Future Leaders Spotlight — March 2025: Aaliyah Morgan

Jayla Thompson

Age 17, Grade 12, Weston Collegiate Institute — Toronto, ON
“When you know your roots, you can grow anywhere.”

About

Jayla joined the R.O.O.T.S. Cultural Foundation at age 7 and has grown into a dynamic youth leader, passionate about education, equity, and cultural celebration. She’s now mentoring younger participants and planning to pursue social justice studies in university.

Achievements

Led the Black History Month showcase for 3 consecutive years, drawing over 300 attendees annually.
Created a peer tutoring program at her school, improving grades for 20+ students.
Earned the Toronto Youth Changemaker Award in 2024.

Community Impact

Jayla’s work bridges generations. She regularly hosts community dialogues on identity and empowerment and has organized food and supply drives benefiting families in the Weston and Jane-Finch areas.

What’s Next

Jayla is applying to universities across Canada to study Human Rights and African Studies. She also plans to launch a youth podcast amplifying Black voices across Ontario.

Shout-outs

Thank you to Auntie June, Mr. Blake, and the entire R.O.O.T.S. family for ten years of mentorship, love, and encouragement.

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