Metro Vancouver is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Yet for many young people growing up between two cultures, finding a true sense of belonging doesn't happen automatically. It has to be built — together.
Over 54% of Metro Vancouver residents identify as a visible minority — the first major Canadian city where this is true. Chinese, South Asian, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese and dozens of other Asian communities have built their lives here, raised their families here, and shaped the fabric of this region.
But growing up between two cultures is not always easy. Many young people feel the pull of two worlds — the expectations of home and the culture outside. They want to belong to both. They want to be seen — fully.
Youth Can exists to create that space. Not a program that fixes problems. A community that builds possibility.
These are the real numbers behind Metro Vancouver's Asian Canadian community — and why culturally relevant programs for youth are not a nice-to-have. They are essential.
Source: Statistics Canada 2021 Census · BC Stats 2024 Population Estimates
Youth Can welcomes young people from all backgrounds. While our roots are in Metro Vancouver's Asian Canadian communities, our doors are open to every child who needs a place to belong.
Diversity is Metro Vancouver's greatest strength. But representation alone is not enough — young people need spaces that actively nurture their identity, connect them to their community, and help them grow with confidence.
"These numbers are why we started.
The young people behind them are why we keep going."
Read about the founders, the mission, and the moment Youth Can was born.