Solidarity Economy Mentorship Internship (aka SEMI Program)
Are you looking for a pathway to get involved in the Social Solidarity Economy?
The SEMI Program strengthens employability pathways by pairing experienced mentors with aspiring youth to build practical skills, professional experience, and confidence through hands-on referrals to community-based projects in the social solidarity economy (SSE).
The SEMI Program is on Pause!
SEIZE is working toward relaunching SEMI as a refreshed, cohort-based employability program focused on supporting youth to build skills, professional networks, and pathways into the social solidarity economy. We encourage interested participants to stay connected by joining our mailing list or following SEIZE for updates!
Program Structure
Are you looking to build skills, gain experience, and find your place within the social solidarity economy (SSE)?
The SEMI Program is a structured, cohort-based employability program designed to support youth in developing professional skills, networks, and career direction within the social solidarity economy. The program focuses on reducing barriers to participation in cooperative, nonprofit, and community-based work by combining mentorship, skills training, and applied learning opportunities.
As part of the SEMI Program, participants are matched with an experienced mentor whose background aligns with their professional interests and learning goals. Mentors provide guidance on skill development, career navigation, and workplace readiness within the SSE. Each participant will engage in a minimum of five one-on-one mentorship sessions, alongside cohort-based learning activities and employability modules that support professional growth and workforce readiness.
The SEMI Program is designed for youth who are looking to build skills, gain experience, and develop meaningful career pathways within the social solidarity economy.
The program prioritizes participants who:
- Are looking for employment at a Cooperative or Non-profit organization;
- Are interested in contributing to a zero-emissions economy and sustainable enterprises;
- Align with the values of the social solidarity economy (SSE), including democratic governance, autonomy, inclusivity, equity, and solidarity;
- Identify as part of BIPOC and/or other marginalized communities;
- Are seeking structured mentorship and professional development, with clearly identified learning goals;
- Are interested in learning alongside peers, either individually or as part of a small team.
SEMI Program Testimonials:
The SEMI Program Cycle 1 & 2 was made possible with the generous support from:
