Changemakers in action: How young people are driving inclusion across Canada

At See Different, we know that young people are already leading the way in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their communities. Our goal is to provide the tools, resources, and support to help turn their ideas into reality.

As a national youth education initiative of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), we offer free training to youth aged 15-26 through two levels of certification:

• Certificate 1: Principles of DEI – Building foundational knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Certificate 2: Emerging Leaders of DEI – Developing leadership skills to create meaningful change.
  

Participants who complete both levels can apply for a Changemaker Grant—up to $2,000 to fund a project that breaks down barriers to equity or inclusion in their school or community. These grants recognize the leadership, creativity, and commitment of young people and help expand the reach of their work.

Here are some of the incredible projects that were brought to life through our Changemaker Grants in 2024:

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Expanding access to mental health supports

Lian (Ontario)

Lian used her Changemaker Grant to organize a free mental health workshop for students at her university in collaboration with her university chapter of Jack.org and the Canadian Centre for Suicide Prevention. The session focused on Suicide Prevention Conversations, equipping students with practical tools to support their peers and build a culture of care.

We recognize that financial barriers often limit access to mental health resources, and Lian’s project created an inclusive, judgment-free space where students could engage in these critical conversations – at no cost to them! Held during the height of exam season, the workshop met a real need by helping students manage stress, reduce stigma, and strengthen their capacity to look out for one another.

By partnering with local and national organizations, Lian’s leadership not only increased awareness, but also helped normalize peer support and mental health dialogue across campus. Her work is a powerful example of how young people are leading the way in making mental wellness more accessible, culturally relevant, and community-driven.

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Building community through a BIPOC Affinity Group Rohil & Jesty (New Brunswick)

Recognizing a gap in support systems for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) faculty and staff at their university, Rohil and Jesty took action to create something meaningful and lasting. Rather than waiting for change, they initiated the development of a BIPOC Affinity Group – a space rooted in connection, mentorship, and collective advocacy.

Through thoughtful stakeholder engagement and the facilitation of an inaugural social event, they laid the groundwork for a supportive community where faculty and staff could build relationships, share lived experiences, and collaborate across departments. This foundation sets the stage for ongoing dialogue, mutual support, and systemic change within their institution.

We are proud to support initiatives like this that move beyond representation and toward building relationships – creating spaces where people don’t just exist, but feel seen, supported, and valued. Rohil and Jesty’s work reminds us that cultivating belonging isn’t just a student issue – it’s a campus-wide responsibility, and one that is best led by those who know their communities best.

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Increasing representation in rock climbing

Baneen (Alberta)

Recognizing the barriers many Muslim women face in accessing recreational activities, Baneen set out to change the narrative. She organized a rock-climbing event exclusively for Muslim women in her community at a local climbing gym – creating a space where participants could feel comfortable, represented, and fully themselves.

For many attendees, it was their first time trying the sport in an environment designed with their needs and values in mind. The event encouraged movement, confidence-building, and connection, showing that outdoor and adventure sports can be inclusive – and should be. More than just a physical activity, it became a space for community, joy, and self-discovery.

By addressing gaps in representation and access, Baneen is opening doors – and climbing walls – for the next generation of Muslim women in sport!

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Creating a more accessible campus

Obed, Anthonia & Luciana (Prince Edward Island)

Obed, Anthonia, and Luciana saw an opportunity to spark change on their campus by addressing barriers to accessibility. Their initiative, "Access for All UPEI," was more than just a conversation – it was a catalyst for action.

Bringing together students, faculty, and staff, the event created space for meaningful discussions about how to make the university more inclusive. By centering the voices of individuals with lived experience, they reinforced that accessibility is not just a policy conversation – it’s a community effort.

What made this initiative even more powerful was how these young leaders harnessed their unique skills and experiences to make it happen. From organizing logistics to engaging key decision-makers, they demonstrated the power of grassroots leadership and collective action.

And their impact isn’t stopping here. "Access for All UPEI" has sparked ongoing conversations and initiatives to ensure accessibility remains a priority on campus long after the event itself. Their work is a reminder that small actions can lead to lasting change – and that young leaders have the power to shape more inclusive spaces wherever they go.

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Strengthening cultural connections through Drummaking

Julia & Ashley (Nova Scotia)

Julia, who is Cree, and Ashley, who is Mi’kmaw and Ukrainian, organized a Drummaking workshop for Indigenous women from three communities in Mi’kma’ki, creating an opportunity for connection, cultural learning, and healing. 

Although drummaking is not originally a Mi’kmaw tradition, it has been embraced in many Mi’kmaw communities as a meaningful way to gather, reflect, and express identity. By drawing from their own backgrounds and relationships to culture, Julia and Ashley created a space where diverse Indigenous traditions could meet — bringing people together through shared practice and community care. One powerful moment came when an Elder made her first drum, adding to the collective energy and intention of the gathering.

At See Different, we are committed to supporting projects that honour Indigenous knowledge and traditions on their own terms, and this initiative is a beautiful example of how young leaders are strengthening cultural connections and intergenerational learning.

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Recognizing the leadership of young changemakers

Each of these projects reflects the agency, vision, and leadership that young people bring to their communities. Through the See Different program, we are not just teaching DEI – we are providing young leaders with the resources to shape the future of inclusion in Canada.

If you have a project idea that could make a difference, we encourage you to:

✅ Complete our DEI training – Gain the tools to lead change.

✅ Apply for a Changemaker Grant – Get the funding to bring your vision to life.

✅ Join our growing network of young Changemakers – Connect with others who are making an impact.

Your ideas have the power to create lasting change – and we’re here to help make it happen!