This is the iAM Program

The Heart of JAYU Programming

JAYU’s iAM Program provides human rights x arts training and professional development for equity-seeking youth between the ages of 12 - 29. Participants of the multi-week and multi-year programs receive mentorship from some of Toronto’s most talented artists, activists, and educators. The iAM program is at the heart of JAYU’s programming and we are proud to offer this one-of-a-kind series, all year round.

PAST iAM PROGRAM WORK

Let’s Break It Down…

iAM Core

iAM Core programming is offered year-round with cohorts every Spring, Summer, and Fall. iAM Core offers programs in various disciplines, including: DSLR photography, filmmaking, painting, collaging, jewelry making, poetry, hip hop storytelling. In all cases, we offer programs at introductory, intermediate and advanced levels.

iAM Action

iAM Action is where youth go to get professional development and leadership training from an equity lens. Areas mentorship include: CV/portfolio development, grant writing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, community outreach, mentorship training, and anti-oppression training.

iAM Community

iAM Community are one-day workshops for those looking for more casual engagement with creative practice, through a human rights and social justice lens. Workshops include mobile photography and storytelling.

iAM Partnerships

Through iAM Partnerships, we support our youth with employment activities and networking. This includes establishing partnership-led programs with organizations we LOVE (DesignTO, Modesto, Gallery 44 etc.) and regular establishing employment contracts for content creation (i.e. diverse stock photography, event photography/videography etc.)

iAM Residencies

Our youth are stars and we want to show the world. Through our iAM Residencies, participating youth artists experience longer-term programs that often feature 1:1 mentorship opportunities, and culminate in a larger presentation format, such as exhibitions, portraiture sittings, and slam poetry performances.