria available.
Contact email [email protected]
Educators and Success Advisors:
This includes teachers, counsellors, student success supports, graduation coaches, and school board representatives.
To Learn More
Funded by:
