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ISAP Enhancement Project

Lauren Akbar, ISAP Project Administrator, addressing the audience at the launch event
Lauren Akbar, ISAP Project Administrator, addressing the audience at the launch event.

We are thrilled to announce the Indigenous Student Application Program (ISAP) Enhancement Project as one of the recipients for the 2024 Access Programs University Fund (APUF). It was launched in 2022 as part of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work (FIFSW) commitment to strengthening representation of Indigenous social workers in the field. ISAP offers a specialized admissions stream for Indigenous applicants interested in pursuing the Master of Social Work program at the University of Toronto.

As part of the program’s enhancement efforts, FIFSW has launched a pilot project with the support of Access Strategy and Partnerships Office to provide tailored application support, as well as academic, peer, and alumni mentorship specifically for Indigenous students. This involves ongoing support from the application phase to ensuring their continued success throughout their studies and beyond.

A key partnership in this project is with Joyce Carpenter, Co-Founder of Shades of Our Sisters, an exhibit created by families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender, and Gender-Diverse+ peoples (MMIWG2S+). This exhibit honors their loved ones and highlights the lasting impact of their loss.

Joyce Carpenter, Co-Founder of Shades of Our Sisters, recounts the story of her daughter, Patricia Carpenter at the launch event
Joyce Carpenter, Co-Founder of Shades of Our Sisters, recounts the story of her daughter, Patricia Carpenter at the launch event.

This collaboration emphasizes the critical role of social workers in advocating for change, raising awareness, and addressing systemic injustices affecting Indigenous communities. It serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility to support MMIWG2S+ families and combat systemic oppression.

The launch of this project was not only a tribute to MMIWG2S+ and those affected but also a foundational step for the ISAP Enhancement Project. It ensures that the initiative is grounded in the history and present day lived experiences of Indigenous peoples.

Feather Wall exhibit cocreated with contributions from Shades of Our Sisters and the ISAP launch event
Feather Wall exhibit cocreated with contributions from Shades of Our Sisters and the ISAP launch event.

Moving forward, the ISAP Enhancement Project will focus on understanding the barriers and challenges in the admissions process through consultation. Strategies will be developed to improve the admissions process. These strategies will include ongoing support for both newly admitted students and enhanced recruitment efforts for prospective Indigenous students. ISAP’s ultimate goal is to ensure continuous engagement while fostering a supportive environment throughout their time in the program and beyond.

To learn more about ISAP, please visit their website at www.socialwork.utoronto.ca/indigenous-student-application-program/

March 17, 2025