South Asian communities have immigrated to Canada since the late 19th century, now forming the country’s largest racialized group, with over 2.3 million people (Statistics Canada, 2021). Many South Asian-Canadian youth, including second-generation Canadians and young immigrants, are now a significant part of the workforce, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area.

While much research exists on career development and unemployment of racialized youth, little attention has been given to the career development and workforce experiences of young South Asian women and gender diverse individuals living and/or working in Canada . Members of this group include first and second-generation Canadians, who are influenced by both their distinct ethnic and racial history and their personal experiences (Sundar, 2008).

To fill this research gap, the South Asian Women’s Collective led a 2-year community action research project to better understand the career development and employment needs of young South Asian women and gender diverse individuals (between the ages of 18-30) living across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The motivation to lead this research stemmed from several years of programming and gatherings led by SAWC in the community, and the continuous stories shared by young women on the challenges and barriers experienced with navigating career pathways, finding employment, and advancing in their careers.