Toronto, Oct. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- World Innovation League (WIL), a Canadian non-profit organization, proudly announces the launch of the second year of the Diverse Tech Talent Program (DTTP 2.0). This pioneering initiative aims to bridge the tech skills gap by equipping underrepresented youth across Canada with essential skills, mentorship, and career-building opportunities. With strategic funding secured, DTTP 2.0 is positioned to significantly support Canada’s expanding tech ecosystem, preparing future leaders with the knowledge and experience needed to excel in high-demand fields.
Addressing Canada’s Tech Talent Shortage
Canada’s tech sector is thriving, yet underrepresentation remains a pressing issue. Only 2.6% of tech roles are currently held by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, a stark contrast to Canada’s diverse population. DTTP 2.0 is designed to close this gap by leveling up skills, providing real-world experience, and creating access to job opportunities. Through this, DTTP 2.0 strengthens Canadian tech with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
Under the leadership of WIL, DTTP 2.0 offers a unique training-to-job model aimed at helping young Canadians from diverse backgrounds overcome traditional barriers to entry in tech. Since launching last year, DTTP has successfully trained 500 Canadians and residents. With this new cohort, WIL continues its mission to empower innovators and startups worldwide, beginning here at home in Canada.
“DTTP is about more than skills—it’s about building a future where opportunities are accessible to everyone,” said Uchi Uchibeke, Founder and Executive Director of WIL. “We’re committed to creating a legacy program that empowers individuals and enriches Canada’s tech ecosystem. This program builds leaders who will contribute to Canada and, ultimately, give back to their communities.”
A Collaborative Effort with Strategic Partners
While WIL serves as the lead organization behind DTTP 2.0, several key partners bring specialized expertise to ensure participants receive a comprehensive, impactful experience:
- World Innovation League (WIL): Lead organization managing program vision, funding, and hackathon design.
- Co.Lab: Training partner delivering industry-focused modules in software development and emerging tech skills.
- Riipen: Project and employer experience provider, connecting participants to real-world projects and prospective employers.
- Atila: Mentorship partner offering one-on-one guidance, industry insights, and networking opportunities.
Each partner enriches the DTTP experience through a blend of technical instruction, project-based learning, and job placement support, while WIL maintains a unified vision for the program’s success.
The DTTP 2.0 Experience: A Pathway to Success in Tech
DTTP 2.0 has been meticulously structured to prepare participants for long-term success in Canada’s rapidly evolving tech industry. The program includes four key pillars:
- Training: Industry-aligned modules in high-demand fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), software development, and UX design. Modules are led by experts with hands-on experience in their respective fields.
- Mentorship: Access to a network of mentors from top global tech companies, providing career guidance, professional insights, and invaluable support.
- Hackathons: Intensive, collaborative hackathons where participants tackle real-world tech challenges, develop portfolio-worthy projects, and hone their problem-solving skills.
- Job Placement Support: Tailored resources and introductions to hiring companies to help graduates transition into full-time tech roles.
Commitment to Excellence: Achieving High Completion Rates
With strategic funding in place, DTTP 2.0 is designed to achieve a high completion rate, with a target of 80%. This structure aligns incentives and resources to ensure participants are fully supported throughout their journey, making DTTP 2.0 more than just a training program—it’s a gateway to impactful tech careers.
Applications Open Soon: Join Canada’s Future Tech Leaders
Applications for Cohort One open on November 1, 2024, with the program officially kicking off in January 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to follow WIL on social media and visit Cohort website for updates on application timelines, eligibility requirements, and program details. This is an unparalleled opportunity for young Canadians from diverse backgrounds to enter the tech industry and make a lasting impact.
About World Innovation League (WIL)
World Innovation League (WIL) is a Canada-based organization dedicated to creating opportunities for youth from underrepresented backgrounds to thrive in technology and innovation. With initiatives like the Diverse Tech Talent Program, WIL is reshaping Canada’s tech landscape by fostering inclusion, diversity, and empowerment in the digital workforce.
