National Black Canadians Summit - Various Roles!

The Michaëlle Jean Foundation

Founded in 2009 as the legacy of the 27th Governor General of Canada, the Michaëlle Jean Foundation supports youth-led efforts toward inclusion and racial justice through creativity, arts, and innovation. Our programs give marginalized young people the platform and tools to advocate for themselves and their communities, working toward a Canada where young people are heard, included, and positioned to lead lasting change.

The National Black Canadians Summit

The foundation has convened the National Black Canadians Summit since 2017. It is the leading national gathering for Black Canadians: a three-day event that brings together leaders, advocates, artists, researchers, and community members from every region of the country to advance a focused national dialogue on anti-Black racism and systemic equity. Grounded in the three pillars of the International Decade for People of African Descent - Recognition, Justice, and Development - the Summit is both a space for dialogue and an engine for action.

Volunteers will play an important role in helping us deliver a welcoming and successful event experience. Opportunities are available in the following areas:

1. Registration & Check-in Volunteer

Role Purpose: To act as the first point of contact, ensuring a welcoming, efficient check-in process.

Duties:

• Greet attendees with a friendly demeanor.


• Check in attendees, scan tickets, and verify identifications.


• Distribute name badges, swag bags, and conference agendas.


• Answer general questions about the venue and schedule.

Skills: Strong communication, hospitality focus, organized.

2. Wayfinding & Information Ambassador

Role Purpose: To guide attendees through the venue and provide information.

Duties:

• Guide attendees to session rooms, plenary halls, and breakout areas.


• Monitor high-traffic areas to prevent bottlenecks.


• Direct guests toward restrooms, cafes, and transportation options.


• Monitor doors to prevent excessive noise disruption (ushering).

Skills: Personable, confident, familiar with the venue layout.

3. Speaker & Technical Support Monitor

Role Purpose: To assist speakers and maintain smooth operations in session rooms.

Duties:

• Assist speakers with laptop connections, microphones, and clickers.


• Help manage the Q&A segment by walking with microphones.


• Hand out and collect session evaluation forms.


• Liaise with A/V technicians to resolve technical issues promptly.

Skills: Tech-savvy, calm under pressure, helpful.

4. General "Floater" & Runner

Role Purpose: To provide flexible support to staff in various areas of need.

Duties:

• Fill in gaps as needed (e.g., covering a lunch break for another volunteer).


• Deliver materials or messages between planning committees and staff.


• Assist with last-minute setup requirements.

Skills: Adaptable, energetic, proactive.

5. Setup & Teardown Specialist (Pre/Post Event)

Role Purpose: To assist with the physical execution of the event on Day 0 or at the end of Day 3.

Duties:

• Set up tables, chairs, and registration booths.


• Place signage, banners, and decorations throughout the venue.


• Package up exhibition materials and assist with venue pack-down at the end of the 3 days.

Skills: Ability to lift light items, good organizational skills.

6. Social Media & Content Correspondent

Role Purpose: To capture the event and boost online engagement.

Duties:

• Take photos or short videos of plenary sessions and networking events.


• Post live updates to social channels using the official event hashtag.


• Assist with interactive attendee activities.

Skills: Proficient in social media platforms and photography skills.

Desired Skills

• Excellent communication skills


• Hospitable


• Personable and confident


• Adaptable


• Technologically savvy

3-day commitment, in 4 - 6 hour shifts.

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