On Wednesday, June 18th, 2025, the Peel District School Board (PDSB) hosted its first Kuumba & Umoja ESTEAM Conference for Black-identifying Grade 7 students. The full-day event took place at the University of Toronto Mississauga’s Instructional Centre, bringing together about 400 students from 60 schools across Brampton, Caledon, and Mississauga.
The name of the conference reflects two powerful Kwanzaa principles—Kuumba (creativity) and Umoja (unity). These values shaped a day rooted in African-centered traditions, cultural pride, empowerment, and Black joy.
According to Mora Carruthers, Acting Manager of Communications & Engagement at PDSB, the conference aimed to increase representation in: Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (ESTEAM) and encourage students to explore diverse career pathways. Two dynamic keynote speakers inspired the students.
- Jennifer Laipo, Founder & CEO of The STEM Girl, delivered a talk titled “Reality by Design—Crafting Your World.” She emphasized that students can shape their own futures through imagination, planning, and persistence.
- Clayton Ellis, PDSB’s Science and Technological Education Instructional Coordinator, shared “Living My Best STEM Life.” His personal story highlighted the possibilities that open when curiosity and determination meet opportunity.
Their messages reinforced that Black youth not only belong in ESTEAM spaces, but they can also lead them.
The conference featured nearly 30 interactive workshops where students worked directly with: mentors, educators, and industry professionals. Some workshop titles included:
- Building STEM Skills
- Introduction to Engineering
- Black Entrepreneurship in the Skilled Trades
- Portrait Photography
Facilitators came from respected organizations such as: Vision of Science, McMaster University, IMBUK2 + Education, and One Voice One Team.
Students: built, experimented, problem-solved, and imagined. They walked away with practical strategies for navigating ESTEAM pathways and a deeper sense of possibility for their futures.
For many students, the conference marked a milestone as they prepare for their final year of elementary school. The day celebrated the achievements of people of African descent (particularly Black Canadians) who have shaped ESTEAM fields.
It also created space to talk openly about the opportunities and barriers students may face while pursuing these disciplines. By highlighting both the challenges and the potential, the conference offered a balanced, forward-looking vision. Above all, it celebrated: Black brilliance, resilience, and leadership.
The Kuumba & Umoja ESTEAM Conference was a call to action. It encouraged students to: dream bigger, embrace their cultural roots, and see themselves as innovators, creators, and leaders in ESTEAM.
For those eager to learn more about PDSB’s initiatives, visit www.pdsb.on.ca.
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