Volunteer Board Chairperson

Board Chairperson (Volunteer Position)

• Organization: JAYU Festival Inc
• Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Contact: board@jayu.ca
• Deadline: Rolling
• Time Commitment: Approximately 5 hours per month, including 5 Board meetings, and regular monthly check-ins with the Executive Director
• Term: 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.

About Us

JAYU is a vibrant, award-winning charitable organization based in Toronto that utilizes the power of the arts to tell compelling human rights stories. With a focus on youth engagement, we amplify voices from around the world, weaving together narratives that inspire empathy, understanding, and positive social change.

Role Overview

As Board Chair, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping JAYU’s next chapter. Working closely with the Executive Director and a committed Board of Directors, you’ll provide leadership, foster effective governance, and help strengthen JAYU’s impact in the community and continuous contribution to the arts and culture sector of Toronto.

JAYU’s Board of Directors meets approximately 5 times per year, working collaboratively to support the oversight and governance of the organization, while also passionately advocating for our mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES - Chairperson

LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE

Chair 5 Board meetings annually, including our Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board to guide strategic direction

Ensure effective board engagement and adherence to governance best practices

Provide oversight on financial risk management, audits, and the review of budgets and financial statements, drawing on sound financial knowledge and judgment

Support strong communication and collaboration across the Board and leadership team

• Ensure best practices in Board governance are followed and bylaws are upheld.
• Keeping the Executive Director accountable to organizational values and bylaws.
• Ensure accountability to JAYU’s mission, vision, and values.

ADVOCACY

• Be a visible ambassador for JAYU in the community
• Champion JAYU’s events, programs, and fundraising efforts
• Strengthen and expand JAYU’s network by building meaningful partnerships with community organizations, funders, and government stakeholders to support long-term sustainability.

QUALIFICATIONS

We’re looking for a collaborative, community-minded leader with:

• Experience in Board governance or nonprofit leadership
• A solid understanding of nonprofit finance, budgeting, and risk management, including audits and financial oversight
• Familiarity with the Greater Toronto Area and a working knowledge of Canada’s charitable sector
• Passion for human rights, social justice, youth development, or the arts
• Proven experience in strategic planning at the Board level, with the ability to establish clear priorities and align organizational goals with long-term sustainability
• Strong communication and facilitation skills
• A commitment to equity, diversity, and accountability

To Apply

Send a short statement of interest and your CV to board@jayu.ca. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We thank all applicants for their interest and are happy to accommodate accessibility needs throughout the process.