Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

Our Commitment

At the Award, we know that supporting diversity, equity and inclusion is crucial to our growth and development. This commitment is woven into our mission and vision and is the tenet of how we operate as an organization. That means building an equitable workplace and promoting courageous engagement both internally with staff, and externally in the communities we serve and with our partners.

 

The Award is an adaptable framework for positive youth development that can be used by all communities across Canada. As an organization we aim to connect and collaborate with diverse communities and support equitable and inclusive participation to ensure that young people in Canada from all backgrounds and life circumstances are guided to reach their full potential.

We are guided by the following core principles:

  • Intersectionality: We acknowledge and respect the complex identities that shape an individual’s experience.

  • Accessibility: We strive to make our programs and communications inclusive and accessible to all.

  • Transparency: We commit to sharing our progress and learning openly.

Our Actions:

  • Representation & Reach: We continuously work towards expanding our reach and ensuring diverse representation in leadership, programming, and partnerships.

  • Education & Allyship: We ensure that staff, mentors, and partners are aware of DEI, allyship, and inclusive best practices.

  • Empowering People: We foster a workplace culture where individuals feel safe, valued, and empowered to bring their authentic selves.

Our goals are to:                                                                           

 

  • Continue to measure our DEI goals and track progress.

     

     

  • Include DEI impact in our annual reports.

  • Create feedback channels for staff and community input.

  • Partner with diverse communities to co-create inclusive programming.

  • Collaborate with like-minded organization to support our DE&I initiatives

Each of us has a role to play in advancing this commitment. It means being self-reflective, being curious of different perspectives and most importantly appreciating and celebrating one another’s contributions to our Award community. In doing so, we will ensure that the Award in Canada continues to thrive in the coming years and beyond.

 

Together, we will continue to build a more equitable and inclusive Award community, one where every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.