BY PAUL JUNOR
The emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields in the Ontario curriculum is poised to open new careers for students in the future. The issue of the underrepresentation of Black girls in the STEM field is an issue that BLACK E.S.T.E.E.M seeks to address. The acronym E.S.T.E.E.M stands for Entrepreneurs, Scientists, Technicians, Engineers, Economists, and Mathematicians according to its website: wwwblackesteem.org. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing Black girls’ interests and confidence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The brainchild of Shaylee Graham, a former educator, the organization targets Black girls in Ontario between the ages of 10 and 13 in order to provide them with the tools to continue to build their self-confidence, expand their minds, display diligence, perseverance, and resilience all while exploring the areas of S.T.E.M .
The website cites several studies that highlight the underrepresentation of Black women in STEM careers, lower expectations of teachers for Black girls, reduced chances of completing advanced STEM courses in high schools, and their lived social realities of dehumanization in STEM programs. In order to counteract these negative experiences, the organization’s mission is deeply intertwined with the work of anti-racism, anti-Black racism, anti-oppression, and equity. This mission also includes helping Black girls to deepen their self-confidence and reimagine their presence in STEM fields as entrepreneurs and innovators.
The inclusive and encompassing mandate of this organization is to work with communities across Ontario to create culturally relevant learning spaces that nurture Black girls’ curiosity, creativity, and imagination. It is a great idea to start this initiative when these girls are in elementary schools in order to foster an affirming, supportive and inclusive space for them to develop their innate abilities and untapped potential. It is during these early years that major decisions are made with respect to choices of future careers.
In order to achieve positive outcomes for these young Black girls, a culturally relevant pedagogy is utilized to provide innovative STEM programming. Additionally, there are partnerships developed between Black women and entrepreneurs in STEM careers, which are complemented by a creative and innovative curriculum.
Programs offered are:
Mentorship
Provides mentorship to all participating girls in STEM careers across all disciplines.
Training
STEM conferences, workshops, and programming offer hands-on applications to girls.
Empowerment
Individual and group social-emotional activities empower Black girls to navigate systems.
Engagement
Black girls engage in new experiences and are provided opportunities that empower them to navigate the world as problem solvers.
The Board of Directors at BLACK E.S.T.E.E.M are:
- Shaylee Graham (Founder and CEO)
- Shannon Adams (Director of Content and Design)
- Alicia Pitt (Secretary)
- Annette Grosi (Treasurer)
Anyone interested in learning about Black E.S.T.E.E. M can check the following:
Website: https://blackesteem
Instagram:@blackesteeemofficial
LinkedIn:black-esteem
Youtube:www.youtube-Black Esteem
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