What is the initiative?
Accelerate STEAM Education is a community-guided maker education initiative for middle and high school learners in Regent Park, using tools like electronics, physical computing (Arduino), and digital fabrication (3D printing) to improve access to STEAM education and open pathways to STEAM careers. STEAM education—integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics—represents a critical pathway for preparing learners for an ever-evolving world. However, significant barriers prevent many students from accessing quality STEAM learning. While this cannot be quickly solved globally, it can be addressed at least in Regent Park through hands-on programming that connects learners with mentors who help build a strong STEAM identity.
What is your connection to your chosen community?
Regent Park is my home. My connection here goes beyond residency. I volunteer at local events, DJ occasionally at neighbourhood gatherings, and run maker workshops at Nelson Mandela Park Public School and RPCHC’s Youth Enrichment Academy. Last year, I organized Regent Park’s first-ever Maker Festival, an annual celebration of STEAM that brought together Canada’s Minister of AI and Digital Innovation, educators, sponsors, community leaders, volunteers and curious university students to inspire the next generation. Living and working here, I see myself in these young people and the barriers they face. Gaps in representation, accessibility, and engagement mean far too few are gaining the skills and confidence needed to thrive in STEAM fields.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I am looking forward to the opportunity to test, refine, launch, and scale my project in a meaningful way for our beneficiaries. Most importantly, I look forward to helping learners see themselves as capable STEAM practitioners and develop a strong identity connection to STEAM fields by connecting them with mentors and role models who provide guidance and inspiration.