hype forum: Equitable Futures
A free weekend focused on black & indigenous Poz youth Wellness
Step out of the city and into something life-changing.
The HYPE Summit is a free 4-day retreat for HIV-positive youth (18–29) in Ontario. You’ll be surrounded by nature, peers who get it, and space to just be yourself. We mix workshops (on health, stigma, dating, legal rights) with campfires, crafts, swimming, and rest.
It’s a place to connect, reflect, and maybe make a lifelong friend. If you’ve been feeling isolated, this could be the moment that shifts things. Give it a shot — we’ll meet you there.
📍 Downtown Toronto
Hosted in a private venue near Queen & Jarvis with catered meals. Coming from out of town? You will get a free hotel room nearby for Friday and Saturday nights. Live in the GTA? We will give you a travel stipend to cover your transit for Saturday and Sunday.
📅 NOV 15-16, 2025
2 days, 1 night. We start 8:30 am on Saturday, November 15th with a free breakfast and finish Sunday, November 16th at 2:00pm after lunch. Coming from outside the GTA? We’ll bring you in a day early (Friday evening) and cover your hotel and travel.
💸 100% Free
That’s right. We cover everything — transportation, food, lodging (if outside the GTA), and activities. You just bring yourself!
You’re not alone. You never were.
You’re not alone. You never were.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who can come to the HYPE Summit?
The Summit is for Black and Indigenous HIV-positive youth ages 18–29 living anywhere in Ontario. You don’t need to be connected to care — just living with HIV.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. Travel, hotel (if needed), food, lodging, and programming are all 100% covered. You may need to cover your local bus fare (~$4) but we will reimburse anything major like a $20 GO Train.
I don’t live in the GTA — can I still come?
Yes! If you're coming from outside the GTA, we’ll bring you into Toronto on Wednesday, May 21, put you up in a hotel, and bus everyone up to camp the next morning.
What if I don’t know anyone there?
Most people come not knowing anyone — and leave with real friendships. The vibe is chill, welcoming, and peer-led. You won’t be alone.
Is it safe to talk about HIV there?
Yes. Everyone there is living with HIV, and the space is confidential, peer-run, and stigma-free. You never have to share anything you’re not ready to.
What do I need to bring?
We’ll send a packing list! But basically: comfy clothes, a swimsuit, something warm at night, and anything that helps you feel grounded. We will provide a new sleeping bag if you don’t have one.