$20,000 Studio [Y] Fellowship for young people launches application round and recruitment roadshow

TORONTO, Feb. 9, 2015 – Today Studio Y, Ontario’s leadership and innovation academy for young people, opened applications for the program’s fully funded, 8-month Fellowship based at MaRS Discovery District in Toronto.

Each year, Studio Y selects 25 young people aged 18-29 to participate in the Fellowship. During the program, participants gain experience working on real-world challenges with partners from across society; build networks with peers, mentors, coaches and industry leaders; learn critical 21st century skills; and pursue innovative ideas for societal change. Each Fellow also receives a $20,000 stipend to cover living costs during the program.

Fellows work on projects with organizations such as the National Film Board, The Ministry of Children and Youth Services and Purpose Capital to launch initiatives focused on innovation in education, government, health and more.

“Studio Y reimagines the future of work and learning,” said Hamoon Ekhtiari, Director of Studio Y. “The Fellowship demonstrates what becomes possible when you give young people the skills and support they need to ask big questions, pursue their ideas, work on what matters to the world and do it all by collaborating with one another.”

Recent Fellows have gone on to launch innovative ventures, pursue further education and gain meaningful employment in a variety of sectors.

“I’m so appreciative of the opportunities Studio Y gave me to launch my passion projects and ultimately make more of an impact on the community than I would have been able to do managing full-time studies and ongoing employment,” said Melissa Kargiannakis, Studio Y Fellow and Founder Sci-FY: Science & Reading for Youth.

This winter, Studio Y staff are travelling across the province to answer questions about the Fellowship and application process at 31 campuses and community hubs in 17 communities. To date, over 220 young people have registered for information sessions, evidence that the program’s mission of investing in human potential to build a better future is resonating with young people throughout Ontario.

The timeline for this year’s Studio Y Fellowship is as follows:

  • February 9: Applications Open
  • March 16: Applications Close
  • September 8: Cohort III Begins
  • May 9, 2016: Cohort III Graduates

For more on the Fellowship and to apply, visit studioy.marsdd.com.

For more information, contact:
Lara Torvi
MaRS Discovery District
416.673.8100
ltorvi@marsdd.com