Location: Lister Center at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Organizer: Aspire Youth Canada (Founded by 16-year-old Cosmas Edino) Attendance: Over 100 Black teenagers Mentors: 6 accomplished community leaders Sponsor: Africa Centre Funder: Canada Service Corps Master of Ceremony: North America’s award-winning MC Date: October 25, 2025 Event Overview On Saturday, October 25th, the Black Youth Mentorship Program delivered a powerful and transformative full-day event hosted at the University of Alberta’s Lister Centre. The event brought together over 100 Black teenagers for an experience designed to inspire, empower, and expand possibilities. The program was a youth-driven initiative led by sixteen-year-old founder, Cosmas Edino, whose vision was to create a space where Black youth could learn from accomplished mentors, ask bold questions, and build confidence to lead with purpose. Arrival & Registration The day began with teens arriving in high spirits, welcomed warmly by volunteers who supported registration and directed them to the event hall. Early scenes captured the excitement, conversations, and anticipation as youth took their seats and prepared for a full day of growth and connection. Room Setup & Preparations Behind the scenes, mentors and the event team prepared the room—finalizing seating, testing audio-visual equipment, reviewing the agenda, and setting the atmosphere for a polished and professional experience. Opening of the Program The event officially opened with a powerful introduction that centered the purpose of the mentorship initiative, lighting a spark in youth and building a community of hope, discipline, and leadership. Teens immediately engaged, demonstrating strong interest in the speakers and activities that followed. Mentor Sessions Six outstanding mentors, accomplished professionals and respected community leaders shared their personal journeys, including their challenges, victories, and principles that shaped their success. Their messages emphasized: Discipline and focus Self-belief and resilience Vision and purpose The courage to dream beyond limitations The room was filled with honest conversations and transformative reflections, creating an atmosphere of learning, vulnerability, and empowerment. Engagement with the Master of Ceremony The event was expertly anchored by an award-winning North American MC whose skill, warmth, and high energy kept the program engaging. Their presence brought structure, rhythm, and vibrancy, ensuring that the event flowed seamlessly. Youth-Led Dialogue & Q&A One of the most impactful aspects of the day was the moment teenagers began asking direct, bold, and reflective questions. This segment included: Career curiosity Academic discipline Overcoming fear Personal identity Purpose and leadership The mentors’ responses sparked deep thinking, widened perspectives, and affirmed each young person’s potential. Interviews & Reflections Throughout the program, youth and mentors participated in interviews, sharing their reflections on what the mentorship meant to them. Key themes included: Growth in confidence Newfound clarity Motivation to work harder A stronger sense of identity and belonging This portion highlighted the transformation taking place in real time. Appreciation & Acknowledgements The event included a formal appreciation segment recognizing all who made the day possible: Mentors For generously giving time, wisdom, and encouragement to young people. Master of Ceremony For elevating the experience with unmatched professionalism. Parents & Guardians For trusting Aspire Youth Canada with their children and supporting their participation. Volunteers For working tirelessly to ensure smooth registration, logistics, and coordination. Sponsor: Africa Centre For believing in the vision and providing essential support. Funder: Canada Service Corps For investing in youth development and making the program possible. Closing Moments The event concluded with group photos, lively interactions, celebration, and a renewed sense of purpose among the participants. Youth left with: Expanded vision Stronger confidence New mentors A sense of belonging The belief that their future is limitless The message of the day was clear: “Your identity is strength. Your voice is valid. Your future is limitless.” Final Reflection The October 25 Mentorship Program was not just an event. It was a defining moment for many youth. It embodied transformation, community strengthening, and the beginning of a movement to raise a generation of disciplined, confident, and purpose-driven leaders. Aspire Youth Canada has set a foundation that will continue to grow, inspire, and uplift youth for years to come. Sponsor – Africa Centre Funder – Canada Service Corp
