History

See Different started in 2015 as an in-school educational program that empowered students by providing them with the knowledge and tools to make meaningful change in their communities. Through a series of ten workshops led by a See Different facilitator, students were guided to explore the concepts of identity, diversity and inclusion, power and privilege, conflict management, peer mediation and allyship. During the second half of the program, students put these skills to work by designing a ‘school-wide initiative’, a project or campaign that addressed a diversity and inclusion challenge relevant to their school community.

Current iteration

After hearing from youth how impactful the program was, CCDI made the decision to revitalize and update the program and release it again as a two-part, online DEI training and certification program for youth. 

This program is offered free of charge to youth in Canada between the ages of 15-24. This age range is based on the UN definition of youth, and exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Students who participate will begin by taking the Principles of DEI certificate, which includes 5 hours of training, and then graduate to the Emerging leaders of DEI certificate, which includes 10 hours of training. The program introduces important fundamentals of DEI, including exploring DEI language and terminology, building awareness of different dimensions of diversity, and understanding Canada’s history of systemic racism and discrimination. As students move through the program, they will develop a deeper understanding of the topics of bias, equity, and allyship, culminating in the creation and implementation of a project that will help them enact change in their own communities and schools.

After graduating from the program, students will be invited to join our National Youth Ambassador Network for Emerging Leaders of DEI, where they will have the opportunity to build their networks with other students and DEI focused organizations in Canada.

Topics covered in the program:

  • Dimensions of diversity
  • Equity and inclusion
  • Power and privilege
  • Bias, prejudice, and discrimination
  • Allyship
  • Conflict mediation
  • Safe and brave spaces
  • Social action

Watch our bilingual virtual open house to learn more about the See Different program.

Registration

Registration for the See Different program is now open. Registrations can be completed as a group or as an individual.

  • Registration for groups: Student leaders, high school teachers, and/or college or university faculty/administration members may register on behalf of a group of youth using the form below. The recommended maximum group size for the program is 30 students. Click here to register a group.
  • Registration for individuals: Individuals not associated with a school or group may apply for the See Different program. Each cohort will be a maximum of 25 students. Click here to register as an individual.

 

If you have any questions or would like more information about the program, please contact see.different@ccdi.ca