THE PROJECT
Black Boys Code is Canada’s largest non-profit provider of computer science education for Black youth. With 12 chapters across Canada, they aim to inspire Black youth to confidently realize their potential with essential digital literacy tools and training as a foundation for a future career in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) chapter of Black Boys Code is known for delivering workshops to Black boys, but the organization also recognizes that Black girls are especially vulnerable to systemic barriers preventing equitable access to STEM skills. This project meets the growing demand for accessible workshops by providing the organization’s signature Exposure Workshops to girls in the GTA, led by Black female STEM professionals and volunteers.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The workshops covered coding, HTML and machine learning. Participants were especially excited to explore Roblox—an opportunity to look “under the hood” of a favourite video game and learn how it works. The girls also got to participate in a mock Shark Tank where they earned real cash prizes for their innovative ideas. Every participant received a certificate recognizing their achievements at the end of the workshops, contributing to a sense of pride. “For some of these kids, it was the first time they had ever received an academic award,” noted Bryan Johnson, Executive Director, Black Boys Code.
Funding from CIRA enabled Black Boys Code to become the largest provider of computer science education for Black youth in Ontario. The organization exceeded its targets, reaching over 370 girls in the GTA. They actively engaged with the local community through extensive local outreach efforts, presenting in Black neighbourhoods, at schools, and partnering with community organizations to raise awareness and drive enrollment. The positive reception and increased participation underscored the need for STEM workshops in the community.
In post-workshop surveys, 83% of participants reported increased self-confidence and 100% demonstrated improved coding skills, with many expressing enthusiasm for continued learning. One chapter leader reported to Black Boys Code, “Your time has bridged the STEM education gap and provided life-changing opportunities for our youth. The smiles, excitement in their eyes and eagerness to learn are clear signs of your incredible impact on their lives.”
Based on the success of this project, Black Boys Code plans to scale their programming, expanding to additional communities and developing new workshops that address the evolving digital realm. Bryan also described their goal of ensuring participants stay connected to the mentors who led the workshops. “There are not that many Black women in tech in the first place, so we want to keep that momentum going.”
RELATED LINKS
- Black Boys Code website: https://blackboyscode.ca/
