The Inclusion in Canadian Sports Network (ICSN) proudly celebrates its five-year anniversary, marking a pivotal milestone in its mission to build a more inclusive, equitable, and representative sport system across Canada.
Founded in July 2020, previously known as BCCA (Black Canadian Coaches Association), ICSN has grown into a national force for change – developing programs, amplifying diverse voices, and building an ever expanding community of sport leaders committed to dismantling systemic barriers. From local impact to national conversations, ICSN continues to lead with intention, innovation, and community.
Programs that Move the Needle
In five years, ICSN has provided various programs, shown on ICSN’s Five Year Impact Page:
- Emerging BIPOC Leaders Program: Empowers 200+ BIPOC youth (ages 18-26) through mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities to cultivate the next generation of leaders in Canadian sport.
- BIPOC Mentorship Program: Pairs emerging BIPOC coaches with experienced BIPOC mentors in the amateur sports system, providing professional development funding to increase diversity and representation in coaching roles.
- Breaking Barriers in Swimming Program: Provides free swim lessons and lifeguard certification training to reduce drowning rates among BIPOC youth and increase BIPOC representation in aquatic leadership across Canada.
- Building Bridges Program: Provides a safe and engaging space for Black youth to connect with Black law enforcement through open dialogue, conversation, and play, fostering mutual understanding, trust, and guidance toward law enforcement careers while building stronger, more inclusive communities.
- Black Leaders in Sports Day: The inaugural event, for the first time in Canadian history, brought together Black sport professionals across Canada to build community, share knowledge, and strengthen the impact of Black leadership in sports.
- Play Fair: Anti-Racism in Sports Toolkit & Webinar Series: A free downloadable toolkit with educational resources and practical steps to help sports organizations and individuals in combat racism and discrimination within the sports community. The webinar series guides sport organizations and post-secondary administrators in applying this knowledge into effective, real change.
- Annual National Diversity in Sports Conference: ICSN’s 3-day flagship event brings together emerging and established sport leaders of all backgrounds, sports, and sport sectors across Canada to discuss key issues facing underrepresented communities in sports. The conference features panel discussions, keynote speakers, and interactive workshops, fostering dialogue on topics such as representation, systemic change, and cultural inclusion.
A Movement Built on Community
At the heart of ICSN’s work is a growing, diverse community from emerging leaders and grassroots organizers to provincial and national sport organizations. The ICSN network is a reflection of what is possible when inclusion is made a priority, not an afterthought.
“Our unity exemplifies a powerful force driving us forward. Through unity, we unleash limitless opportunities, demonstrating the strength of coming together.” – Shauna Bookal, President & CEO, ICSN
What’s Next
As ICSN looks ahead, its focus remains steadfast: creating sustainable systems of support, expanding program access, and amplifying the next generation of sport leaders across Canada.
To learn more about ICSN’s work, explore programs, or get involved, visit
www.inclusionincanadiansports.ca.