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About Us

About Us – Our Mission & Story

Who We Are

SBS Collective Co. is a Brampton-based social enterprise powered by The CHANCE Centre (TCC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering neurodivergent and underserved individuals. We’re all about building skills, supporting local talent, and creating products with purpose.

Our custom-made items are crafted by neurodivergent and underserved individuals who gain hands-on experience and meaningful work opportunities.

When you shop with us, you’re not just buying a product – you’re investing in people and helping create lasting change in our community.

Our Story

Many neurodivergent individuals and young adults from underserved communities struggle to find meaningful employment.

Rather than waiting for change, we created it. SBS Collective Co. is a place where participants learn hands-on skills, create products, and gain experience in a supportive environment.

Every purchase directly supports training, mentorship, and skills-building opportunities.

Shop With Purpose

Why It Matters

  • People with disabilities have a higher unemployment rate (6.9%) than those without disabilities (3.8%)
  • According to Statistics Canada, in January 2025 ,racialized youth continue to face greater barriers to employment, with Black youth having the highest unemployment rate. The unemployment rate for Black youth was 18.6%, compared to 10.8% for non-racialized youth
  • Hands-on job training provides a pathway to financial independence and career success.

When businesses and individuals choose purpose-driven products, they invest in a more inclusive workforce.

Sustainability Commitment

SBS Collective Co. is committed to ethical production and local impact.
  • Made in Brampton, Ontario – Supporting small businesses and reducing reliance on mass production.
  • Small-Batch, Thoughtful Production – Prioritizing quality over waste
  • Workforce Development – Investing in skills training and career pathways for underserved youth.
Shop Ethical Merch

Meet Our Team

Meet the passionate crew behind SBS Collective Co.! We’re a team of innovators, dreamers, and doers who believe in creating with purpose, building an inclusive future, and having a little fun along the way. Scroll down to learn loves coffee too much, who adds the perfect creative touch, and who keeps us all on track

We don’t just create merch-we create opportunity, confidence, and community.

Marlene Spence

Founder and Neurodiversity Advocate

Passionate about inclusion and creativity, Marlene is the visionary behind SBS Collective Co. She runs on big ideas, a love for T-shirts, caramel popcorn and the perfect cup of tea (but don’t ask her to choose between chai or ginger!).

Jaron

Print & Production Crew Member

Loves Starbucks and keeps the crew on track, making sure we don’t forget important stuff.

Tyler

Print & Production Crew Member

Loves everything about Michael Jackson and is always attuned to the fine details.

Asia

Print & Production Crew Member

Loves singing Katy Perry, enjoys staying busy, and is a talented artist.

Gareth

Print & Production Crew Member

Loves talking about the weather and excels at detailed, repetitive work.

Manjot

Print & Production Crew Member

Loves to talk, lights up every room with her presence, and is dedicated to working hard and giving it her best.

Alec

Print & Production Crew Member
Loves coffee, enjoys long walks, and stays focused while on the job.

Vivek

Print & Production Crew Member
Loves to eat, be with his friends, and works hard—always staying busy and putting in a lot of effort to do the job well.

Skill Building Studio Program – Hands-On Training & Employment

What is the Skill Building Studio Program?

The Skill Building Studio is an employment training and entrepreneurship program by The CHANCE Centre (TCC), a nonprofit organization based in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Participants gain hands-on experience in design, printing, and business operations, equipping them with practical skills for the workforce

Through real-world projects and mentorship, participants build confidence and career skills.

Why It’s Important

  • Many young adults in marginalized communities lack access to training opportunities.
  • Hands-on learning builds confidence, independence, and job readiness.
  • Hands-on job training provides a pathway to financial independence and career success.
  • People with disabilities have a higher unemployment rate (6.9%) than those without disabilities (3.8%)
  • According to Statistics Canada, in January 2025 ,racialized youth continue to face greater barriers to employment, with Black youth having the highest unemployment rate. The unemployment rate for Black youth was 18.6%, compared to 10.8% for non-racialized youth

How It Works

1. Participants learn practical skills in product design, custom printing, and business operations.
2. They create real products for customers, businesses, and community partners.

3. Mentors provide training and support to help them develop workplace readiness.

Join the Studio

Who Can Join the Skill Building Studio Program?

The Skill Building Studio Program is designed for individuals who face barriers to employment and need a supportive, hands-on learning environment to develop their skills. This includes:

Neurodivergent individuals (those with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or cognitive differences) who benefit from structured skill-building experiences.

Youth and adults from underserved communities, including those facing economic hardship, social exclusion, or systemic barriers to employment.

Individuals seeking career growth and independence through training in design, production, and business operations.

As part of The CHANCE Centre (TCC), this program is not just about work—it’s about empowerment, confidence-building, and long-term success. Participants receive hands-on mentorship, develop workplace readiness skills, and gain real-world experience by contributing to meaningful projects.

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