The iAM Program
The iAM Program connects established and emerging artists in the city with equity-seeking youth (racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, lower-income, experiencing disabilities) to receive mentorship in an artistic discipline. JAYU runs iAM Programs across the city in various disciplines, with the goal of empowering young people to share their human rights stories through the arts, develop self-confidence and transferable skills, and find employment through JAYU’s laddered approach to arts training.
iAM effectively develops self-confidence for equity-deserving youth and has a measurable positive impact on mental health challenges resulting from experiences of systemic marginalization. Through iAM we connect young people from diverse backgrounds and identities to mentors and peers with similar lived experiences, using an arts engagement approach to help them build skills and confidence, develop community connections, and eventually employment outcomes tied to their developing arts practices.
The iAM program cultivates artistic and professional skills for youth from equity-deserving communities who often face barriers to participating in the arts and culture sector. iAM provides participants with accessible opportunities to cultivate storytelling skills in varied arts disciplines led by diverse artist mentors and amplifies these stories through public-facing showcases. Intentional focus on mentorship, community building and partnership all contribute to participants developing the tools they need to contribute to arts and culture, and increased confidence and professional skills. iAM is already strengthening and diversifying the sector. The iAM program connects participants to peers and mentors, and promotes a mindful and pragmatic approach to professional development, while also contributing to increased self-esteem and community connection.