Amanda Coombs founded Back 2 Basickz Youth Support Services in 2013 after facing her own challenges navigating complex social and economic systems as a young Black woman and mother who had left high school early while seeking stability and opportunity. With the help of mentors and community programs, she returned to school, graduated, and went on to earn her B.A. in Psychology from York University. Amanda launched Back 2 Basickz in Toronto’s Jane and Finch community, providing wraparound supports that address mental health, education, employment, and social integration for Black and racialized youth. In January 2024, a second location opened in Scarborough, expanding the organization’s reach and impact across the city. Today, Amanda is pursuing her Master of Divinity in Clinical Counselling and continues to empower youth through leadership, advocacy, and free training opportunities. Her work has been recognized nationally, including receiving Canada’s Top Mental Health Advocate Award (2025) for Community Impact.