At Zao Innovation Hub, our vision is to create a world where all young people (age 10-34) are supported and empowered to reach their full potential. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Our programs are designed to provide youth with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed in life. From academic support to job training, we offer a range of programs that are tailored to meet the needs of our youth.
Our mission is to foster personal growth, mental well-being, and positive societal change, with a focus on marginalized and underserved populations in our community. We achieve this by implementing prevention and early intervention strategies aimed at reducing crime rates, addressing the root causes of crime, and enhancing the mental health and overall well-being of children and youth. By doing so, we strive to build a safer and more resilient community for everyone.
We are a team of passionate and dedicated professionals who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of youth in our community. We bring a diverse range of skills and experience to our work, and we are united by our shared commitment to creating a better future for young people.
Hi, I’m Tolu Folarin (pronounced "Toe-loo Foh-lah-reen"), the founder and lead coach of Zao Innovation Hub. As an immigrant from Nigeria who moved to Canada at the age of 15, my lived experiences shaped my passion for giving back and empowering youth to navigate life with confidence and resilience. I founded Zao to provide youth with the opportunities and support I wish I had growing up, as well as the invaluable guidance I did receive that transformed my life. Hence, Zao Innovation Hub is dedicated to mentorship, empowerment, engagement and training for youth aged 10-34. Through Full Life Programs which started in 2020, Zao aims to implement prevention and early intervention strategies, aiming to decrease crime rates, address underlying causes of crime, and improve the mental health and well-being of children and youths for positive outcomes, promoting a safer and more resilient community.
With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Toronto and years of experience working with children and youth, I am committed to fostering personal growth, mental well-being, and a sense of community through our holistic Full Life Programs. At Zao, every activity aims to provide youth with the support and opportunities that can turn lives around for good.
Please reach us at zaoinnovationhub@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Mondays: One-on-One Youth Counseling – Providing personalized support t to help youth navigate challenges, and build resilience.
Tuesdays: Creative Arts & Music Sessions –Explore painting, music, and other artistic expressions to foster creativity and emotional well-being.
Wednesdays: Leadership Workshops – Cultivating essential leadership skills for a brighter future. (i
Thursdays: Life/ Career Readiness Training – Practical workshops to build essential life skills and prepare for career success.
Fridays: Community Connection Nights – Engaging in fun, interactive events to foster community ties.leadership, teamwork, and community involvement.
Saturday: Youth-Led Day Camps – Fun, interactive camps where youth plan and lead activities to foster teamwork, creativity, and confidence.
Sunday: Sex and Relationship Seminars – Dedicated sessions focused on building healthy romantic relationships, comprehensive sex education, and raising awareness about child sexual exploitation and trafficking.
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