About the Program
The Breaking Barriers Program is a national initiative designed to increase access, representation, and leadership opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) within the Canadian sport system.
Working alongside community organizations, sport bodies, and local clubs, the program removes systemic and socioeconomic barriers that limit participation in sport. Through a combination of athlete development, leadership pathways, and organizational support, Breaking Barriers helps create more inclusive and accessible sport environments across Canada.
The program was first piloted through swimming, addressing critical gaps in access and water safety while creating meaningful opportunities for youth and emerging leaders. Building on this success, the model is designed to expand across multiple sports and communities nationwide.
Program Highlights
Youth Access to Sport
Provide free or low-barrier introductory programming for youth in underserved communities.
Leadership Development
Create pathways for participants to become coaches, officials, lifeguards, and sport leaders.
Skill-Building & Job Readiness
Offer training, certifications, and hands-on experience to prepare participants for future opportunities.
Mentorship & Community Connection
Connect participants with mentors, peers, and sport leaders across the industry.
Organizational Support
Equip sport organizations with tools, education, and resources to build more inclusive environments.
Program Facilitation
Breaking Barriers is delivered in partnership with national and community organizations committed to advancing equity and inclusion in sport. Programming is implemented at the community level in collaboration with local clubs, municipalities, and sport leaders.
Impact
Breaking Barriers addresses participation gaps while building long-term leadership pathways—helping create a more diverse, inclusive, and representative sport system across Canada.
Last updated July 2026
