SCFS Link Up – Youth-Led Finale with Black Educators | May 1, 2026

On May 1, 2026, the Somali Centre for Family Services hosted the final Link Up of the season — a fully youth-led event designed and hosted by the SCFS Youth Ambassadors as part of the 2025–2026 Mentorship Program. This powerful evening highlighted Black youth leadership in action, from planning the program to curating the entire experience for the community. The event featured inspiring guest speakers Tolo Akin (OCSB Graduation Coach for Black Students) and Nabil Ahmed (OCDSB Student Success Coordinator, Black Youth Forum), alongside live performances by poet Malaika Urbani and rapper Mikyas. The night also included a special graduation ceremony and certificate presentation, celebrating the Youth Ambassadors and the impact they’ve made over the year. This video captures the speakers, performances, and graduation moments from the evening at Greenboro Library, as well as the energy of a room full of Black youth, educators, and community members coming together. If you’re a Black youth in Ottawa interested in mentorship, leadership, and future Link Up events, connect with the Somali Centre for Family Services to learn more about getting involved.