What We Do

Arts education & youth pathways

Studies show that arts education improves academic performance, with students involved in the arts being four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement. Youth engaged in cultural programs have a 29% higher chance of graduating from high school.

Despite the proven impact of arts education, Black and Caribbean youth in Canada continue to face systemic barriers, including lower graduation rates and limited access to culturally relevant programming. Our focus on education allows youth and community members to develop skills, build confidence, and strengthen cultural connections, ensuring that the rich traditions of carnival are passed down, reimagined, and celebrated for years to come.

S.O.C.A. Kids Club

Over five programs, participants learn costume design and mas making, the history of carnival and its roots back to Africa, the connection of carnival to slavery and emancipation, the evolution of carnival music, and the origins of the Steelpan. Offerings include Carnival Costume Mas Camp & Mini-Carnival, Steelpan Workshops, Calypso and Soca Workshops, Caribbean Dance, and African Drumming, scalable and flexible for school, summer, or cultural camp settings.

S.O.C.A. Pathfinders Arts to Industry Youth Career Pathways

Pathfinders bridges the gap between the arts and industry, connecting youth to real career pathways in the creative economy. Through hands-on training, mentorship from working Caribbean creatives, and exposure to the business behind mas, music, and production, young people gain the professional skills and networks to turn cultural passion into a livelihood.

Caribella Mas Carnival Arts Workshops

Researched and curated to align with the TCDSB 2023-2026 Equity Action Plan, Part B “Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy.” Four Caribbean women visit spaces across Toronto and Peel region sharing an interactive presentation on the art of mas, storytelling through fabrics, feathers, gems, and more. Partnership opportunities available with schools and community centers.

Healing Through the Arts

“The Rhythm Within” is a holistic cultural wellness program supporting the emotional and mental well-being of youth affected by systemic barriers, discrimination, and violence. Rooted in Caribbean traditions, it integrates music, storytelling, and art with mindfulness practices, trauma-informed facilitation, and music therapy, harnessing Steelpan, African Drumming, Percussion, and Carnival Mas Making as tools for emotional expression and personal growth.

Intergenerational Mentorship

At S.O.C.A., we believe that our community’s greatest resource is the knowledge passed down through generations. Our mentorship initiatives create a vital bridge between experienced elders, cultural practitioners, and emerging youth, equipping the next generation with the resilience and skills needed to lead.

S.O.C.A. Carnival Artist Mentorship Program

Pairs emerging artists with master mas-makers, musicians, and performers to pass down technique, craft, and cultural knowledge through hands-on collaboration.

Community Co-op Hours

Structured volunteer and co-op placements that give students real-world arts experience while earning the community involvement hours they need to graduate.

Scholarships & Bursaries

Investing in the Next Generation of Excellence

Through our Scholarship and Bursary Program, S.O.C.A. provides vital financial support and resources to young talent within the diaspora, removing barriers to education and artistic development.

The Amah Harris Scholarship & Bursary Program

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence and Advocacy

Named in honor of Amah Harris, a trailblazer, educator, and passionate advocate for arts and culture in Canada. Established in 2025, this program carries her legacy forward by opening doors for young people of Caribbean descent. Scholarships and bursaries range from $500 to $1,000 CAD and are awarded annually to students of Caribbean heritage attending accredited colleges or universities in Ontario.

The Amah Harris Scholarship for Arts & Excellence

Recognizes scholastic achievement, artistic merit, and cultural leadership. Eligible disciplines: Visual Arts, Music (including Steelpan), Dance, Theatre/Production, Film & Media, and Literary Arts.

The S.O.C.A. Caribbean Cultural Arts Bursary

Supports emerging artists of Caribbean descent who demonstrate financial need, prioritizing those who bridge ancestral wisdom with modern artistic expression.

Scholarships are announced annually, with application periods posted on our website and social media channels.