Starbucks is committed to empowering Indigenous youth with opportunities that build skills, foster confidence, and inspire leadership for the future. At the recent <a href="https://www.edo.ca/">Cando (Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers)</a> National Conference, Starbucks reaffirmed its commitment to Reconciliation by announcing a $50,000 grant from The Starbucks Foundation to the National Indigenous Economic Education Foundation, the charitable arm of Cando. This funding will support Cando’s Youth Connect and Indigenous Youth Coaching programs, which provide Indigenous youth across Canada with skills and resources essential for economic development and entrepreneurship.

core/paragraph

“At Starbucks, we feel a deep responsibility to invest in our communities, especially in our youth, who represent the future,” said Shannon Leisz, VP of Store Development at Starbucks Canada. “These programs provide Indigenous youth with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and imagine new possibilities for themselves and their communities. We’re excited to support that journey in partnership with Cando.”

The Cando conference is a pivotal event for Indigenous Economic Development Officers (EDOs) across Canada, fostering discussions and advancements in Indigenous economic development. This year marks Starbucks’ third consecutive attendance and second year sponsoring the <a href="https://www.edo.ca/conference/2024/national-youth-panel">National Youth Panel</a>. Through Cando, Starbucks has forged relationships with Indigenous leaders, including EDOs from First Nations communities, leading to impactful and lasting partnerships. Key initiatives include the opening of Starbucks’ first licensed store on ATR (Addition to Reserve) land with Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and a <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/starbucks-canada-and-we-wai-kai-nation-celebrate-new-licensed-store-opening/">new licensed Starbucks café and drive-thru operated by We Wai Kai Nation</a>. Each year, the conference enables Starbucks to listen, learn and expand these meaningful relationships, exploring new avenues for growth and collaboration together.

core/gallery

“We are committed to strengthening our understanding and building relationships with Indigenous communities,” Leisz shared. “This conference provides a unique opportunity to learn from Indigenous leaders and support their priorities. Every year, we come away with new insights and ideas on how we can work together to create meaningful impact.”

This commitment is furthered by the $50,000 grant from The Starbucks Foundation, which represents a significant step forward in supporting Indigenous youth through two Cando initiatives: Youth Connect and Indigenous Youth Coaching. Both programs provide opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect with motivational speakers, receive expert training, and develop skills year-round. Youth Connect offers monthly virtual sessions, allowing youth from various locations to participate in interactive discussions led by subject matter experts. The Indigenous Youth Coaching program provides one-on-one and small group coaching, guiding young people through the essentials of community-oriented business development and economic impact.

“Cando is pleased that the relationship with Starbucks has continued to grow over the last few years,” said Ray Wanuch, Executive Director of Cando. “Working together, Starbucks and Cando will help set the stage to enable Indigenous youth from communities across Canada to be able to connect with one another and with the subject matter experts that can help them set a course for their life journey and positively impact their future. That is work that is worth doing.”

The Youth Connect and Indigenous Youth Coaching programs were created to address specific needs voiced by Indigenous youth, including the importance of year-round connection and development opportunities. Starbucks recognizes that these programs are a space not only for celebration but also for addressing challenging topics, such as mental health and career progression. By offering Indigenous youth ongoing access to expert guidance, the Cando youth programs help participants build confidence and skills that extend well beyond the conference. Looking ahead, Starbucks hopes to engage partners (employees) and the internal <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/starbucks-partner-networks-help-create-a-culture-of-belonging/">Canada Indigenous Partner Network (CIPN)</a> to support Cando’s youth programs through mentorship opportunities and other avenues.

The Cando National Conference has been an instrumental part of Starbucks Canada’s journey with Indigenous communities. Starbucks is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Cando, supporting Indigenous culture, innovation, and resilience, and is excited to help create opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

Looking to the future, Starbucks sees this partnership with Cando as part of a long-term commitment to fostering business development and community relations. Earlier this year, Starbucks embarked on a journey with the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/starbucks-coffee-canadas-commitment-to-positive-and-progressive-indigenous-relations/">Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR)</a> to further positive and progressive Indigenous relations. Through PAIR, and relationships such as Cando, Starbucks aims to deepen partnerships, expand initiatives, and make a meaningful impact in terms of Reconciliation.

The Starbucks Foundation Deepens Commitment to Indigenous Youth Programs with $50,000 Grant at Cando National Conference - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2024/11/National-Youth-Panel-2024.jpg

Starbucks Canada

The Starbucks Foundation Deepens Commitment to Indigenous Youth Programs with $50,000 Grant at Cando National Conference

Starbucks is committed to empowering Indigenous youth with opportunities that build skills, foster confidence, and inspire leadership for the future. At the recent Cando (Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers) National Conference, Starbucks reaffirmed its commitment to Reconciliation by announcing a $50,000 grant from The Starbucks Foundation to the National Indigenous Economic Education […]

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/the-starbucks-foundation-deepens-commitment-to-indigenous-youth-programs-with-50000-grant-at-cando-national-conference/

twitter:card

twitter:description

twitter:image

twitter:title

Names, locations and other personal details have been changed or omitted to maintain partner (employee) privacy.

With over a decade as a Starbucks partner, store manager Sam has supported partners when they’ve needed it most and guided them through the total rewards Starbucks has to offer. A few years ago, Sam’s family was thrust into difficult circumstances that required Sam to not only lean on their benefits, but the Starbucks family they have in their community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Because of my family’s specific situation, Starbucks mental health benefits were essential for all of us to come through what was happening and move into a new chapter of our lives. I have learned a lot in the past couple of years about the importance of not only taking care of those around you, but also taking care of yourself.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Although the circumstances of Sam's mental health journey are private, they wanted to share their experience in hopes they might inspire or educate others to seek out the supports available to partners. For Sam, when they weren’t sure where to turn, they were able to call Starbucks EAP through TELUS Health to begin mapping out what they needed to do.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I started my mental health journey with our EAP when I didn’t know who else to call. From there I was able to access resources to get me to the next stage of self-care, used our $5,000 mental health benefit to its full extent, and I even took a leave of absence (LOA) to reconnect with my family when we needed it most.”&nbsp;

Sam also found care through supportive partners - from those who gifted their own resources, shared their stories, checked in on Sam and their family, and made it possible for them to take the time they needed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you talk to partners at the store, they understand you and know what you’re going through. It’s a real community. And it’s important to me that I share my mental health journey, to break any stigma and let partners know you’re not alone. It’s ok to not be ok - there are amazing benefits, resources and partners here to help no matter where you are in your journey.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Three months back from their LOA, Sam has a new outlook on life: “Looking back, I can say that I am so proud of my journey, for getting the help I needed and taking the time off for myself. Now I show up as my best self for myself, my family, partners and customers, and if I didn’t invest back in me, I’m not sure what my life would look like right now. When you are going through a mental health crisis, your mind can play tricks on you - I was really hard on myself and always questioning if I was doing a good job or not. Now with a clear head and a mental health plan in place, I know I am.”&nbsp;

About Starbucks Canada Mental Health Benefits

core/heading

As part of its&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/press/2023/starbucks-canada-raises-the-bar-with-industry-leading-benefits-and-additional-investments-to-further-enhance-the-retail-partner-experience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overall total rewards program</a>, Starbucks Canada offers all benefits-eligible partners – whether salaried or retail hourly who work a minimum of 20 hours per week:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

core/list

For more information about the benefits Starbucks Canada offers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.starbucksbenefits.com/en/home-ca-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starbucksbenefits.ca</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

How a Store Manager in Alberta found support through Starbucks benefits and community  - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2024/10/CUP_Fund9-1.jpg

How a Store Manager in Alberta found support through Starbucks benefits and community 

Names, locations and other personal details have been changed or omitted to maintain partner (employee) privacy. With over a decade as a Starbucks partner, store manager Sam has supported partners when they’ve needed it most and guided them through the total rewards Starbucks has to offer. A few years ago, Sam’s family was thrust into […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2024/10/CUP_Fund9-1-1024x683.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/how-a-store-manager-in-alberta-found-support-through-starbucks-benefits-and-community/

From our earliest days,&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/starbucks-canada-history-of-equity-inclusion-diversity/">inclusion and diversity have been at the heart of our company</a>, with a belief that we create experiences where everyone is welcome and respected.

Our Partner Networks,<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/starbucks-support-for-2slgbtqi-partners-and-communities/">&nbsp;starting with the Pride Alliance Partner network in 2014</a>, are partner-led groups that bring together people with shared identities and experiences, along with allies, to promote a culture of inclusion and contribute to the success of our partners and our business. They are thoughtful advocates and powerful voices to help promote change and understanding within the organization and beyond.

Starbucks Canada has 10 partner networks, that support partners across the country, each with unique goals that align with&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/mission/">Our Mission and Values</a>. Here they are, along with each network’s mission:

core/image

Starbucks Partner Networks help create a culture of belonging - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2024/08/cover-image.jpg

Starbucks Partner Networks help create a culture of belonging

From our earliest days,&nbsp;inclusion and diversity have been at the heart of our company, with a belief that we create experiences where everyone is welcome and respected. Our Partner Networks,&nbsp;starting with the Pride Alliance Partner network in 2014, are partner-led groups that bring together people with shared identities and experiences, along with allies, to promote […]

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2024/starbucks-partner-networks-help-create-a-culture-of-belonging/

 When asked to describe the vibrant palette he chose for his new collaboration with Starbucks, Tim Singleton says, “It’s my favorite color – all of them.” The Toronto-based artist and illustrator used electric shades of punchy cyan, magenta, vibrant pink, key lime green and citrusy orange and a mixture of iconography for the joyful collection. “I always like my work to put a smile on people’s faces.”&nbsp;

The new Starbucks drinkware collaboration with Singleton is arriving in Starbucks stores in the United States and Canada on May 30. The collection is the first in a series through the Starbucks Artist Collaboration Program, which celebrates and elevates the voices and stories of artists from around the world through uniquely curated merchandise in Starbucks stores.&nbsp;

“A lot of the work that I do focuses on queerness and how that has inspired me – both as a queer person and a gay man and how I relate to the world with that,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

starbucks-blocks/pull-quote-image

Singleton’s collection is a mish-mash of pop culture, queer culture and nostalgia with bold visuals and rainbow-bright colors. “It really is a story of self-expression and the unrelenting freedom to express yourself how you want, and that there isn’t really one right way to do it,” Singleton said.&nbsp;

Exclusively designed for Starbucks, the drinkware collection includes two 24-ounce (venti) plastic cold cups with glitter artwork and a 16-ounce stainless steel tumbler, while supplies last. Starbucks locations within Target stores will also have three additional Target-exclusive drinkware pieces.&nbsp;

This 24-ounce double-walled plastic cold cup has a bit of everything – colour, glitter, holofoil, flowers and a hand making a peace sign that holds a heart. The swirling design carries all the way to the straw, with a final swoop of cyan and magenta. “The peace sign is iconic and easy to interpret almost immediately,” Singleton said. “And at the end of the day, we all want just a little bit of peace.”

The rainbow gradient of this 24-ounce cold cup evokes a sunrise as it softly blends from cyan to magenta to citrus with an overlay of a graphic geometric grid treatment. “A beautiful metaphor for queerness is juxtaposing colors,” Singleton said. “Putting a colour beside another colour you wouldn’t think go together – and then it goes together beautifully.”

Singleton’s 16-ounce stainless steel tumbler features a hand holding a rainbow fan, while eyelashes, stars and other icons float through the scene. Singleton said, “I just love the connection of the fan to the queer scene – you see them at drag shows and at Pride events. When you hear that loud clap of the fan [by a group] in unison it speaks to a sense of joy and freedom and that sense of community you have when everyone is doing that in sync. It’s one of those beautiful, harmonious moments.”

Building a culture of inclusion and The Starbucks Foundation

Starbucks strives to create a culture of inclusion and is a proud ally of the the LGBTQIA2+ community, affirming every way people may choose to identify. Starbucks has a long history of supporting its LGBTQIA2+ partners and communities, from advocating&nbsp; to providing broader healthcare coverage for procedures and services that support gender affirmation.

Rooted in the Starbucks Mission to nurture human connection, The Starbucks Foundation, is one of the primary ways Starbucks uplifts communities from around the world. With more than $20 million invested into communities in the past year, The Starbucks Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in partnership with Starbucks partners (employees), licensee partners and others with a shared commitment and belief in stronger, more equitable communities. &nbsp;

Tim Singleton shares his inspiration for the new Starbucks drinkware collection arriving in Starbucks stores in the U.S. and Canada starting May 30. The collection is the first in a series through the Starbucks Artist Collaboration Program, which celebrates and elevates the voices and stories of artists from around the world through uniquely curated merchandise in Starbucks stores.

New line of Starbucks merchandise celebrates unique stories of artists around the world - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2023/05/SBX20230525-Starbucks-and-Tim-Singleton-Collaboration-feature-1.jpeg

New line of Starbucks merchandise celebrates unique stories of artists around the world

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2023/22485/

Since the beginning, Starbucks has been committed to creating a welcoming third place for our partners, customers and communities. From our early decision to offer healthcare to part-time workers to our commitment to support diverse hiring and equal opportunity for all — we have been dedicated to building a culture of inclusivity and belonging. Here are some of our milestones along the way:&nbsp;

Since the beginning, Starbucks has been committed to creating a welcoming third place for our partners, customers and communities. From our early decision to offer healthcare to part-time workers to our commitment to support diverse hiring and equal opportunity for all — we have been dedicated to building a culture of inclusivity and belonging.

Starbucks Canada History of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/06/Hero-Image-1024x498.png

Starbucks Canada History of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/06/Hero-Image.png

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/starbucks-canada-history-of-equity-inclusion-diversity/

National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) marks a day for us all to honour the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.&nbsp;At Starbucks Canada, we believe that taking the time to learn more about Indigenous Peoples, places and experiences is a step forward on the path to Reconciliation.

This <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/18366/">Indigenous History Month</a>, we have been inspired by the passion and continued engagement of our partners (employees) from coast-to-coast connecting with their Indigenous community members and allies to foster a community of belonging. Today, while we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, we also acknowledge the many partners proudly working to create a more inclusive future, representative of diverse identities and experiences.

An in-depth look at how one partner is advocating for Indigenous communities

A partner of seven years, Halifax-based District Manager Sara (she/her) has advocated for Indigenous communities for as long as she can remember. So, it came as no surprise when she joined the Indigenous Partner Network (IPN) when it was founded in 2020 to foster safe and supportive spaces for Indigenous partners and their allies. With over 500 members, partners like Sara regularly come together to connect, build allyship and continue to advocate for opportunities for and within Indigenous communities across the country.

core/pullquote

As part of the IPN, Sara has been able to strengthen ties to the local community while also addressing critical needs identified by local Indigenous community organizations. Sara also rallies her East coast community to come together for back-to-school backpack drives for Indigenous youth, food drives and so much more.

Uplifting communities in partnership with the Starbucks Foundation

One local organization Sara works with is the <a href="https://mymnfc.com/">Mi’Kmaw Native Friendship Centre</a>, a not-for-profit working to improve the lives of aboriginal peoples living in urban environments. Through social and cultural programs, the Mi'KMaw Friendship Centre supports the local Indigenous community with multiple initiatives including tackling food and housing needs.

Sara explained that the learnings go both ways, sharing how her team of partners has been able to get extra education like treaty education, which supports partner growth and move the march to Reconciliation forward. The organization also focuses on supporting Indigenous youths' personal and professional development—something Sara is personally invested in, through programming and resources like mock interviews, skill-building, resume-building and interview readiness workshops, mentorship conversations and beyond. It’s one of the many reasons she nominated the Centre to receive a Starbucks Neighbourhood Grant.

Neighbourhood Grants are investments that help build sustained local impact and inspire increased partner volunteerism with nonprofit organizations that work in our communities. Through this unique program, The Starbucks Foundation invites Starbucks partners – like Sara – to nominate a local organization that they are actively involved with in their community. 

“Through this Neighbourhood Grant and the IPN's long-lasting commitment to the betterment of Indigenous lives, we can be deliberate and intentional in providing resources, platforms and support wherever and whenever we can,” Sara shares. &nbsp;

By providing the support and resources to community-development focused organizations, the Starbucks Foundation’s Neighbourhood Grants program puts the power of a platform and room for advocacy in the hands of partners. It’s through this movement and with the work of our very own IPN that we can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, every day.

National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) marks a day for us all to honour the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Turning acknowledgement into action and advocacy for the Indigenous community  - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/06/Indigenous-Neighbourhood-Grant-newsroom-story-header-–-1.png

Turning acknowledgement into action and advocacy for the Indigenous community 

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/turning-acknowledgement-into-action-and-advocacy-for-the-indigenous-community/

Pride Month started during the Stonewall Uprising in June of 1969, to commemorate and celebrate LGBTQIA2+ communities, culture and activism around the world. As a company focused on building community, acceptance and inclusion, Starbucks Canada is celebrating Pride with every sip and every cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This summer, bold, Starbucks Refreshers aren’t the only colourful visuals you’ll see at Starbucks Canada stores. Customers will see many partners proudly wearing the bright and eye-catching 2022 Starbucks Canada Pride T-shirt, which has become an iconic symbol that the start of Pride celebrations is underway in stores across the country.&nbsp;

As part of the company’s annual Craft Your Pride contest, which began in 2019 and is coordinated through the Starbucks Canada Pride Network, this year’s winning design was created by Vancouver-based barista (employee), Rex (he/him) and was inspired by this year's theme of #InclusivityForAll. Showcasing how an intense ray of sunlight can produce a unique light prism, Rex brought the beauty of the rainbow to life with his design while sharing a vibrant world where everyone is there for each other and is full of Pride. 

"This year's (t-shirt) was yellow, which reminds me of the sun.” says Rex. “I noticed every ray of light during the time I was creating my design. I also knew that I wanted to layer in as many identities as possible—from the colours to the pronouns and languages on the Starbucks cups."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rex, who has always found art therapeutic, grew up in the Philippines and shares that before moving to Canada and finding community, he felt like he was wearing a mask to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I always knew that I was gay, and I knew that I didn't necessarily behave the way people expected me to, so fitting in was really hard for me,” he shares. “But when I came to Canada from the Philippines, I felt more comfortable being myself because I noticed that many around me were more open to the queer community,"&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a winner of the Starbucks Craft Your Pride T-shirt contest, Rex is able to select a charity to receive a donation from Starbuck and has selected QMUNITY, a BC-based resource centre that helps local queer, trans and Two-Spirit communities navigate their identities, meet their needs and helps them thrive.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I made this decision for my younger self, who felt alone and didn't have someone to turn to. I want to support a community that prides itself on being that pillar of support to those who need it."&nbsp;

Pride means something different for everyone. And for Rex, Pride means celebrating one's true self and the freedom to live life to the fullest, without letting anyone hold you back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As part of the company’s annual Craft Your Pride contest, which began in 2019 and is coordinated through the Starbucks Canada Pride Alliance, this year’s winning design was created by Vancouver-based barista (employee), Rex (he/him) and was inspired by this year's theme of #InclusivityForAll.

How we're wearing our Pride on our sleeves - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/06/MicrosoftTeams-image-11.jpg

How we&#8217;re wearing our Pride on our sleeves

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/06/MicrosoftTeams-image-11-1024x683.jpg

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/18358/

How we’re wearing our Pride on our sleeves

How Starbucks partners are fostering a sense of belonging through their differences

The month of May marks the start of Asian Heritage Month in Canada, making it the perfect time to learn more about the many achievements and contributions of Asian communities across the country and just how they have made Canada feel more like home. It is a call to action for all of us to come together to use our differences and unique experiences to create and foster community and belonging. In doing this, we can continue to create welcoming spaces, stop anti-Asian racism and discrimination, and truly celebrate each other.

This May, Starbucks Canada is proud to honour Asian Heritage Month and celebrate its partners (employees), who uplift their communities and proudly represent diverse identities and experiences.

core/separator

Starbucks partners share how they've embraced their differences and the differences of others to strengthen community and connection

Starbucks partners embrace opportunities to be as inclusive as possible, and this means recognizing the many identities within Pan-Asian communities and continually educating ourselves. Born out of a desire to foster meaningful connections between and elevate Pan-Asian partners and allies, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2021/behind-the-green-apron-meet-the-co-chairs-of-the-starbucks-canada-pan-asian-partner-network-who-want-to-change-the-world/">Starbucks partners and Canada Pan-Asian Partner Network</a> members share how their differences bring them together as one community of partners.

Jam left the Philippines in 2004 to work as a domestic helper in Hong Kong before making her way to Canada in 2009 under the Live-In Caregiver Program for childcare—the easiest path to Canada. Leaving home alone in hopes of planting roots elsewhere is a task that requires courage, and that is something Jam needed to tap into to embark on this new journey to a brighter future. "Filipinos take pride in family; it's always family first. I was so homesick for years. Leaving my home country was the hardest and the scariest thing I've ever done, but it is the best decision I ever made for myself", she shared. "Moving allowed me to start a new life and be the person I want to be."

"What I love about Starbucks is that it feels like home. Before I joined Starbucks, I didn't feel like I belonged anywhere. My Starbucks community made me feel like I matter and that I belong. No matter who I want to be." — Jam, store manager

Summer came to Canada about a decade ago to gain work experience and learn English, and she decided to stay after she fell in love with just how much room there was to be herself. In Summer's case, the diversity of her surrounding community and the differentiating factors of all the cultures she was exposed to were the keys to her feeling like she belonged. "Here, we have many different people from different backgrounds, so I feel free from the pressure of following the majority in the society. Here, we embrace and celebrate our differences", she shared. Summer's appreciation for her Korean roots has grown deeper through this freedom.

"After I moved here alone, I had a hard time finding a place where I belonged, but since I started working at Starbucks, I've felt that I belong to something bigger. It's bigger than just a workplace. Starbucks gave me friends and mentors. And now, I want to create a store environment where I can provide that home to partners who moved here from overseas." - Summer, store manager

Being exposed to other cultures and becoming aware of his differences is what ties the appreciation of life closer to Jason's world and way of living. Having been raised in the Taiyuan region of northern China, he first experienced foreign cultures during a junior high field trip to Japan. This very eye-opening experience inspired him to explore other countries and cultures. "Getting to know different cultures helped me open myself up to making lots of friends from different backgrounds with different perspectives, cultures and practices," Jason shared about his deep sense of respect and value for folks from diverse backgrounds.

"Racism and discrimination still happen, and we have a long way to go as a society. But at Starbucks, I always feel like I belong and that my voice, no matter what language I choose to speak in, will be heard. Over the last few years, I've trained my new partners with this in mind: No matter what background we come from, we will always have a safe and welcoming space to share our unique stories and connect over a cup of coffee." — Jason, assistant store manager

Born and raised in Mauritius before successfully pursuing a bachelor's in Business Management in Melbourne, Camben made his way to Canada for love—to be closer to his then-girlfriend, now wife. Living in different countries allowed Camben to learn about and embrace diverse cultures, which empowered him to experience what it's like to be a part of a new community that they were able to form. "It also gave me cultural awareness and acceptance, which helped me break down cultural barriers while interacting with people of different backgrounds," he shared.

"What I love about Starbucks is being able to work in an environment where diversity is top of mind and the sense of belonging that comes with that. I feel supported and mentored, and empowered to actively live by the mission and values to be a better person." — Camben, store manager

With community at the center of all that he does, meet Kal, the Starbucks partner known for his commitment to uplifting those around him

From a very young age, Kal—a Starbucks partner of Filipino and Spanish descent—moved around quite a bit, from the Philippines and Japan to Korea and Vancouver, before eventually landing in Calgary. Though these moves meant that he had to restart a few times, he sees his exposure to various cultures as the silver lining he's grateful for. "We've been around the block, but I've been exposed to many cultures, and for that, I'm thankful."

His mother successfully planted new roots for her family through a program similar to what is offered via <a href="https://ecssen.ca/">ECSSEN Career School</a> (ECSSEN), so he's always had a passion for community empowerment initiatives. He spent much of his youth tutoring and volunteering, some of which was done through an ECSSEN program alongside his family.

His passion and awareness of ECSSEN were reignited when he found out that some of his store's <a href="https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2021/starbucks-national-foodshare-expansion/">FoodShare</a> donations were going to ECSSEN. <a href="https://ecssen.ca/">ECSSEN</a> is a Canadian non-profit organization that helps immigrants and youth gain work experience and skills through workplace programs and partners with agencies to help immigrants adjust to society through volunteering and counselling. Kal believes in the organization so much that he's even referred a new partner from his store location to ECSSEN's programs. As a member of Starbucks Canada's Pan-Asian Partner Network, Kal has advocated for diverse, inclusive, accessible, and equitable environments and spaces in and out of the shop. So, when the opportunity arose, he naturally began his effort to secure a Neighbourhood Grant for ECSSEN.

<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/the-starbucks-foundation/">The Starbucks Foundation's</a> Neighbourhood Grants program supports grassroots, community-led charities through catalytic investments in the form of small grants that range from $1,000 to $10,000. Through this unique program, The Starbucks Foundation invites Starbucks partners to nominate a local organization in their community to help build sustained local impact and inspire increased partner engagement with their communities. Since 2019, Starbucks partners have helped more than 3,500 organizations across North America, amounting to more than $7.5 million in grants.

Why ECSSEN was a natural fit

"When we think of our Mission and Values as Starbucks partners, ECSSEN aligns most with my understanding of these and my personal beliefs," he shared, speaking to how natural it felt to help those who helped him and his family in the past. Knowing first-hand the challenges that often come with adjusting to a new space, Kal saw himself in the many people that ECSSEN helps and uplifts. He's prioritized supporting critical organizations that ensure everyone can feel a sense of belonging. "I always appreciate things that can take someone from alienation and isolation to acceptance," he shared.

Beyond the Neighbourhood Grant that he secured, Kal also makes personal donations whenever he can and is looking to get more involved with ECSSEN's initiatives again now that he's done school. "After graduating and being done with school forever [haha], I want to focus on advocating for diversity, representation and inclusion through my work. I started a production company with my close friends. We're starting slowly, focusing on our local community northwest of Calgary, but I want to expand. Maybe I can even produce something for Starbucks one day".

Celebrating community, diversity and belonging during Asian Heritage Month - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/04/PA066_AANHPIHeritageMonth_FY22_app-card_1440x880_031422.jpg

Celebrating community, diversity and belonging during Asian Heritage Month

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/17946/

In February, Starbucks Canada is proud to honour Black History Month and celebrate Black excellence and the many ways its partners (employees) and communities demonstrate it every day.

Rudo, store manager

"My journey is one of hard work and striving to achieve the impossible. I am bold, brave, and comfortable in a world that has different standards of beauty and where acceptance is a rare commodity. I’m proud to share my culture through love, song, dance, and a sense of community where everyone feels like a family. I reignite my self-confidence by knowing that I am a role model for others that would never be able to have the grace to be authentic and true to themselves. I celebrate those that welcome me and focus on the amazing humans that just love on everyone. I know the light within me will uplift, encourage, and touch many and I am meant for greater things. I am a proud Black woman.

Chris, district manager

“I've been a partner for 21 years and this year I had the privilege to become the A220 Black Partner Network (BPN) advocate lead. Reigniting and celebrating Black Excellence means to me that we pay homage and respect to the trailblazers who've made significant contributions within the Black community, the world and in culture.&nbsp; During the time of Black History Month, I take the time to listen, educate myself and peers, and share stories with my team.&nbsp; I believe it's vitally important to create an inclusive space and community for Black Partners. The BPN has become that space. They continue to advocate and celebrate Black Excellence every day. My goal is to continue to promote equity, education, allyship, partner development and creating an environment for partners to be their authentic selves.”

Nicole, barista

“I believe for a lot of young Black people, there is a high expectation to excel in every area of life such as work, school etc. I think the need to disprove stereotypes and live up to the standard of Black Excellence drives a lot of us to take on so much in our lives, which can lead to burnout. I know I’ve experienced this in high school, and again in university which led to my time off in school for the sake of my mental health. And so, I’d love for other young Black people to know, Black Excellence doesn’t necessarily mean taking on the weight of the world while continuing to be successful but accepting that your existence is enough to be excellent. Despite the odds of systemic racism and being such a minority in Canada, we can and will thrive. I believe, Black Excellence shouldn’t exist simply in the doing of Black people but in the being of Black people. You are enough!”

Brittany, store manager

This Black History Month, I am challenging myself to share more, to be present, and to embrace more of my accomplishments. Black Excellence is about connecting our diversities and our experiences. It is about spending the time to figure out what fills us up, and what enriches our lives. I work hard to show up for myself, create new experiences, and find ways to connect with other people.&nbsp; For me, I am living Black Excellence when I am actively working towards achieving my goals, when I am involved with projects, I am excited about, and when I take on opportunities that allow me to grow.

Alicia, shift supervisor

“I was born and raised in Toronto, ON in a Guyanese/Indian household. To me, Black Excellence for everyone looks a little different, but what I think remains the same is being unapologetically yourself. My journey to owning my Blackness took a hitch in the road after a DNA test when I was 18 turned out I was 47% Indian and 53% a mix of African descents. These results shouldn’t have technically changed anything for me: I still looked Black, grew up Black, and loved being Black, but somehow, I now doubted myself. I felt as though I was a fraud and that I could no longer identify myself as Black. None of that was true because being Black and owning everything excellent about it is not just your origins, but the sense of community and culture that comes with it. Understanding the trials and tribulations, but also celebrating the beauty and uniqueness. Remembering this helps me to wake up every day and be proud of who I am.”

Starbucks Canada is proud to honour Black History Month and celebrate Black excellence and the many ways its partners (employees) and communities demonstrate it every day.

In their own words: Starbucks partners on what owning and celebrating everyday Black excellence means to them - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/02/featureimage2.png

In their own words: Starbucks partners on what owning and celebrating everyday Black excellence means to them

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2022/02/featureimage2-1024x498.png

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2022/in-their-own-words-starbucks-partners-on-what-owning-and-celebrating-everyday-black-excellence-means-to-them/

In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we hear from Starbucks partners and reflect on the tragic legacy of residential schools and commit to truth and reconciliation through education, awareness and action.

Giving Space, Sharing Stories

How the Starbucks Indigenous Partner Network is turning acknowledgement into action.

Starbucks partners, Sara Hunter and Jessica Novak, had a vision: to foster a safe, supportive space where Indigenous partners (employees) and their allies could share their truth and educate one another about Indigenous experiences in Canada. In the Fall of 2020, the first ever Indigenous Partner Network (IPN) was born at Starbucks Canada, and today the network has grown to more than 500 members.&nbsp;

Sara Hunter is Ojibway and a member of the Sheguiandah First Nation on Manatoulin Island in Ontario. Her family are survivors of residential schools, and she felt first-hand the damage that experience has inflicted on their community.

“I grew up not really immersed in Indigenous culture. I don’t speak the language. I only heard my grandmother speak a few words,” Sara shares. “It wasn’t until my teen years when I remember attending my first traditional powwow.”

Recognizing this gap inspired her to not only deepen her own connection with her culture, but help other Indigenous partners connect with — and learn from — one another through the IPN.

As an ancestor of settlers, Jessica Novak believes that the IPN represents just one platform for allyship with Indigenous peoples. &nbsp;For Jessica, participating in the IPN is a clear response to the <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/british-columbians-our-governments/indigenous-people/aboriginal-peoples-documents/calls_to_action_english2.pdf">92nd Call to Action put forth by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada</a>. It calls on businesses to build meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples, providing equal access while educating all staff on their history.

“As a corporation, as leaders in a lot of spaces, how do the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission show up here?” Jessica asks, "Where does it live? How do we build relationships with Indigenous communities?” &nbsp;

With the most recent discoveries of hundreds of unmarked graves at residential schools in communities across Canada and the urgent calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the IPN's mission has become even more critical and creating opportunities for acknowledgement has been the focus of Sara and Jessica’s efforts since founding the network. &nbsp;

This summer, the network hosted sharing circles, giving space for partners to speak and listen to one another, and also participated in meaningful discussions to help partners learn and deepen their understanding of Indigenous history, some of the key issues impacting Indigenous peoples today and&nbsp; Truth and Reconciliation. The network also proudly celebrated Indigenous culture throughout National Indigenous History Month and International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

The two women are committed to using the work of the past year as a foundation as they look ahead to the future.

“We’re now moving into that space of building relationships,” says Sara. “So how can we use what we learned in this last year and really put it into action through volunteering, through listening, through growing into new communities?”

&nbsp;It’s one of the reasons why the IPN selected the <a href="https://www.irsss.ca/">Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society</a> (IRSSS) as the recipient of a $20,000 donation from Starbucks Canada in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

“Our first year of existence was really all about education,” Sara reflects. “How can we talk about history, but also celebrate the great things happening in the culture itself: the teachings, protecting our environment and water, and at the same time giving acknowledgement to the truth of what has happened”

The IRSSS provides essential services to Residential School Survivors, their families, and those dealing with Intergenerational traumas. Their focus is on delivering care, not only physically but mentally and spiritually, to affected communities.

“It was a simple choice for us,” Jessica explains, “It’s the most direct way for any donation to have an impact on the people traumatized by residential schools.”

As she looks ahead to building new relationships and putting what they learned from one another into action, Sara hasn’t lost sight of her original vision: “We have created a space where people can feel safe to share their truth. But there are still a lot of partners out there who may not know about us yet or haven’t had a chance to share their story. So we’re going to continue open up doors for people to do that.”

For the Next Seven Generations

How mentorship can move us forward to Truth and Reconciliation

Stephanie Yoshida denies that she is an educator, but when she shares her journey, one cannot help but learn.

Stephanie is the child of an Indian Day School survivor and the grandchild of residential school survivors. The revelations this year of unmarked graves at a school in her home province of British Columbia compelled her to give voice to this generational pain through poetry. Her poem “The Tears that I Shed, are Their Cries for Justice”, published at the end of this article, was shared with Starbucks partners in the summer, inspiring many across the country to share their own experiences and allyship. But she sees her poetry as simply a step along a personal process of understanding, one among countless others on the path toward Truth and Reconciliation.

“Truth and Reconciliation is a process,” Stephanie explains when reflecting on the legacy of the schools and the path ahead. ”First finding and acknowledging the truth&nbsp;of the&nbsp;history of Indigenous peoples,&nbsp;the reality of residential schools, and truly hearing the survivors&nbsp;and the impacts that this has had in their lives. For seven generations, they were&nbsp;taught that their way of life&nbsp;as Indigenous people was&nbsp;inferior, at the same time non-Indigenous&nbsp;children in schools were taught the same thing about Indigenous peoples.” “Limited access to opportunities, networks and mentors is an overwhelming barrier faced by Indigenous youth today, which only widens the gaps created by residential schools,” says Tanya Tourangeau, Indigenous Engagement Lead at <a href="http://www.mentoringcanada.ca/">MENTOR Canada</a>, an organization committed to expanding access to mentoring for youth in Canada.&nbsp; She knows that mentorship not only has the potential to help move our country towards Truth and Reconciliation but can be a transformative opportunity for the economy.

“Indigenous youth are the largest, youngest, fastest growing population in Canada,” she shares. “If our Indigenous youth were graduating, were entering the workforce, completing post-secondary education, becoming business owners, becoming landowners at the same rate as non-Indigenous people, we could raise the GDP of Canada today by 100 billion dollars.”

Tanya is also the child of a survivor, and her path has been shaped by that experience.

“Early on in life, it was apparent to me that our people needed help. They needed assistance, they needed capacity-building. That brought me to MENTOR Canada. Mentorship has always been informally a part of being an Indigenous Person. It’s part of that belief in taking care of the next seven generations,” she says.

On September 28th, Stephanie will join Tanya and Indigenous youth and allies across Canada to share experiences and mentorship. The <a href="https://www.mentoringcanada.ca/en/power-of-mentoring/focused-connections-virtual-career-mentoring-indigenous-young-leaders">Power of Mentoring event</a>, facilitated by MENTOR Canada in collaboration with Starbucks Canada and Deloitte, is focused on expanding networks, enhancing skills and increasing access to employment. These events are part of an urgent movement that spans all facets of Canadian society. For organizations like Starbucks Canada, they represent just one response to <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/british-columbians-our-governments/indigenous-people/aboriginal-peoples-documents/calls_to_action_english2.pdf">the 94 Calls to Action provided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.</a>

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day in honour of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad who was one of tens of thousands of Indigenous children stolen from their families and placed into a system designed to destroy what made them who they are.

For Stephanie and so many other children of survivors, there is still much work to be done to heal.&nbsp;

“I ask myself,&nbsp;‘How&nbsp;can we&nbsp;take the&nbsp;necessary steps forward to&nbsp;reconcile the past and work together&nbsp;as a nation to&nbsp;build a brighter future for the next generations?’&nbsp;In that lies the answer: the next generations,” she says. &nbsp;“It will take generations for&nbsp;us to truly work together to build a path forward, and&nbsp;it is through education that our healing will begin.”

In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we hear from Starbucks partners and reflect on the tragic legacy of residential schools and commit to truth and reconciliation through education, awareness and action.

Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2021/09/OrangeShirttogether.jpg

Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2021/placeholder-for-orange-shirt-day-web-app-link/

When you visit your local Starbucks this summer, you may notice your barista wearing a specially designed vibrant t-shirt in celebration of Pride.

For the past 3 years ,the Starbucks Canada Pride Network, one of Starbucks oldest and largest partner networks, made up of hundreds of members of the LGBTQ2+ community and their allies, commissions a t-shirt design contest, giving partners (employees) the opportunity to design a t-shirt in celebration of Pride at Starbucks.

This year’s design was created by Starbucks partner Leigh-Anne from Nova Scotia. Leigh-Anne’s design was selected by the Starbucks Canada Pride committee which received over 100 creative submissions from across the country.

In addition to being a 4-year Starbucks partner, Leigh-Anne is an artist, designer and mom of three.

“Creativity is a passion of mine and I always love a t-shirt design challenge,” says Leigh-Anne who found inspiration for the design through the pandemic.

The design, titled "Pride, Far &amp; Wide", features colourful paper planes with a dash of Rewards Stars, surrounding a Starbucks cup.

core/more

“I wanted to create a design that felt like a fun and colourful celebration of Pride, but still acknowledged the fact that we are in a pandemic, and last year most in person celebrations had to be cancelled. I came up with the idea of using the paper plane as a symbol of virtual connection, as it's a common icon used when sending an email or text message. It also represents the fact that most people have been isolated and only able to dream of travelling again someday to celebrate together,” Leigh-Anne says.

“Starbucks has managed to continually connect and uplift people through this past year even if it was simply through a virtual coffee date with friends and loved ones. I included a plane for every colour of the Pride rainbow and I think the design has a hopeful and playful spirit.”

When asked how it feels knowing that partners across the country will be wearing her design, Leigh-Anne says, "It's so exciting to see partners sharing pictures and videos on social media, celebrating Pride in my shirt design! My fellow partners here in Nova Scotia have been wearing the shirts to work and it is wild to see them in real life. I myself usually wear mostly black and grey, but I will be going out of my comfort zone this month to wear that bright orange T!”

On why it was important to take part in the contest, Leigh-Anne says “I would always want my fellow partners and my own kids to feel loved, accepted and valued for exactly who they are.”

As another motivation for entering the contest, Leigh-Anne described that the winning designer was able to select a local charity to receive a small donation. She’s selected a local youth organization in her hometown of Halifax that strives to make the province a happier, healthier and safer place for&nbsp;LGBTQ+ youth by providing support and resources.

Join us as we celebrate the LGBTQ2+ community, hear partners’ (employees) stories of connection and learn how to be an ally.

Starbucks Pride: How one Starbucks partner’s t-shirt design is connecting partners with “Pride, Far &amp; Wide” - Starbucks Canada

https://stories.starbucks.com/uploads/sites/9/2021/06/LeighAnne-Back-of-Shirt-743x1024.jpg

Starbucks Pride: How one Starbucks partner’s t-shirt design is connecting partners with “Pride, Far &amp; Wide”

https://stories.starbucks.ca/en-ca/stories/2021/starbucks-pride-how-one-starbucks-partners-t-shirt-design-is-connecting-partners-with-pride-far-wide/

Inclusion