Who We Are and What We Do
For Us, By Us
Under the umbrella of YWCA Hamilton’s youth programs, speqtrum offers a range of programming led by and designed for LGBTQ2SIA+ youth aged 16-29.
Our programming works towards these goals:
- Decrease barriers to mental health supports and services
- Build skills and community
- Promote healthy relationships between LGBTQ2SIA+ youth, their peers, adult allies, and their community
- Increase safety, diversity, inclusion, and equity in youth programming
We offer one-on-one support through our weekly check-ins, as well as a variety of workshops, fun events, community resources, and specialized supports for queer youth who are new to Canada. Check out our programs (link to programs page) for more information about what we’re doing and how you can join us!
Our Impact
In 2025-26, speqtrum made some significant impacts for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth in our community! Here are just a few ways we’re making a difference:
- We welcomed 486 queer youth who participated in speqtrum activities
- We offered 51 skill building workshops and community events
- We supported 200+ Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth newcomers to Canada
- We worked with 10+ community partners to deliver programming and safe spaces
Meet the Team
Noura
Pronouns: She/Her
Role: Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Newcomer Youth Support Worker-YWCA Join Programs
Loves: Plants, community, gaming, bellydance
Work Interests: Finding creative ways communities can care for each other, exchanging skills and knowledge that build community capacity.
Kat
Pronouns: She/Her
Role: speqtrum Coordinator
Loves: Digital Art, Home Decor, Plants, Music, Fitness, Coffee Shops
Work Interests: Facilitating welcoming environments and services that encourage people to come as they are. I love being apart of spaces that foster community and a sense belonging.
Jadein
Pronouns: He/Him
Role: speqtrum Coordinator
Loves: Kpop, Fashion, Digital Photography, Avatar the Last Air Bender, Video Games, Fitness
Work Interests: Cultivating community and making learning fun while applying anti-oppressive approaches.
Sid
Pronouns: He/They
Role: speqtrum Coordinator
Loves: Music, Sewing, Collaging, Reading Fanfiction, Baking
Work Interests: Fostering spaces that welcome folks to show up authentically. Building community that's rooted in collective care, shared abundance, and mutual ease.