Exploring Possibility: Thrive Youth’s Career Exploration Day at Snap Inc.

On Wednesday, August 20th, our Youth Lead Impact participants from Rexdale spent an unforgettable day at Snap Inc.’s Toronto office, diving into a hands-on Career Exploration Day filled with mentorship, creativity, and inspiration. For many of our youth, this experience was their first glimpse into the world of creative tech careers, and it left them energized, curious, and ready to dream bigger.

The day began with an introduction to Snap’s Kind, Smart, and Creative Values, which set a powerful tone for what was ahead. Our youth were invited to think differently, embrace their strengths, and imagine what their futures could hold.

One of the highlights was the Journey to Snap Career Panel, where Snap employees shared

Panelists engage with youth, sharing insights and experiences about navigating their career paths during a "Journey to Snap" discussion.

their personal career paths and how they discovered their passion for innovation and creativity. The panel was filled with honest stories of unexpected turns, bold choices, and lessons learned along the way. Hearing directly from professionals who have built careers in creative industries helped our youth see that there are many pathways to success.

The conversations continued during small-group networking sessions, where our youth connected directly with Snap team members. What started as quiet introductions quickly became lively discussions. Participants asked thoughtful questions, shared their own ambitions, and received encouragement from mentors who listened deeply and offered insights into their work. These exchanges built confidence and helped youth envision their place in creative fields.

Students engage in a lively networking session with the Snap team, exchanging ideas and forging connections in a collaborative setting.

After lunch, the group took part in Council, a guided listening and storytelling practice. This reflective session created space for youth to share personal experiences, build empathy, and connect with one another on a deeper level. By the end, many had stepped outside their comfort zones and discovered the power of their voices.

The day ended with a special opportunity to give back. Our youth worked alongside Snap employees to pack backpacks filled with essential school supplies, creative tools, and fidget or anxiety kits for students in underserved communities. This act of service showed our young leaders the ripple effect of generosity and the importance of supporting peers who may face barriers to education.

Youth volunteers pack school supplies into bags, supporting students in underserved communities.

We are deeply grateful to Snap Inc. for welcoming our youth, sharing their time and expertise, and creating a space where possibilities felt endless. Opportunities like these open doors, broaden perspectives, and help young people see just how bright their futures can be.

At Thrive Youth, we believe experiences like this can change lives. When youth connect with mentors, explore real-world career pathways, and step into spaces where they are seen and supported, they gain not just knowledge but confidence and inspiration that will stay with them for years to come.

Participants of the Youth Lead Impact program pose together.