Designed to support the unique needs of incoming Black students, these sessions ease the transition to university life. They cover topics such as campus resources, identity support, and navigating new environments with confidence. Included in these offerings is our Black Students Summer Leadership Program, which provides high school and incoming university students with early exposure to postsecondary life while building leadership skills, confidence, and community. To wrap up our postsecondary transition sessions, we host our annual Welcome Event every August—a celebration that officially welcomes you to the York community before the Fall semester begins.

BE YU’s Mentorship Program connects Black students with upper-year undergraduate peer mentors from the same program or faculty. These mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and insight to support students' academic and personal journeys. The program promotes leadership, academic success, and personal growth through one-on-one meetings, group sessions, and community-building activities.

Please email beyu@yorku.ca to schedule an appointment with a BE YU Mentor.

These events celebrate Black identity, culture, and community while creating spaces for students to connect, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships. Programming includes cultural celebrations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that affirm and uplift the Black student experience. A key part of this is our Black History Month events, held every February in collaboration with campus partners. These events honor the legacy, achievements, and contributions of Black communities—past and present. Activities may include keynote speakers, performances, workshops, and dialogues that educate, inspire, and encourage reflection and action.

This series equips students with practical tools and knowledge to build financial literacy and independence. Topics may include scholarships and bursaries, budgeting, student loans, credit, investing, and navigating financial aid, delivered through workshops, guest speakers, and interactive sessions.

Through partnerships and collaborations within York University and the broader community, BE YU connects students with opportunities, resources, and networks. Outreach includes promoting services, sharing scholarships and internships, and engaging with high schools and community organizations. These efforts are designed to support access to and success in postsecondary education, particularly for equity-deserving students.