The environmental non-profit sector in Canada continues to evolve, but BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) voices have been underrepresented at leadership and decision-making levels for too long.

The BIPOC Fellowship was launched in 2021 to address this gap, not just by increasing diversity, but by fostering true inclusion, equity, and leadership opportunities for BIPOC professionals working in sustainability and climate action. 

Now in its fourth year, the BIPOC Fellowship continues to grow and thrive, offering direct financial support to BIPOC leaders and changemakers across Canada. The program provides funding to individuals in leadership or senior management roles at environmental non-profits, as well as to those spearheading sustainability initiatives—whether through an organization or their own independent projects. 

The Fellowship is more than just financial support—it creates a network where BIPOC professionals can connect, share their experiences, and access the resources needed to navigate and succeed in this field. 

A Year of Growth and Impact 

The Fellowship has expanded significantly over the past year, and has welcomed seven new fellows through our microgrants program. These individuals are leading transformative projects across various areas, including: 

● Eco-fashion initiatives that promote sustainable and ethical clothing practices. 

● Seed saving and food security efforts that ensure access to fresh produce for vulnerable communities. 

● Climate action workshops for youth, focusing on climate emotions and resilience. 

● Spiritual eco-retreats that integrate environmental consciousness with well-being. 

● Storytelling initiatives that amplify BIPOC voices in sustainability.

These projects are just the beginning. Our upcoming spring round will bring in even more fellows, each with unique and powerful ideas for creating environmental change. 

Building Community and Expanding Reach

In addition to supporting individual projects, the Fellowship fosters connection and collaboration through our quarterly BIPOC roundtables — virtual gatherings where fellows discuss key topics, share updates, and strengthen their network. Looking ahead, we hope to host in-person events to bring together BIPOC professionals from across the country, deepen these relationships, and create new opportunities for collective action. 

Raising awareness about the Fellowship is also a key priority. I have had the privilege to speak about our work on several special occasions, including: 

● Sustainable Eastern Ontario (SEO) Star Awards, which recognizes environmental organizations. 

● Capacity Building Institute Webinar on Diversity, Equity Inclusion: ○ https://www.youtube.com/@capacitybuildinginstitute7845/videos ● Canada Eco-Action Gala

● Songs of the Revolution, a radio program where I highlighted the importance of BIPOC leadership in environmentalism. 

○ https://cod.ckcufm.com/programs/604/68989.html 

● The Ecological Fair at St. Paul’s University, where I will present on a panel discussion. 

The response I’ve received from these events has been overwhelmingly positive—whenever I speak about the Fellowship, people are eager to learn more, share it with their networks, and explore how they can support or participate. 

Looking Ahead

As we continue to grow, our focus remains on expanding outreach, particularly in the Northern and Atlantic regions of Canada where access to environmental funding and opportunities can be more limited. It’s crucial that BIPOC leadership isn’t just present in entry-level roles, but is embedded at the highest levels—governance, policy-making, and executive leadership. 

The work we’re doing is making a tangible difference, and we’re excited about the possibilities ahead. With continued funding and support, we hope to increase the number of fellows, host more events, and deepen our impact in shaping an environmental sector that is truly diverse, inclusive, and equitable. For those who want to learn more, get involved, or help spread the word, we welcome you to connect with us. Together, we can build a future where BIPOC leadership is not just supported, but celebrated and recognized as essential to environmental progress. 

Please check out our website: https://www.bipoc-fellowship.ca/. Here you will find details on our new micro-grants program as well as a link to our 2024 Annual Report.

Nasha Choudhury is the Co-Chair for the BIPOC Fellowship and the Partnerships Program Manager with PERC.