## World Innovation League Launches Diverse Tech Talent Program 2.0 to Bridge Canada’s Tech Skills Gap
Canada’s tech sector is booming, but it faces a significant challenge: a lack of diversity. Only 2.6% of tech roles are held by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, a stark contrast to the country’s diverse population. To address this issue, the World Innovation League (WIL), a Canadian non-profit organization, is proudly launching the second year of its Diverse Tech Talent Program (DTTP 2.0).
DTTP 2.0 is a pioneering initiative designed to equip underrepresented youth across Canada with the essential skills, mentorship, and career-building opportunities needed to thrive in the tech industry. With strategic funding secured, the program is poised to significantly contribute to Canada’s expanding tech ecosystem, preparing future leaders with the knowledge and experience to excel in high-demand fields.
A Unique Training-to-Job Model
DTTP 2.0 offers a unique training-to-job model that aims to break down traditional barriers to entry in tech for young Canadians from diverse backgrounds. The program’s success is evident in its first year, where it successfully trained 500 individuals. With DTTP 2.0, WIL is continuing its mission to empower innovators and startups worldwide, starting right 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
While WIL leads the DTTP 2.0 initiative, the program draws upon the specialized expertise of several key partners to ensure participants receive a comprehensive and impactful experience:
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World Innovation League (WIL):
Leading 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 contributes to 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 is meticulously structured to prepare participants for long-term success in Canada’s rapidly evolving tech industry. The program encompasses four key pillars:
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Training:
Industry-aligned modules in high-demand fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), software development, and UX design, led by experts with hands-on experience.*
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 the program 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.
