What is Ascending Sisters+?
Ascending Sisters+ is a mentorship program that connects Black girls and Black non-binary students in Grades 7-10 with self-identified Black YRDSB staff.
This program is currently running in select pilot schools.
The Program
Ascending Sisters+ seeks to empower, affirm and advance the achievement, well-being and sense of belonging of participants through programming that:
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reinforces their sense of identity
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builds confidence and self-esteem
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enhances academic performance
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enhances advocacy, communication and leadership skills
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promotes healing
Priorities of the program include:
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enhancing the development of all students’ socio-cultural consciousness (e.g. affirm identities, histories, lived experiences, ways of knowing and being) to understand structures in society and the many manifestations of anti-Black racism that impede development, growth and progress
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amplifying voice and agency to build self-confidence and self-esteem for students to be their best selves and in turn develop leadership, communication, and self-advocacy skills
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developing knowledge of post-secondary education and potential career pathways in order to allow for the successful navigation of the education system
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learning those strategies that support one’s mental health and provide wellness and mental health tools that encourage students to develop daily holistic practices
Programming will include: leadership training, career exploration, guest speakers and connections to affirming community initiatives, and connections to healing and well-being activities.