About Us

The aim of A.F.I.Y.U. (Affiliation For Inspiring Youth Upliftment) is to tackle the issues that affect black youth in our communities.
Black boys today face many challenges that affect their self-image, their mental health and how they interact with others.  A.F.I.Y.U. is tackling these issues through mentorship from men who can guide and give them the support and influence they need.

Through mentorship and positive influences, young black boys are nurtured and directed toward becoming successful, contributing members of society. Young adults receive guidance through our program as an essential bridge to success while navigating life. We are focused on influencing those between the ages of 9 and 16, as we are aware that much of their mental development happens at this age and our goal is to point them in the right direction as early as possible.

We envision a world where these black boys are no longer looked at with unjust stereotypes and stigmas. Through our work, we want to create a society where they can grow to realize their full potential. The objective is to help them become thriving adults who contribute to society in a meaningful way.

We aim to create in them a value system of self-love, self-worth, respect and empathy toward others. Our hope is to equip youth with coping mechanisms to navigate life’s adversities. With your support, we can help guide these young minds down the right path and eventually watch them lead their communities proudly. 
Our Mission
To provide guidance and support through mentorship and essential resources focusing on black youth ages 9-16 years, aiding them in becoming successful and contributing members of society.

Our Vision
Build a society where children of colour do not have to fear the stereotypes that society and history have placed on them.

Our Goal
To teach young boys values that create love, self-acceptance, self-worth, respect and empathy. Training in these tenets with the support and guidance of positive mentors will produce successful men of the future.

Who we Serve
We serve youth in the Durham Region including Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington and Uxbridge as well as communities in East Scarborough.

Core Values

Respect ‐ At A.F.I.Y.U. Enterprise, respect, understanding and empathy are our core values by which we conduct our business both among ourselves and with our clients.
 
Integrity ‐ We abide by moral and ethical decision‐making practices in all that we do.
 
Diversity ‐ We value and respect the diversity of all cultural norms of our staff, board members and of those who use our services regardless of their racial and cultural backgrounds.
 
Excellence ‐ we strive for excellence in our business practices and in how we perform services.

Live Your Potential

Board

Andrea Thomas

(Chair)
Growing up in the inner city of Kingston, Jamaica has given her a passion for the plight of the “underprivileged.” She considers herself a social and community activist who has spent her time advocating for change to systems she sees as being unjust or unfair.

Being aware of the problems within the black community particularly with our youth, Andrea wanted to be a part of the solution and thus A.F.I.Y.U. Enterprise was conceptualized to fill some of the gaps that plague these youth. Passion and heart is what drives her and with her strong faith, she believes she is fulfilling a call.

Danielle Chang Gardner

R.S.W, B.S.W, M.S.W
Danielle is a Registered Social Worker and has acquired over 10 years of Social Work experience. During that time she has worked within the non-profit, education, and government sectors. Through this she has gained experience with mental health, child welfare, research, counselling, mediation, and consultation. Danielle has completed both a Bachelor and Masters of Social Work from York University and now specializes in Relationship and Couples' Counselling. By practicing from an anti-oppressive framework committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and implementing a solutions focused approach her aim is to enable her clients to realize their strengths and empower them to take the necessary steps towards health, happiness and successful relationships. Danielle brings her experience in Child Welfare to AFIYU and with her background and education she adds a wealth of experience to the roster.

Donna-Mae Griffiths

(Business Development)
Donna-Mae Griffiths and her family have been residents of the Durham Region for the past 32 years. She has a full-time career, loves to travel, spend time with her family, plan events and bring people together. Donna-Mae has been involved with youth outreach summer programs in past years. She brings to AFIYU lots of support and a great desire to serve in a capacity that builds up our community.

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