Dixon Hall Celebrates Youth Incubator and Next Steps Graduates

Dixon Hall Celebrates Youth Incubator and Next Steps Graduates

On Friday, November 29, 2024, Dixon Hall proudly hosted a graduation ceremony at its newly renovated Community Hub and Training Centre at 58 Sumach Street to honour the achievements of participants from its Youth Incubator and Next Step programs.  

The Next Step program, funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development (MLITSD), and the Youth Incubator program, funded by the City of Toronto and RBC, played a significant role in empowering youth and adults alike through practical training and skill-building opportunities. 

This milestone event brought together key community stakeholders, leaders, and supporters to celebrate the impact of these transformative programs and the accomplishments of their graduates. 

The ceremony was attended by MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, a staunch supporter of Dixon Hall and its mission, alongside representatives from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), who have generously funded the infrastructure and capacity at this Dixon Hall location.  

Joining them were Mitchell Cohen, President of Daniels Corporation, representatives from the City of Toronto, RBC, George Brown College, and members of Dixon Hall’s leadership team. 

In her opening remarks, Fulya Vekiloglu, Director, Employment and Settlement Services, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the event’s attendees and supporters, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that made the programs successful. She highlighted how the Youth Incubator and Next Step programs equip participants with critical skills and opportunities to overcome barriers, fostering resilience and self-reliance. 

Recognizing Graduates and Their Journey 

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the graduates, who beamed with pride as they crossed the stage to thunderous applause. These programs provided hands-on training in professional and life skills, preparing participants for meaningful employment and further education. Many graduates shared their transformative journeys, describing the challenges they overcame and the newfound confidence they gained through Dixon Hall’s support. 

One graduate from the Next Step program shared their story: “I never thought I would be here today, but this program gave me the tools, the mentorship, and the belief that I could succeed. Thank you to everyone who made this possible.” 

Food as a Reflection of Hard Work and Talent 

One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was the chance for the graduates to showcase their culinary talents. Guests were treated to a delicious spread of food, all prepared by the graduates themselves. This provided a tangible reflection of their hard work, dedication, and the invaluable skills they had gained throughout the program. The meal was not only a delight for the senses but also a testament to the graduates’ transformation over the course of their training.  

A Collaborative Effort 

The event also served as a platform to acknowledge the collaborative effort behind these programs. The Ontario Trillium Foundation played a pivotal role in funding the kitchen renovation at Dixon Hall’s Community Hub, as well as providing additional funding through the resilient community grant to build capacity and infrastructure, enabling the hands-on culinary training provided in both programs. Mitchell Cohen of Daniels Corporation praised Dixon Hall for its unwavering commitment to community building and expressed pride in being part of the journey. 

Representatives from RBC and George Brown College also lauded the programs’ impact, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in creating opportunities for marginalized communities. 

Looking Ahead 

As the event concluded, there was a collective sense of hope and excitement for the future. The graduates of the hospitality and culinary programs are now equipped with the skills they need to enter the workforce with confidence, and they have the full support of their community behind them. With ongoing partnerships like those with MLITSD, City of Toronto, RBC, George Brown College, and Labour Education Centre, Dixon Hall is poised to continue creating opportunities for individuals to improve their lives and contribute to the economy in meaningful ways. 

The ceremony was a reminder of the power of education, community collaboration, and the incredible potential of every individual when given the tools and support to succeed. Dixon Hall’s ongoing commitment to uplifting communities through such initiatives is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

About Dixon Hall 

Dixon Hall is a multi-service agency located in Toronto, committed to addressing poverty, isolation, and inequity through diverse programs and services. By collaborating with community partners and supporters, Dixon Hall continues to create opportunities for individuals and families to build better lives. 

For more information on how to support Dixon Hall or learn about its programs, visit Dixon Hall’s website at www.dixonhall.org