PowerUp! is for Black-identifying children and youth who are in care or actively involved with an Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agency or a Children’s Aid Society in Ontario. Youth participants must be connected to a worker at a CAS or Indigenous agency. PowerUp! programming is geared for youth aged 13 to 21. Agency staff supporting youth attendees can also attend.

PowerUp! is the first Canadian event specifically designed for Black youth in care to gather and feel empowered, seen, celebrated, and uplifted by their own community, elders, and workers. It is an opportunity to foster peer relationships and to strengthen connections to culture and identity in a fun, safe, and affirming way as per CYFSA requirements. To learn more about programming during the event, listen to OVOV manager Keishia Facey here or follow OVOV on social media (Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook) to stay up to date with all conference updates.

PowerUp! 2024 will be taking place at the:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Toronto Airport West
5444 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4W 2L2

PowerUp! is free for all participants! Youth attendees will also receive a swag bag. Snacks and lunch will be provided as well.

Staff should register themselves and youth using the registration link here. 

Note: Registration is required for all attendees.

Staff should register youth by February 23 to guarantee their spot.

Unfortunately, no. Once the registration period for PowerUp! closes, we are unable to accept any additional registrations. We encourage all participants and their supporters to adhere to the specified registration timelines to ensure a fair and streamlined process. If you have missed the registration window, we look forward to your participation in future events and programs. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming opportunities! 

If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at onevisiononevoice@oacas.org 

We understand that this event may bring up a lot of strong emotions for youth who attend. There will be a resource packet outlining immediate supports youth can access before, during, or after the symposium in the swag bags and a resource spotlight during the event.

A mental health counsellor will be onsite during and available immediately after the event to support or debrief. We strongly advise that workers check in with their youth before and after the event and be available to support, connect, or debrief.

While we highly encourage everyone to register in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient experience, we understand that sometimes plans can change. However, please note that individuals, whether youth or adults, who attempt to attend the event without prior registration may be subject to an additional charge to accommodate them on a last-minute basis. This is to cover any extra expenses incurred for on-the-spot arrangements and to maintain the overall quality of the event for all participants. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone at PowerUp! 

No, you do not have to bring your meals. However, please inform us if you have any specific dietary needs so we can accommodate them accordingly.

While you are in programming sessions, it is imperative that your chaperones/caregivers are fully aware of your location. Moreover, when you are not engaged in a session, it is non-negotiable that your chaperones/chaperones are always promptly informed about your whereabouts, ensuring your safety and well-being.

If you are overwhelmed or overstimulated during the events, we have registered social workers and psychotherapists on-site. They will be available in a dedicated quiet room to provide support as needed. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to ensure you have the assistance required during any challenging moments.

You have the choice to permit the taking of your photographs during the event. We respect your privacy, and upon your arrival, we will collect your preference regarding the use of photos, whether they will be posted on social media or not. Your comfort and preferences are important to us and will be respected throughout the event.

Yes! We highly encourage and value feedback from participants. Your input is crucial in helping us improve and enhance the PowerUp! event for future iterations. Feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions, as they play an essential role in shaping the success of next year’s event.