Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Launches Free E-Book Highlighting Youth in Care
Honouring International Youth Day
In recognition of International Youth Day, the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada (CAFC) has launched Keziah’s Secret Armour, a free, illustrated children’s e-book that celebrates the resilience, courage, and strength of young people involved in the child welfare system.
A Story of Strength and Community
The book follows Keziah, a young woman with lived experience in foster care and a member of CAFC’s Young People’s Advisory Council. Written by Nadia Formigoni and illustrated by acclaimed artist Tim Shinn, the story captures a girl navigating multiple foster homes, finding hope, building identity, and discovering the transformative power of community support.
Originally produced for CAFC’s Teddy Bear Affair gala, the book’s positive reception prompted the Foundation to release it to the public.
Raising Awareness for Youth in Care
“There are an estimated 61,000 young people in care in Canada today, and another 300,000 at risk of entering the system,” said Valerie McMurtry, President & CEO of CAFC. “We want this story to raise awareness and inspire support for youth across the country—young people who are courageously navigating systems and challenges that many Canadians never see.”
The Foundation notes that the book is especially relevant for the Black community, where systemic inequities contribute to an overrepresentation of Black youth in care.
Keziah’s Message
Keziah, now pursuing a political science degree in Ottawa, says the story is a way to show young people that “healing is possible” and that “support can make all the difference.”
How to Access the Book
Keziah’s Secret Armour is available for free download at cafdn.org/secretarmour.
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