Toronto, Canada, August 11, 2026 – TVO Media Education Group (TVO) has proudly partnered with the Toronto District School Board’s Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement to host the Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) for a sixth year. Since 2021, TVO has hosted 55 student leaders from Grades 10 to 12, providing immersive experiences that foster leadership, build transferable skills, and open doors to career pathways in media, education, and technology – all while experiencing some fun and exciting behind-the-scenes action at TVO.
The student leaders spend five weeks in office with TVO staff, gaining access to learning opportunities and working on essential professional skills such as interview techniques, teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication.
“TVO is proud to support the Black Student Summer Leadership Program as it reflects our commitment to inspiring learning and enriching our community. Through meaningful mentorship and hands-on workplace experiences, this year’s cohort gained valuable skills while also building confidence, fostering connections, and exploring potential career paths. We look forward to seeing this next generation of leaders continue to excel,” says Cathy Jung, VP of People & Culture at TVO.
Through this program, student leaders gain practical experience, professional skill-building, and the opportunity to explore career pathways. The students attend workshops, complete assignments, take part in meetings and discussions with senior leaders from all parts of the organization, as well as work with a mentor to explore their talents, expand their skillsets, and build their networks.
“As a Black professional, I understand the impact that mentorship, representation, and opportunity can have on a young person’s journey, especially because these opportunities do not exist in many professional spaces,” says Ajuha Antoine, Learning & Organizational Development Specialist at TVO. “Over the last six summers, I’ve watched students build confidence, develop new skills, and broaden their view of what’s possible. Their talent and potential reinforce the importance of programs like this and the opportunities they create for the next generation of leaders.”
Learn how collaborations like this are shaping futures and creating impact directly from some of our BSSLP alumni here.
To explore more from this year’s BSSLP, visit the TVO.me LinkedIn page.
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ABOUT THE BLACK STUDENT SUMMER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Established in 2019, the Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) was designed to empower Black students by fostering agency, leadership, and civic engagement and is led by Toronto District School Board’s Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement. This innovative summer program for Black students in Grades 10 to 12 focuses on two main areas: Experiential Learning, through work placements, and Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR). This program underscores the organization’s commitment to supporting student achievement and developing future leaders.
ABOUT TVO MEDIA EDUCATION GROUP
TVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through our brands TVO Today, TVO Learn, TVO ILC and TVOkids, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. TVO is a registered charity funded in part by the Province of Ontario and supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. Visit TVO.me for more information.
Media Contact: media@tvo.org