New study explores how mentoring supports racialized young adults’ capacity for social change

October 29, 2026

By SRDC-SRSA

Research co-authored by SRDC identifies five ways mentors can support identity, belonging, and young adults’ ability to navigate and challenge systemic barriers.

The Social Research and Demonstration Corporation (SRDC) is pleased to share a new peer-reviewed article examining how mentoring can support Black, Indigenous, and other racialized young adults in Canada.

Published in Youth on October 23, 2026, Pathways to Social Change: Mentoring to Foster BIPOC Young Adults’ Social Capital and Sociopolitical Development was co-authored by SRDC researchers Jessica McQuiggan and Jennifer Rae, alongside colleagues from Mentor Canada and other collaborators.

The study examines both mentoring relationships that develop naturally through everyday connections and those established through formal programs. It draws on a survey of 3,110 young adults aged 18 to 30, with analysis focused on racialized respondents, and interviews with 23 racialized young adults and 13 people with experience providing mentoring.

The findings identify five ways mentors can support young adults:

• Providing emotional support and helping them cope with discrimination.
• Supporting identity exploration and development.
• Encouraging autonomy, decision-making, and self-advocacy.
• Expanding access to information, relationships, and opportunities.
• Creating space to reflect critically on social issues and take action.

The research highlights the potential for mentoring to support young adults beyond education and employment goals. Relationships that affirm young people’s identities, recognize their strengths, and support their agency can also help them pursue change in their communities.

For mentoring organizations and practitioners, the findings offer practical insights into creating relationships and programs that support wellbeing, belonging, and meaningful participation in social change.

Read the full journal article →

The article is available in English only.

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