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Black Legacy in STEM Highschool Conference

Logo for the Black Legacy in STEM High School Conference, highlighting engineering outreach initiatives and celebrating Black innovators in STEM.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ontario Tech University’s Engineering Outreach is proud to present the Black Legacy in STEM Conference, an immersive experience designed to inspire and empower Black high school students (Grades 9–12) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Developed by Black Ontario Tech University STEM students and staff, this conference encourages students to explore STEM fields, build key skills, and connect with like-minded peers.

Throughout the day, students will engage in hands-on STEM workshops, develop essential skills in personal and tech development sessions, and gain valuable insights during a roundtable discussion with Black undergraduate students and alumni. They will also take part in a post-secondary information session, where they’ll learn about university pathways and opportunities.

The conference will conclude with an exciting STEM challenge, where students can apply their problem-solving skills and compete for a chance to win a prize. This is an incredible opportunity for Black youth to gain real-world STEM experience, expand their networks, and take meaningful steps toward their future.

Lunch will be provided!

We are grateful to our sponsors, Actua, NSERC, and Hydro One, for helping to make this program free of cost to participants.

 

Session Details

Cost Per Participant: FREE
Location: Ontario Tech University, North Oshawa Campus
Date: March 1st, 2025
Activity Time 

Registration

9:30 am - 10:00 am

Welcome + Introductions + Orientation

10:00 am - 10:20 am

Icebreaker

Ontario Tech University - FEAS Details

 10:20 am - 11:00 am
Guest Speakers 11:00 am - 11:40 am
Personal Development Workshops 11:40 am - 12:00 pm

Lunch Break

Round table talk (with Undergraduate Ontario Tech students and alumni)

 12:00 pm - 1:10 pm
Tech Development Workshop 1:10 pm - 1:40 pm

Hands-On STEM Workshop

 1:40 pm - 3:00 pm
Presentation and Judge Deliberation 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Announce Activity Grand Prize Winner 3:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Closing & Thanks! 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm
For any questions, please email Kimberly Davis, kimberly.davis@ontariotechu.ca

Meet The Speakers

Abigail Ralph

Headshot of a smiling young woman with dark hair pulled back, wearing a white shirt and displaying a warm expression.

Abigail Ralph is a visionary leader, advocate, and trailblazer dedicated to breaking barriers in education, research, and community empowerment. At just 17, she co-wrote a novel published by the University of Toronto and conducted groundbreaking research in neural engineering at the Karolinska Institute, home of the Nobel Prizes. Recognizing the systemic barriers faced by Black students in STEM, she founded the MOR Initiative, a grassroots organization aimed at supporting Black students applying to STEM university programs that has now raised over $40,000 to provide financial aid and mentorship to aspiring scholars.

Her dedication to creating meaningful change has earned her national recognition, including being named among Canada’s Top 100 Black Women and receiving the City of Toronto’s Award for Building Community through Science, Engineering, and Technology. Now a McCall MacBain Scholar at McGill University completing her Master’s degree in Neuroscience, selected from over 700 Canadian applicants, Abigail continues to champion equity, inspiring future generations, and redefine what’s possible.

Rohan Service

Professional portrait of a man in a suit and tie, wearing glasses, showcasing a confident demeanor.

Rohan Service is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience across the automotive, nuclear, and oil & gas industries. With a strong track record of success, Rohan has developed expertise in project management, engineering and operations, working with top-tier companies to drive innovation and efficiency.

Throughout his career, Rohan has contributed to a variety of high-impact projects, consistently delivering results that enhance operational performance and safety. His deep industry knowledge and commitment to excellence have positioned him as a trusted leader in his field.

Rohan is passionate about giving back to his community and is excited to share his experience as an engineer.