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President | Président
Dear ProudPartner,
As we embark on a new year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and collaboration withStart Proud. Start Proud is more than just acronyms; it is about fostering a sense of belonging and maximizing the growth and productivity of 2SLGBTQIA+ talent in Canada’s workplaces.
Our students and young professionals are actively shaping the future of Canadian industry and innovation. It is an honour to lead this organization as it evolves to meet the diverse and dynamic needs of our community.
Despite the progress we have made, there is still much work to be done. Canada is not immune to hate—2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face discrimination, violence, and exclusion in many areas of life. Our students and young professionals often struggle to find role models, mentors, and allies in their chosen fields. They may feel isolated, discouraged, or unwelcome due to a lack of representation and celebration. This negatively impacts their mental health, academic performance, and career aspirations.
This is why we need you, now more than ever, to show them that they can start proud and work proud!
I invite you to join our team in saying “yes” to the 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders of tomorrow and to the economic benefits of inclusive workplaces. Together, we can demonstrate that there is room for them to grow and thrive in Canadian industry
Student Leader Appreciation is Start Proud’s dedicated recognition event, shining the spotlight on 2SLGBTQIA+ campus advocates who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, resilience, and community-building within their schools. This gathering commends their groundbreaking work while encouraging continued collaboration and success in shaping inclusive campus environments.
Student Leader Appreciation is Start Proud’s dedicated recognition event, shining the spotlight on 2SLGBTQIA+ campus advocates who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, resilience, and community-building within their schools. This gathering commends their groundbreaking work while encouraging continued collaboration and success in shaping inclusive campus environments.
Toronto Pride Kickoff is Start Proud’s high-energy celebration that marks the beginning of Pride Month in the city. Featuring vibrant entertainment, networking, and lively festivities, this event unites 2SLGBTQIA+ professionals and allies for a memorable evening of community engagement and shared pride.
Out on Bay Street is Start Proud’s signature conference and career fair, bridging 2SLGBTQIA+ students and recent graduates with top employers across diverse industries. Through empowering keynotes, panel discussions, and recruitment opportunities, participants expand their networks, gain valuable insights, and advance their professional journeys.
Out on Bay Street is Start Proud’s signature conference and career fair, bridging 2SLGBTQIA+ students and recent graduates with top employers across diverse industries. Through empowering keynotes, panel discussions, and recruitment opportunities, participants expand their networks, gain valuable insights, and advance their professional journeys.
The Mentorship & Leadership Incubator Program is Start Proud’s year-round initiative that connects emerging 2SLGBTQIA+ talent with seasoned professionals for meaningful guidance and career development. By cultivating personalized mentor-mentee relationships and exclusive leadership training, this program fuels individual growth and strengthens the entire community.
Skills-Development Workshops are Start Proud’s hands-on learning sessions aimed at enhancing personal and professional competencies. Covering topics like résumé building, networking strategies, and leadership techniques, these workshops empower 2SLGBTQIA+ students and young professionals to succeed in their chosen fields.
Skills-Development Workshops are Start Proud’s hands-on learning sessions aimed at enhancing personal and professional competencies. Covering topics like résumé building, networking strategies, and leadership techniques, these workshops empower 2SLGBTQIA+ students and young professionals to succeed in their chosen fields.
Industry Nights are Start Proud’s ongoing gatherings that bring together 2SLGBTQIA+ professionals, students, and allies for relaxed networking and meaningful connections. Held across major Canadian cities, these events offer a welcoming space to forge new partnerships, explore career opportunities, and celebrate shared experiences.
