Welcome to Pathways to Education’s 2025 Annual Report

A Message from our Board Chair and
Chief Impact Officer

Dear supporters,

As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful for the generosity of our partners and supporters across the country. We simply could not do what we do without your support.

We know that young people are navigating increasingly complex challenges. The rising cost of living, increased pressures surrounding social and mental well-being, the lingering challenges from the impact of the pandemic, and gaps in academic support are making it harder for many to stay on track. We also know that the strength of the Pathways Program lies in our ability to listen, adapt and act on these evolving needs.

As the program approaches its 25th anniversary, we celebrate the successes realized through collaboration with our Program Partners and living the core values rooted in our mandate. This is also a critical time to reflect on the continued impact we hope to realize in the next 25 years.

Over the past year, we focused on listening to—and learning from—the communities we serve. Through months of deep engagement with students, families, and Program Partners, we identified where our support is having the greatest impact and where we need to evolve to remain responsive and relevant to the shifting needs of youth.

That insight has shaped critical improvements across our organization. In this report, you’ll read about just some of these efforts, including how we’re implementing findings from our Program Review in response to community realities, and a refreshed Performance Measurement Framework that will help us better track and measure youth success.

You’ll also see how community-driven feedback is informing our next Strategic Plan, which sets the stage for sustainable growth and positions us to thrive for the next 25 years. This plan will see us delving deeper into the systems, structures, and relationships that surround young people today, further strengthening the ethos of our vision and setting a clear route to deeper impact and future growth.

Our continued ability to evolve while staying grounded in our core mission is a reflection of the collective dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters across the country. On behalf of the entire Pathways to Education network, thank you for believing in the potential of Pathways youth and the communities they call home.

 

Vincent Mercier
Chair, Board of Directors
Pathways to Education Canada
Subagini Sivapatham
Chief Impact Officer
Pathways to Education Canada

 

A message on behalf of our
Alumni Ambassadors

In the last year, the number of Pathways Alumni Ambassadors has grown in ways we’ve never seen before, and I’m extremely grateful to be part of this collective of alumni throughout Canada who are supporting the next generation of Pathways students.

As Alumni Ambassadors, we play an important role in engaging with other Pathways alumni in their local communities across the country. This year, our voices have grown stronger, not just in numbers, but in purpose, passion, and community. Together, we’ve leaned into storytelling, mentorship, and community engagement—all rooted in gratitude for where we came from and where we started.

Looking back, we know that none of this would be possible without supporters like you. You’ve helped create spaces where alumni can dream bigger, lead boldly, and give back with impact. Your support turns lived experience into leadership, and that transformation continues to ripple outward in powerful ways. From boardrooms to classrooms, we’re showing up because you showed up first.

On behalf of all the Pathways Alumni Ambassadors, thank you for helping us continue this cycle of support, empowerment, and change.

 

Kashifa Naghman
Pathways alum, Scarborough Village
Pathways Alumni Ambassador

A Message from the
Government of Canada

Canada benefits when students reach their full potential and succeed in their academic and career goals. That is why Pathways to Education plays a key role in empowering students facing barriers through tailored academic, financial, and social support.

Last year, Pathways to Education supported over 9,000 students across 31 locations nationwide. By addressing individual needs and guiding youth through graduation and beyond, the program helps build brighter futures and strengthen Canada’s workforce.

In an ever-changing world and constantly evolving economy, the Government of Canada is working with Pathways to Education to help more youth succeed and build Canada strong. Early investment in young people is key to building their confidence, expanding their experiences, and equipping them with the skills and connections needed for lifelong success.

A heartfelt thank-you to the staff and volunteers who give their time, energy and passion to supporting the younger generation; and congratulations to all students who have participated in the program. Together, we are building the foundation for a bigger and brighter future for this generation and beyond.

 

Patty Hajdu
Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario