Agapi Gessesse Wants Canada To Invest In Black Youth: “We’re Advocating For A Clear, Long-Term Strategy.”
Canada’s economy is at a crossroads, facing significant labour shortages and untapped potential among its youth. At the heart of this challenge is the urgent need to address unemployment rates among Black youth—an issue Agapi Gessesse, Executive Director of the CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals, passionately advocates for.
During a recent two-day series of meetings involving leaders from organizations like Skills for Change, the Ethiopian Association of Toronto, Tropicana, and Eva’s Initiatives, Gessesse highlighted the importance of a comprehensive youth employment strategy. “This country has a labor gap that needs to be met, and it will only be met by newcomers and young people,” she stated. With Canada projected to have 250,000 job vacancies by 2025, the contributions of Black youth and other marginalized communities are critical to sustaining economic growth.
A Stark Reality
Currently, the unemployment rate for Black youth in Canada stands at a staggering 24%, far exceeding the national average. Gessesse called this “unacceptable,” emphasizing the economic cost of inaction. “For every 1% that we decrease Black unemployment, we are contributing to the economy. If we were to close that gap entirely, we could generate $36 billion annually,” she explained. Such a shift would not only empower individuals but also alleviate rising costs of living, from rent to food.
Programs with Proven Impact
The CEE Centre and its partners are at the forefront of change, offering training and creating pathways to employment in high-demand sectors like trades and technology. These programs address systemic barriers, helping Black youth build meaningful careers while fostering economic resilience. However, their success hinges on consistent, sustainable funding—a point Gessesse stressed repeatedly.
“Our organizations have seen significant investment and then de-investment,” she noted, pointing out how fluctuating support undermines progress. “Black youth face unique barriers to employment, and every community’s needs are different. That’s why we’re advocating for a clear, long-term strategy.”
A Call for Action
Gessesse’s message to policymakers is straightforward: investing in Black youth employment is not just a social imperative but an economic one. She urged all political parties to prioritize this issue as the country approaches its next election. “This is a non-partisan conversation. The future of work requires all of us to contribute meaningfully,” she said.
By addressing youth unemployment through targeted investments, Canada can unlock the potential of an untapped talent pool, ensuring a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
About the CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals
The CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals is a Toronto-based organization dedicated to breaking barriers for Black youth through career training, mentorship, and community building. Their initiatives are designed to address systemic inequities, equipping young people with the skills and support needed to thrive in today’s economy.
