Intership and Co-Op Program for Black and Indigenous Youth
About the Program
The Heartbeats Program is the first of its kind in Canada. Facilitated by the City of Brampton and generously supported by Algoma University, the program is designed by, for, and with Black and Indigenous students, and guided by an incredible team of Indigenous and Black mentors, professional artists and community members.
It was created as a space for Black and Indigenous youth to investigate themselves, their heritage, identities, and communities in a holistic way that honours the past and builds a foundation for exploring their creative expression and career opportunities in the Performing Arts.
The program underwent design consultation and facilitation from March to June 2021 during the pilot of the program, with the intention of having Black and Indigenous high school students participate in the creation of the future program. Since then, the program has run every year and continued to grow and change as each new cohort redefines what it means to be a Heartbeat.
Through this program, students gain confidence in their creative expression and potential as community leaders. To ensure students continue in their growth, they are provided access to resources and opportunities to advance their creative goals beyond their Co-op/Internship term.
Goals
The program aims to celebrate and elevate Black and Indigenous youth, increase cultural understanding, provide opportunities for professional development. The goal is to prepare students for future leadership positions and careers in arts & culture industries.
Aligned with City of Brampton priorities:
Areas of Focus
- Multi-dimensional Black and Indigenous education
- Community engagement
- Creative expression opportunities
- Career Mentorship
- Wholistic Support
- Collaborative evolution
- Having fun!
The Opportunities
High School Co-op Program
This co-op program is a hybrid, virtual and in-person co-op placement with the City of Brampton for semester two (Winter/Spring) with four co-op spots available. The program is for Black and Indigenous students in grades 11 and 12 in Brampton. Co-op students function as junior program facilitators, and will develop leadership, administrative, and teamwork skills. Students will complete both an independent piece of work in their performing arts discipline, as well as a collaborative project, the planning and delivery of a free open mic night for National Youth Week.
Paid Internship Program
This internship program is for Black and Indigenous students that are currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution (college/university) and will connect a student to one paid internship spot beginning in the Winter Semester. This internship will function as part Artist Residency and part Program Facilitation/Administration Support. The Education & Community Programming Intern will take on a leadership role with the Co-op students, and support staff with the facilitation of the program. As an Artist Residency, the successful Intern will have the opportunity to create and present an original piece of work in their discipline. The program will acquire the appropriate support for the Intern, including but not limited to, venue access and rehearsal space.
Opportunity Fund
The Opportunity Fund is an economic resource offered to Heartbeats participants. It provides access to a resource, tool, event, or other opportunity that will further students' creative explorations and growth. Guidelines for submitting the application, as well as spending limits, are introduced at the beginning of each year's program with a set deadline.
