IGNITE is dedicated to creating a post-secondary environment that celebrates diversity and fosters safe and inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ students at Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber.
We firmly believe that promoting equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB) is not just a goal but an essential foundation of our advocacy priorities. Through initiatives like the Pride Scholarship and our partnership with the LGBTQ Resource Centre, we are committed to ensuring that 2SLGBTQ+ students feel seen, heard, and valued in all aspects of campus life.
IGNITE recognizes the unique challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community, including social stigma and financial insecurity. That’s why, every summer, we grant the IGNITE Pride Scholarship to five students.
IGNITE aims to alleviate the financial difficulties that disproportionately affect this community and promote a learning environment of equality and inclusivity.
Applications for the 2024 scholarship are open until July 3rd.
“To me, it [the scholarship] means encouragement. I often have doubts that I am not on the right path, or that there are other things I could be doing and putting my energy towards but, being a recipient of this award solidifies that I am actually doing what is right for me.”
Zee Seon, 2023 recipient of the IGNITE Pride Scholarship
PRIDE ACTIVITES
IGNITE collaborates closely with the LGBTQ+ Resource Centre, providing support and participating in various events throughout the year. We are proud to contribute to Humber’s Pride parade, drag queen story hour, the annual Pride flag-raising ceremony, and more.
REAL TALKS
Hear it from the experts themselves! At IGNITE Real Talks, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community led discussions focused on the importance of equality and how students can continually celebrate pride.
Margaret Cho
In our exclusive interview, Cho talked about her hopes for more on-screen projects that tell queer Asian stories because they deserve to be told, and not as a token for representation.
Bretman Rock
The influencer who rose to fame on YouTube sat down with IGNITE to answer questions from students about being in the virtual spotlight. Rock also advised young creators and shared his experiences in the digital world at the intersection of both queer and Filipino identities.
Tyler Oakley
The YouTube sensation is not only known for his success on the platform, but he is also a prominent activist for LGBTQIA+ rights. Oakley talked about his career path, advocacy, and mental health.
Antoni Porowski
Besides sauces and spices, Porowski is a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. He shared with students the importance of not being judgmental, having an open heart, and not making assumptions about people.
RESOURCES
Health Services
Student Wellness & Accessibility Centre
The Student Wellness and Accessibility Centre offers free, private and confidential counselling services to all enrolled students, led by professional clinicians.
Hassle Free Clinic
The Hassle Free Clinic offers free medical and counselling services in many areas of sexual health. They offer anonymous HIV tests and numerous services to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Rainbow Health Ontario
Rainbow Health Ontario is designed to create a healthcare system that better serves the LGTBQIA+ community.
Counselling Services
Youthline
LGBT YouthLine is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth-led organization that supports the experiences of youth across Ontario. They provide anonymous peer support and resources.
Pride & Prejudice for 2SLGBTQ+ Youth
Central Toronto Youth Services believes in building and empowering the resiliency of young people to strengthen their mental wellbeing.
ACT
ACT provides free, confidential counselling about HIV, sexual and mental health and substance abuse.
Community Organizations
The 519
The 519 is committed to the health, happiness and participation of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. They strive to make a difference in people’s lives while working to promote inclusion and respect.
Friends of Ruby
Friends of Ruby is dedicated to the well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth through mental health services, social services and housing. Their approach involves mind, body and community.
2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations
2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations support 2-Spirit peoples and First Nations, Métis and Inuit members who are at risk of or living with HIV, hepatitis C and related co-infections.
Financial Support & Scholarships
IGNITE Bursaries/FRP
IGNITE provides the Financial Relief Program for full-time students, which covers emergencies such as imminent homelessness, physical and health issues, childcare problems, and abuse.
The Bill 7 Award
The Bill 7 Award is a scholarship for individuals with demonstrated financial need after accessing available public financial support.
LOUD Scholarships
The LOUD Foundation invests in future leaders of the Canadian 2SLGBTQ+ community.
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