This research study identifies mentorship as a crucial tool to address issues impacting racialized young adults, such as unemployment and challenges to their wellbeing.

Mentor Canada, in partnership with Social Research and Demonstration Corporation (SRDC), with funding support from the Government of Canada’s Skills for Success Program, conducted an 18-month mixed-methods research initiative that included a literature review, a survey of 3,110 young adults (1,618 racialized), and interviews with 23 youth and 13 mentoring stakeholders.

This study highlights how mentorship can help racialized young adults aged 18 to 30 strengthen skills for success, increase professional confidence, access meaningful opportunities and improve wellbeing. There are critical gaps in mentorship access for Black, Indigenous or People of Colour (BIPOC). Organizations, educators and policymakers are encouraged to review the executive summary and explore opportunities to improve mentorship possibilities.