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Future innovators shine at FIRST Robotics Competition hosted by Durham College

Hundreds of high school students showcased their engineering skills and competitive spirit at the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition, hosted and sponsored by Durham College (DC).

A total of 28 teams and over 1,000 students, mentors, parents and supporters from across Ontario gathered at DC on March 14 and 15 for the district competition, where groups competed for a chance to advance to the provincial championships.

The event is part of the global FIRST Robotics Competition program, which challenges students in Grades 9 to 12 to design, build and program industrial-sized robots capable of completing complex tasks in fast-paced matches. Working alongside mentors, participants apply engineering, programming and teamwork skills to compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance.

This year’s season explored how discoveries from the past can inspire future innovation. Teams were invited to use modern engineering and robotics to reimagine the tools and technologies of earlier civilizations while solving dynamic challenges on the competition field.

In the weeks leading up to the event, participants used STEM knowledge and problem-solving skills to design, build and program 140-pound robots capable of navigating the field and completing game objectives. Throughout the weekend, alliances of three teams worked together to score points and outmaneuver their opponents in a series of high-energy matches.

“Events like the FIRST Robotics Competition highlight the creativity, collaboration and determination that students bring to engineering and technology,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “At DC, we are proud to welcome these young innovators as they test their ideas, work together and begin to see how their abilities can lead to meaningful careers in STEM and the skilled trades.”

After two days of intense competition, the winning alliance was Bolton’s Alpha Dogs (alliance captains) with their partners Mississauga’s Theory6, and Kincardine’s Kinetic Knights.

Congratulations to all participating teams for their ingenuity and perseverance throughout the weekend. By tackling engineering challenges and collaborating under pressure, these students are developing the curiosity, resilience and technical expertise that will help shape the future of science, technology and innovation. Hosting this competition reflects DC’s commitment to creating meaningful connections between the community and its programs in technology, engineering and applied trades.

New Durham College research supports children’s emotional development in the early years

Durham College (DC) has received nearly $360,000 in federal grant funding to lead a new research initiative that will support early childhood educators in helping preschool children build strong social and emotional skills during their most formative years.

The project – Transforming Early Years Education with Simulations: Building Teacher Efficacy to Support Children’s Social-Emotional Growth – is designed to develop conversational and immersive mixed-reality training simulations that allow educators to practice responding to real-life situations they encounter in early learning environments before they face them with children and families.

The initiative is led by Social Impact Hub Project Lead and faculty member in the Faculty of Social and Community Services, Corrine McCormick-Brighton, and brings together expertise from DC’s Mixed-Reality Capture (MRC) Studio and Ontario Tech University as well as community partners from the Regional Municipality of Durham Children’s Developmental and Behavioral Supports, Grandview Kids, and Simulation Canada. It is funded by the College and Community Social Innovation Fund through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

The project is rooted in local data showing ongoing challenges in children’s social and emotional well-being across the Durham Region. These early experiences, including how children manage emotions, focus attention and interact with others, play a significant role in shaping long-term academic success, health, and well-being. By focusing on early intervention, the project supports an in-demand workforce while helping educators feel more confident and prepared in their roles.

“Early childhood educators play a critical role in shaping children’s social and emotional development during some of the most important years of life,” said McCormick-Brighton. “By using mixed-reality simulations based on real early learning and child care classroom experiences, this project creates opportunities for educators to practice responding to complex situations in a safe and supportive environment. Our aim is to strengthen educator confidence and ultimately support better outcomes for young children.”

Developed with essential expertise from the MRC Studio, the simulations reflect real scenarios drawn from community experience and regional needs. Aligned with the MRC Studio’s commitment to exploring cutting-edge technologies and creating immersive applications that power education and training, the initiative demonstrates how extended reality can move learning beyond passive instruction to training through doing. Educators will engage in realistic scenarios that allow them to practice, reflect, and strengthen their approach in a safe, supportive environment.

“Simulation is designed to meet the training needs of a diverse range of users,” said Kelly Bradstock, Project Partner, Child Care and Early Years Division. “For newer educators or students, the simulation may offer more prompts and guidance to help users meet the learning objectives. For more experienced ECE’s, the simulation can provide more complex situations to provide a richer learning opportunity. With the right design, the learning experience is unique to each user.”

While the research is informed by local priorities, its impact is expected to extend beyond Durham Region. The project will help inform early childhood education programs at the college level and contribute insights that can be shared with early learning communities across Canada.

In keeping with DC’s Social Impact Hub’s mandate to advance community driven applied research, this project will strengthen social-emotional learning in the early years, fostering positive outcomes for children and families, while helping to build more resilient, inclusive, and supportive early learning environments. 

Durham College joins Canada-ASEAN Business Council Nuclear Energy Working Group

Durham College (DC) has joined the Canada-ASEAN Business Council (CABC) Nuclear Energy Working Group, creating new opportunities to help shape the future of global energy workforce development.

Through this new partnership, DC will contribute to critical conversations about nuclear energy, clean power, and the upskilling and reskilling required to support a rapidly evolving global energy sector. The collaboration underscores DC’s role as a leader in applied, industry-aligned education and reinforces its commitment to supporting innovation, sustainability and economic growth at home and abroad.

“Joining the CABC Nuclear Energy Working Group reflects Durham College’s commitment to supporting Canada’s leadership in clean energy and workforce development,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to contribute our expertise on a global stage, strengthen international relationships, and help shape the skills and talent strategies that will power the future of energy.”

The CABC, Canada’s only entity officially associated with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), works to strengthen trade and investment between Canada and Southeast Asia. As a member of the Nuclear Energy Working Group, DC will engage in knowledge sharing, partnership development and sector-specific initiatives that support workforce readiness in highly regulated, safety-critical industries.

DC’s Corporate Training Services (CTS) will lead the college’s involvement, with a primary focus on workforce development for the energy sector. This includes customized training solutions for industry and government partners, as well as potential research and innovation collaborations through the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

“We are pleased to welcome Durham College as a member of our Nuclear Energy Working Group. Durham College’s applied expertise in nuclear energy, green technologies, and industry-aligned training brings a practical, workforce-focused perspective that is essential as Southeast Asian countries advance their clean energy ambitions,” said Wayne Farmer, CABC President. “Their strengths in capacity building and curriculum development will add meaningful value to the Working Group’s efforts to support nuclear deployment and long-term energy transition across the region.”

For students, the long-term impact could include expanded partnerships, new co-op and work placement opportunities, and more industry-focused applied research projects. Insights gained through the working group will also help inform future programming and curriculum development, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills needed in a growing sector that continues to see significant investment worldwide.

A Year in Review: 2025 at Durham College

Durham College (DC) marked another year of growth, achievement, and community impact in 2025. From launching bold new programs and strengthening industry partnerships, to celebrating a record-breaking Convocation and hosting thousands of visitors on campus, our students and employees continued to shine. Across athletics, applied research, and community initiatives, DC remained a place where talent is nurtured, curiosity is encouraged, and careers are launched.

Explore some of the highlights that made 2025 a year to remember.

News

Durham College unveiled a new Strategic Vision that will guide the institution’s priorities and decision-making for the years ahead, strengthening our focus on students, employees and community impact.

The Minister of Colleges and Universities Nolan Quinn visited DC to experience the hands-on learning of our in-demand culinary and hospitality programs alongside local MPPs.

A new bursary established by The Joyce Family Foundation is expanding access to preparatory programs at DC and helping remove financial barriers for learners.

At our state-of-the-art Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, we welcomed Ajax Fire and Emergency Services for a unique, hands-on emergency elevator rescue training session.

A $75 million provincial investment in post-secondary institutions will expand construction and planning programs across Ontario, ensuring DC will play a central role in strengthening the province’s workforce.

Thousands of future students and supporters visited campus at our Open Houses in Spring and Fall as well as our Program Information Nights, giving learners and families the chance to explore programs, meet employees and experience life at DC.

The annual Mature Student Event showcased why our supportive services and flexible delivery models make DC the perfect place to help returning students strengthen their professional skills.

We highlighted student ingenuity across engineering and sustainability challenges at the DC Innovation Showcase, where learners presented creative projects and connected with industry partners.

There was a real buzz on campus when DC was officially recognized as a Bee Campus by the Pollinator Partnership, recognizing our sustainability efforts to support pollinators and protect biodiversity.

DC marked a historic milestone at Spring Convocation 2025, celebrating the achievements of our career-ready graduates.

A collaborative applied research project was launched to empower parents with cognitive challenges by developing tools and supports that enhance daily living and family well-being.

A strategic partnership with NAIT was formed to advance AI literacy in Canada’s energy sector, equipping learners and industry with skills for emerging technologies.

The Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation expanded its capabilities with a new grant to strengthen industry-aligned training and applied research in craft beverage production.

Indigenous artist Emma Whiteye created space for reflection and connection within the DC community.

Accolades

DC was once again named one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges by Research Infosource Inc., affirming its national leadership in applied research and innovation.

Durham College faculty were recognized this year for excellence, innovation and teaching, with Dr. Teresa Avvampato honoured with the OSOT Innovation and Impact Award, Dave Hawey earning a prestigious Worldchefs Global Certification, and Professor Chris Daniel named an Outstanding Educator by OACETT.

The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture was honoured with a 2025 Durham Region Accessibility Award for its commitment to inclusive design and community impact.

DC student Abigail Ansell received golden recognition from Colleges and Institutes Canada, celebrating student leadership and achievement on a national stage.

Durham College graduate Daylan Belsey claimed first place in animation at the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge, highlighting student talent and creative achievement on a global stage.

DC proudly celebrated its 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients, recognizing graduates who are making meaningful contributions in their fields and communities. Two of those recipients were awarded one of Ontario’s highest honours for college alumni. Jeremy Burns and Aaron Dale, co-founders of the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP), received the Premier’s Award for their groundbreaking work supporting military veterans.

Durham College graduate Andre Ata received the prestigious New World Award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education in recognition of his contributions to global learning through transformative international experiences.

Programs and Academics

This year, we welcomed the first classes in our new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician and Interior Decorating programs.

DC’s new partnership with RPA Canada is creating an innovative pathway for accounting graduates to advance their professional credentials.

We partnered with Achēv to train licensed automotive service and body repair technicians on how to properly service electric vehicles.

Our partnership with Seven Generations Education Institute helped to expand access to healthcare education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in Northern Ontario.

A new program to strengthen mental health care skills for healthcare and community service professionals was launched to respond to growing demand for compassionate, evidence-informed care.

The AI Hub launched a new executive development program to help professionals get up to speed with artificial intelligence and its transformative impact.

Five new industry-driven programs launching in Fall 2026 were announced to help learners build career-ready skills aligned with evolving workforce needs.

An international partnership with Ayrshire College was launched to drive innovation in industry and skills development, expanding global learning and collaboration opportunities.

A new diploma-to-degree agreement with Trent University was established to accelerate talent development for the supply chain sector through a clear pathway from college to university.

Experiential Learning

Students applied their skills through online game development for the Barrett Centre, gaining real-world experience while supporting a community partner.

A partnership with Community Care Durham is delivering workplace training that supports personal support workers and strengthens local care services.

DC students deepened their learning by travelling around the globe, gaining global perspectives through international experiences.

DC partnered with the Lakeridge Health Foundation for the NightShift 2025 emergency simulation event, giving students and community members hands-on experience in fast-paced medical scenarios.

Sport Management and Sport Business Management students had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work as ambassadors for Major League Baseball and Stand Up To Cancer at Game 2 of the World Series.

DC Supply Chain students embraced experiential learning through real-world challenges, including the SAP ERPSIM competition and collaborative international projects.

Athletics

The Durham Lords completed a successful winter season, with men’s basketball capturing the OCAA championship and earning national silver, volleyball teams posting strong performances and the varsity curling squad making a memorable return.

DC volleyball players shone on the national stage, showcasing talent, teamwork and competitive excellence.

Sitting volleyball became a hit at DC, highlighting inclusive sport opportunities on campus.

The Durham Lords men’s basketball team captured the OCAA championship and earned CCAA silver, marking a standout campaign. Our volleyball teams also posted strong performances, and the revived curling squad made its mark on the ice.

The Fall 2025 season was another successful one for Lords, with our Women’s Rugby Sevens club became the first in OCAA history to win four consecutive provincial championships. The men’s rugby team brought home provincial silver while DCSA Executive Chairwoman Megan Bent, who is also serving as Student Governor on the DC Board of Governors, wrapped up her stellar collegiate rugby career and welcomed her sister as a fellow student.

As we close the chapter on 2025, we celebrate the achievements, creativity, and dedication of our students, employees, and partners, and look ahead with excitement to all that 2026 will bring to the Durham College community.

DC recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

The Durham College (DC) community came together this week to recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

Students and employees gathered in the Rotary Global Classroom of the Oshawa campus on Thursday, December 4 for a memorial event to honour the victims of École Polytechnique de Montréal and all those affected by gender-based violence.

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the attack on December 6, 1989 when a gunman entered a mechanical engineering classroom at the Montreal school, killing 14 young women and injuring 13 others.

Their memories were top of mind for everyone who attended the event, including DC President, Dr. Elaine Popp.

“This tragedy shook post-secondary institutions across the country — including communities like ours — and continues to resonate deeply more than three decades later,” said Dr. Popp. “As we reflect on the lives lost that day, we renew our commitment to confronting the hatred that fueled this violence and the gender-based discrimination that persists today.”

The gathering included memorial readings, with the names of the Montreal victims read aloud, as well as a moment of silence. There was also a powerful musical performance by Aqua Nibii Waawasskone, accompanied by the dancing of Rachel Taunton, Indigenous Communities Outreach Coordinator with DC’s First Peoples Indigenous Centre.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women will officially be observed on Saturday, December 6, and all flags on campus will be lowered to half-mast.

Durham College remains committed to fostering a safe, inclusive campus free from all forms of violence. The college encourages every member of the DC community to speak out against harmful behaviours and help end gender-based violence.

“We are called to create communities where every person can pursue their dreams without fear and live free from intimidation or harm,” said Marisa Mei, Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Coordinator. “Education, awareness, and strong allyship are essential in the fight to end femicide and gender-based violence. By challenging harmful assumptions, supporting survivors with compassion, and advocating for systems and policies that uphold safety and accountability, each of us has the power and the responsibility to make a difference.”

Durham College’s Voices in Durham honoured at Canadian Student Journalism Awards

Durham College (DC) Journalism – Mass Media students have earned national recognition for their work amplifying local voices through Voices in Durham — a community-driven storytelling project that connects students with local organizations across Durham Region.

The project received an Honourable Mention in the Community-Driven Project of the Year category at the 2025 Canadian Student Journalism Awards, hosted by J-Schools Canada. As the only Ontario college recognized among this year’s winners, DC stood proudly alongside leading university teams from across the country.

Community collaboration and impact

Launched in 2021, Voices in Durham was developed to help address what’s known as a news desert — communities where shrinking newsroom resources have left residents without consistent local coverage. In these areas, stories about social issues and everyday lives often go untold.

Through the project, DC students collaborate with local organizations and community partners to bring stories to light — with empathy, understanding, and an emphasis on community connection. Topics explored have included homelessness, mental health, criminal involvement, and racism, aligning with priorities identified in Durham Region’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.

“This initiative shows how collaboration between students and community partners not only strengthens local journalism but also ensures that important stories are told with care and accuracy,” said Teresa Goff, Program Coordinator of the journalism programs at DC. “It gives students the chance to practice journalism that listens before it speaks.”

The project spans multiple courses in the college’s Journalism and Broadcasting programs and has been supported through funding from Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada and partnerships with organizations, such as Safety Network Durham, Revitaled Reintegration, Their Opportunity, Autism Homebase, and the Clarington East Food Bank.

Student leadership on display at CAJ Unplugged 2025

With support from the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ), the students have built on this momentum and helped organize CAJ Unplugged: Voices in Durham 2025, a two-day event set to take place November 15 and 16.

Working together with DC’s Collaboragency team, students will support social media promotion, videography, and event coordination, continuing the project’s focus on hands-on learning and community storytelling.

Journalism student Lauren Cole, one of two producers for this year’s event, said the experience has deepened her understanding of the role local journalism plays in community life.

“As a journalism student, it’s important to know the community you report on,” she said. “This project helped me learn about the non-profits that make a real difference in Durham Region.”

Fellow producer Juan Suarez and Indigenous peer mentor Eva Ritchie are also contributing in key leadership roles, with Ritchie collaborating with traditional knowledge keeper Jim Adams to ensure Indigenous perspectives are represented respectfully throughout the event.

From classroom learning to national recognition, Voices in Durham continues to demonstrate the impact of community-first storytelling — and the growing role of DC’s Journalism students in revitalizing local news.

Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture honoured with 2025 Durham Region Accessibility Advisory Committee Award

Accessibility is at the heart of Durham College’s (DC) Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture, where every element of its work — from design to programming — is focused on ensuring everyone can learn, grow, and connect through food.

This commitment has earned the Barrett Centre a 2025 Accessibility Advisory Committee Award from the Region of Durham, which honours organizations and individuals making outstanding contributions to accessibility across the region.

Received in recognition of its work at the Ajax Urban Farm, the Barrett Centre is reimagining how agriculture and experiential learning can be inclusive for all. The farm was built with universal design principles in mind, and features accessible picnic tables, crushed gravel pathways, raised garden beds, and regular rest stops to support individuals with reduced mobility or complex needs. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) signage and handheld supports further ensure that everyone can communicate and participate fully in on-site activities.

“Creating inclusive spaces where everyone can learn and experience the benefits of sustainable agriculture is an important part of our mission,” said Carey Yeoman, Partnership Manager at the Barrett Centre. “This award reflects the dedication of our team and community partners who help us break down barriers every day.”

Through weekly on-farm partnerships and seasonal programming this summer, the Barrett Centre collaborated with various community organizations, including:

    • The Alzheimer Society of Durham Region, whose clients engaged in gentle movement, reminiscing, and hands-on activities.
    • The Community Development Council of Durham – Adult Newcomers, which focused on community building, agri-education, and language skills.
    • Grandview Kids, where participants explored communication, sensory experiences, and nature connections.

“This was our first time hosting one of our Active Living programs entirely outdoors, and it was largely made possible due to the accessibility considerations of the farm’s design and team,” said Sara Sellers, Manager, Alzheimer Society of Durham Region. “They took the time to learn about our client’s needs, abilities, and interests and completed our Dementia Friendly Community training beforehand to expand their dementia skills and knowledge.”

The Barrett Centre’s Food IQ workshop series also extends this work beyond the farm, engaging groups such as the Brain Injury Association of Durham to build food literacy, skill development, and hands-on learning focused on affordable, nutritious, and replicable meals.

As the farm season winds down, the Barrett Centre will continue advancing accessibility initiatives through the Food IQ series and other community-based programs across Durham Region.

“Our goal is to keep building on this momentum,” Yeoman added. “We want to continue demonstrating that agriculture can be a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone.”

The Barrett Centre received the award at the Region of Durham’s Annual Accessibility Awards Celebration in September.

Research project empowers parents with cognitive challenges

Durham College’s (DC) Social Impact Hub is at the forefront of a groundbreaking community-engaged research project designed to identify gaps and determine how to improve support for parents with cognitive challenges.

Research shows that while many such parents are able to hold jobs and live independently with minimal support, the average global rate of custody removal for those that become parents is significantly higher than any other group of children.

“Parents with cognitive challenges should not have to prove themselves capable of parenting and yet, they do,” explained Amanda Cappon, DC faculty member who led the project with DC faculty member Kay Corbier. “They are held to a level of scrutiny higher than any other parent, which was the motivation for this project – to challenge the stigma of being a parent with cognitive challenges and mitigate trauma to families.”

The project, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) through the College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF), brought together a wide network of collaborators, including the Starfish Parent Support Program, the Regional Municipality of Durham, Durham Children’s Aid Society, Lake Ridge Community Support Services, and Brock University. Students from DC were hired as research assistants, gaining hands-on experience in community collaboration and applied research while contributing to positive social impact.

Raising Resilient Families: Empowering Parents with Cognitive Challenges highlights the importance of early intervention, community collaboration, and support systems rooted in respect and dignity, influencing lasting change that promotes the well-being of families and prevents unnecessary disruption.

At the heart of the project was a deep commitment to amplify the voices of parents with cognitive challenges, ensuring their lived experiences shaped the project at every step. The multi-phase project included:

  • Interviews with parents and service providers to identify barriers, strengths and gaps in support.
  • Training to over 30 staff from local service providers in the evidence-based Step-by-Step Parenting Program, developed by team member Dr. Maurice Feldman, to build awareness of the unique needs and challenges of parents with cognitive challenges and enhance their skillset for supporting them.
  • Collaborative sessions with parents and service providers to design supports, such as a post-birth plan and parent support group model.

The Raising Resilient Families Final Report identifies the need for systemic change — enhanced supports for parents, tailored training for service providers, and policies that reduce bias and promote equity. The project team will actively share the knowledge gained from this project over the next few months, aiming to spark further conversations and actions that will positively impact practice and the lives of families in our communities.

“The role of parents is critical, as they have the ability to quite literally shape future generations,” said Deanna Cooper, Research Associate and DC Alumni. “As individuals with cognitive challenges embark on their journey of becoming parents, we’re committed to improving the individualized support they may need to foster a safe and healthy environment for their children.”

Regional Chair’s Classic Honours Roger Anderson, supports DC students and mental health programs

The 2025 Regional Chair’s Classic in Memory of Roger Anderson brought together community leaders, generous sponsors, and avid golfers to support students and mental health initiatives across Durham Region.

Held on Thursday, June 12 at Deer Creek Golf and Country Club in Ajax, the 27th annual tournament welcomed 184 participants who rallied behind a common cause—helping students at Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University, as well as supporting patient-focused programs at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences.

This year’s event raised an impressive $268,000, bringing the tournament’s total fundraising efforts to over $8 million since its inception.

“Each year, this tournament plays a vital role in supporting students in need at Durham College and Ontario Tech University, as well as the invaluable youth programs at Ontario Shores Centre. It is a true testament to the power of community and generosity,” said Regional Chair John Henry. “There is no better way to celebrate Roger Anderson’s remarkable legacy of service than by coming together for a fantastic day on the golf course, united in our commitment to these meaningful causes.”

The cheque presentation featured Fred Eismont, Regional Chair’s Classic Committee Chair; John Henry, Durham Regional Chair; Warren Anderson (Roger Anderson’s son); Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President; Lee Hays, Executive Director, Advancement, Ontario Tech University; and Tracy Clegg, CEO, Ontario Shores Foundation.

The 2026 Regional Chair’s Classic is scheduled for Thursday, June 11.

Durham College hosts events to empower and inspire Black students

This spring, Durham College (DC) welcomed hundreds of elementary students from the Durham District School Board (DDSB) to campus for two inspiring events; The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference and Empower Her, dedicated to Black female students.

Each event served as an invaluable opportunity for young Black students from Grades 6 to 8 to celebrate their identity and culture while getting a glimpse of what the future might hold. They spent their time at DC immersed in workshops and engaging with entrepreneurs, community leaders, and organizations, enjoying thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities and moments of connection.

“It was wonderful to welcome these young Kings and Queens to our campus,” said Dr. Sadie Goddard-Durant, Director of DC’s Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. “Through our collaboration with DDSB, we sought to enable them to curate a safe space for young students to reflect on how they embody Black Excellence, and a how post-secondary education might factor into that. We’d love to see them again at DC!”

  • The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference

    “The Cypher is really about creating opportunities for young Black males to see themselves represented in a variety of different ways,” explained Sean McCormack, event Co-Chair.

    Each year, the event empowers young Black males to be leaders and allows their skills and passions to shine, according to Cypher Co-Chair Lynda Dortelus.

    “I want them to see themselves as rising kings,” she said. “It doesn't matter what you do in life, you will rise up and you will overcome whatever barriers that are coming your way because you're capable, and because there are Black kings out there that have done the same.”

    That powerful message was embraced by students like Shemar Burke from Oshawa’s Sunset Heights Public School and Elijah Carrington from Bellwood Public School in Whitby. By the end of the eventful day, they were both thinking about their futures in post-secondary education.

    “I don't really know about colleges, but now that I've had a look around, I will consider DC. It was really fun here,” said Shemar.

    “It feels like college is a place where you can relax and have freedom,” added Elijah.

  • Empower Her Conference

    The success of the Cypher event naturally led to interest in a similar event for young Black girls. Empower Her launched in 2019, and this was the event’s second year at DC.

    The goal of the event is to help Black girls recognize their strength, identity, and potential. This year’s theme, ‘Queens Rising,’ emphasized the inherent power and dignity of each participant. The conference promotes high expectations, goal setting, and self-awareness, equipping attendees with tools to navigate their academic and personal futures with confidence and purpose.

    “This is an event that is meant to inspire young girls to think about how they can use their voice, their lived experiences, and dream big in order to create a bright future,” said Kerron Slack, Vice-Principal at Maamawi iyaawag Public School in Oshawa.

    The participating students met a wide range of successful professionals, from doctors and lawyers to hairdressers, dancers, choreographers and singers.

    “It allows you to really connect with your sisters, which is other Black females, and create some lasting relationships as well.”

    Those opportunities were embraced by all of the students, including Saige Brown and Olivia Persaud from Fallingbrook Public School in Whitby.

    “In the jewelry making workshop, we were talking to this girl who is a Black entrepreneur,” said Saige. “She started making jewelry, and she goes to different trade shows. It was very nice to see someone close to our age doing something that we could possibly do.”

    “I would recommend this event because you get to meet new people and do fun activities,” added Olivia.

Photos of the events were generously provided by Natural Image Photography.