The Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) Funding Program has reopened for black youth and early career professionals interested in developing sought-after skills in medical diagnostics, clinical research, and business analytics.
In August 2023, The High Grade Academy (High Grade Academy) introduced the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) Funding Program. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism (MCM), aims to upskill and place Ontarian Black youth and early career professionals in high-paying jobs in the health sector in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
The BYAP program offers eligible applicants with 100% funding on in-demand micro-credentials and up-skilling workshops:
- Phlebotomy Certificate Program – Micro-Credential leading to Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
- Clinical Research Essentials Micro-Credential Program
- Healthcare & Business Analytics Micro-Credential Program
Within six months, the BYAP program has successfully granted funding for a total of 60 black youth recipients; 30 were enrolled in the Phlebotomy Certificate Program, 15 in Clinical Research Essentials, and another 15 in Healthcare & Business Analytics. Beyond earning their certificates and training, participants were also provided the resources to gain hands-on experience through the availability of job placements and capstone projects. This opportunity ensures graduates are equipped with the tools relevant to their professional careers.
Even though micro-credential programs are shorter than degrees or diplomas, their educational journey took a great amount of commitment and dedication. As someone who has had the chance to work behind the scenes for the BYAP program, I have witnessed and learned students’ stories unfold. Most of them were in pursuit of postsecondary education or have earned their degrees outside Canada, there were also others already working in the field. Despite coming from different backgrounds, all their hopes remain the same– to be able to pursue a fulfilling and secure career.
To celebrate this milestone;
High Grade Academy held its first ever BYAP Program Graduation last February 2024 in time for Black History month. Along with their families, graduates were invited to receive their respective micro-credential certificates. The entire ceremony was filled with enthusiasm and gratitude from everyone as their educational achievement extends to all the people that made this happen. Faith A., graduate of the Healthcare & Business Analytics Program wrote,
(Thank You) For your great heart, for thinking of the black youth when you could comfortably ignore. I really appreciate the thorough teachings, the meticulous instructions, and the ambiance of the learning environment. Words can’t explain how grateful I am.”
It was indeed a remarkable night for all, made even more special by the exciting news of the continuation of the BYAP funding program for another year.
High Grade Academy’s BYAP Funding Program 2024-2025 is now open to aspiring black youth and early career professionals to advance their careers. The eligibility criteria for this program are following:
- You are a Black young person aged 18 to 34 years (Required)
- Completed high school diploma with subjects including English, Biology, and Mathematics or equivalent (Required)
- Aptitude towards working in the health sector and innovative clinical research or business analytics (Required)
- Completion or enrolment in a health-sector-focused post-secondary program (preferred)
- Note: Applicants must be residing in Ontario who are either Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents and convention refugees.
The application form is accessible here. After submission, we will begin processing your application and get back to you via email provided to us. This process may take up to 3-5 business days. Available seats in micro-credential programs are limited and thus, the nature of this is first-come-first-serve opportunity. We strongly advise your earliest application.
As the BYAP program continues to seek black youth representation in healthcare sector technologies the High Grade Academy (High Grade Academy) confidently believes towards an empowered future for all. It was indeed a remarkable night for all, made even more special by the exciting news of the continuation of the BYAP funding program for another year.