AACT is offering a year-long newcomer mentorship program. In phase 1 (May–December 2025), mentees will participate in workshops and community sessions led by supportive artist facilitators, along with 1:1 mentorship pairings. In phase 2 (February–May 2026), mentees will receive paid opportunities to lead their own community workshops and present their work in a group exhibition.

This program is open to visual artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences who identify as newcomers or refugees in Toronto. A newcomer is defined as an immigrant or refugee who has lived in Canada for less than seven years (Toronto Arts Council). Priority will be given to those who self-identify as Asian or belong to other TAC equity priority groups (https://torontoartscouncil.org/reports-and-resources/toronto-arts-council-equity-framework/equity-priority-groups).

Applicants can be students, arts workers, or individuals who are not currently working in the arts but are looking to re-enter the field. We are particularly interested in learning about your background and experiences since coming to Canada. Please send your portfolio or images of past work, as well as previous experience facilitating community initiatives. These experiences do not need to be in Canada. Applicants should also share what they hope to learn and achieve through the program.

The extended application deadline is Friday, March 14, 2025.

For questions or additional information, contact aact.canada@gmail.com.