THE IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON SOMALI-CANADIAN YOUTH LIVING IN REXDALE

Abstract

Background: The first wave of Somali-Canadian refugees arrived in the 1990s following the civil war, with many settling in Toronto. First generation Somali-Canadians faced significant discrimination and settlement challenges. Previous research on Canada immigrants found that second generation youth tend to have a bright socioeconomic outlook. However, this outlook is not so certain for Somali-Canadian youth as they face unique long-term challenges with systemic barriers. Additionally, the pandemic has disproportionately impacted Black communities. Thus, it is important to explore how the pandemic has impacted the employment and health of Somali-Canadian youth living in Rexdale. Methods: Through an IPA approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 Somali-Canadian youth between the ages of 18-25 living in the Rexdale neighbourhood. The interviews were then analyzed through the IPA perspective to generate themes. Results: Somali-Canadian youth experience precarious employment, unsafe working conditions, lost income, faced financial difficulties and an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19. Furthermore, these impacts were exacerbated by living with large families and immunocompromised family members. Participants accessed government COVID-19 supports but some were ineligible due to precarious work or concerns associated with accessing governmental assistance. The pandemic negatively impacted the mental health of youth due to financial worries, educational and interpersonal challenges, and cultural stigma. Additionally, the intersectional identities of the participants resulted in limited choices and access to coping strategies. Conclusions: In order to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of Somali-Canadian youth, and those who share their experiences, there needs to be greater investments into the social determinants of health including employment, healthcare, housing, income, and education.