Exploring Career Development and Employment Needs of Young South Asian Women and Gender Diverse Individuals in the GTA

The South Asian Women’s Collective (SAWC) recently led a two-year Community Action Research Project to explore the career development and employment experiences of young South Asian women and gender diverse individuals (ages 18–30) across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

While research on racialized youth in the workforce exists, there has been limited focus on the unique experiences of young South Asian women and gender diverse individuals—many of whom are second-generation Canadians or recent immigrants navigating both cultural expectations and systemic barriers. The project aimed to fill this gap by capturing the perspectives of this community and understanding the challenges they face in accessing career opportunities, finding employment, and advancing professionally.

The motivation for this project grew from years of community programming and conversations led by SAWC, where young women consistently shared stories of obstacles in career pathways and employment. Through surveys and community consultations, the project gathered rich insights that highlight both the successes and the barriers experienced by this group.

The full report shares key findings and provides actionable recommendations for parents, employers, educational institutions, and policy makers, helping to inform evidence-based strategies to support equitable career development opportunities.

Read the Full Report to explore the findings and recommendations, and watch the accompanying video for an overview of the project.

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