Donielle F. has been an active participant in the Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) for the past three years, where she has consistently demonstrated leadership and a commitment to excellence. A recent graduate of Delphi Secondary Alternative School and the school’s 2025 valedictorian, Donielle has also been a dedicated member of the Black Girls’ Book Club with the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement. Her academic accolades include earning an entrance scholarship to the University of Toronto and receiving an award from the Alliance of Jamaican Alumni Associations. We spoke with Donielle about her journey and experiences with the BSSLP.
Why did you choose to join the Black Student Summer Leadership Program?
Initially, I was looking for a summer job back in Grade 10. And I figured why don’t I go to a summer job where I am surrounded by Black people as I wanted a community aspect as well. I also liked the importance of research and the possibility of learning skills that I didn't know existed.
I also wanted to continue the growth I had in the first year of the BSSLP, so I came back for a second year. And now I am back again for a third year, but this time as a Peer Mentor because I want to be able to give back to the program that truly changed my life. The growth I did over one summer was insane because I used to be very reserved.
It is great to see Black people across the diaspora come together, it is pretty empowering.
What are your academic and career goals?
I am going to the University of Toronto- Scarborough to study journalism. From there I want to go to law school to be a human rights lawyer.
How has the program helped you?
I want to emphasize that for me the program was a life changing experience. It instilled a sense of confidence in me that I didn't know I had. A voice I continue to build upon by speaking up and taking up space. During the program, I worked on my public speaking skills, professional skills, things that you learn while you are in a professional working space. I carry these learnings with me on a day-to-day basis.
Where have you had experiential learning placements and what did you learn?
My first year I was at TVO. There were 14 of us and we got to explore the different departments. That is where I solidified my love for journalism. It was also my first work experience.
Last year, I went to Proof Strategies, and it really reinforced the skills I learned in the workforce. It was different from TVO. We were more independent, I definitely learned time management, and had to get to meetings on time. I was also exposed to a different field and learned how it was interconnected to journalism. Through these two opportunities, I learned that there are different pathways as a journalist that I can pursue. Through Proof Strategies, I learned I can be there and that there is space for me in that market, as I saw Black people in different roles in the organization. In these businesses there is an effort to encourage more Black youth to pursue these jobs.
The experiential learning placements are so important as it opens doors for Black youth and shows us different career pathways. I learned about a pathway I didn't know existed.
What advice do you have for other students wanting to join the Black Student Summer Leadership Program?
One piece of advice I would give is to experience the program fully. This is a place where it is safe and you can speak up and participate in activities. Learn to take up space as you won’t be judged here. Also build connections with the staff and the other Junior Leaders. It is a family here. Make use of everything that they give you.
Image of Donielle at George Brown College for the 2025 BSSLP.