March 2026
Students, families and community members gathered at Middlefield Collegiate Institute to celebrate Black History Month through a hands-on event focused on STEM learning and the contributions of Black scientists and innovators.
The event was one of four Black History Month celebrations being held across the York Region District School Board this month, bringing families together for evenings of learning, connection and celebration.
A few highlights from the event include:
- Coding with Black women engineering students from Ontario Tech University
- Ice-cream making using everyday household material with learning connected to Black innovators
- Bringing families together to honour Black excellence in STEM
Community partners and youth organizations were also on hand to share resources and connect with families.
Watch the video to learn more about the event.
We also invite you to visit our Centre for Black Student Excellence on the board website to find information about our programs, Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy, resources for students and families and links to community agencies.
To send your inquiries or feedback, please email: BlackStudentExcellence@yrdsb.ca.
We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable March Break.
YRDSB News and Events
Kindergarten Registration Opened January 16, 2026
Get a head start on your child’s education by registering early. Early registration helps families secure spots in before and after-school care. We can’t wait to welcome our new little learners to Kindergarten for an exciting year of learning, growth and new friends! Learn more about the YRDSB Kindergarten program and how to register.
Understanding and Navigating the Education System: Families of YRDSB Black Students - Virtual Information Session
Date: Monday, March 9, 2026, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Virtually
Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meetings where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools. Learn more and register.
Post-Secondary Accessibility Fair
Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Sir William Mulock Secondary School
YRDSB and YCDSB will be hosting a Post-Secondary Accessibility Fair for Grades 9-12+ students, families, and staff to connect with Admissions, Recruitment, Accessibility, and Student Support Offices. There will be a special presentation, Accessing Support in Post-Secondary: How Accessibility Services Help You Succeed, by the Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC) and information booths from the participating post secondary institutions. Learn more and register.
Y2 LEGACY - A Black-Centred Approach to Leadership, Innovation and Excellence - Summer Learning Program
Date: June 30 to July 24, 2026, 8:45 a.m. to 3:32 p.m.
Y2 LEGACY is a transformative summer learning program that empowers students through a Black-centred lens celebrating leadership, innovation, and academic excellence. By building foundational knowledge and identity-affirming skills, students emerge with the confidence and capabilities to lead in their schools and communities. The foundational skills students gain in the summer will support them in navigating the school year with confidence and leadership.
Through credit-bearing courses grounded in technology, literature, business leadership, and community engagement, Y2 LEGACY provides a dynamic and culturally responsive learning experience. Students engage in experiential learning, build essential academic and life skills, and receive mentorship that supports long-term success.
Participation in Y2 LEGACY is competitive, and space is limited. Registration opens on March 24, 2026. Learn more and register.
Camp Black Brilliance - YRDSB - Kindergarten Program
Date: July 6 - July 24, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Camp Black Brilliance is a program for children of Black Families who are entering Junior and Senior Kindergarten in a YRDSB school in September 2026. A school location in each area has been chosen to run the program but subject to change based on registration.
Camp Black Brilliance offers families the opportunity to get to know the Kindergarten program and have their children experience their introduction to schooling in a way that is culturally responsive and affirming of their identity, through experiential learning.
Register by June 1, 2026. Learn more and register.
Upcoming Community Events and Announcements
Kuumba Program and Rapid Access Therapy Program - York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families
Dates: Ongoing
Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) is a counselling and therapy program offered through York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families. Kuumba at York Hills is a specialized mental health and wellness program for the Black and Black-identifying community that provides a safe place centred on culture, compassion, and empowerment.
We also offer mental health crisis support through our new partnership with Southlake Health in Bradford, Newmarket, Aurora, East Gwillimbury and Georgina.
Contact Us
905-503-9560 Ask for “Kuumba Program”; kuumba@yorkhills.ca; www.yorkhills.ca/contact Online form - Ask for the “Kuumba Program” ; Rapid Access Therapy Program booking link; Join our mailing list. Interested in booking a group? Want to collaborate? Contact Teresa Knibb, Clinical Manager at tknibb@yorhills.ca.
Black Youth Mental Wellness Empowerment Series - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Dates: Multiple Dates, October - June
Eight week Africentric workshop for Black youth (Grades 5-12) in York Region
Culturally affirming sessions on resilience, identity, and empowerment through peer connection, activities, and wellness tools.
Hybrid: In-person and virtual.
NACCA Hub, 449 Eagle St, Newmarket. Led by a mental health clinician.
Ages 12 and under: 6-7 pm
Ages 13 and up: 7-8 pm
Cohort 3: Mar. 12 - Apr. 30, 2026
Cohort 4: May 14 - Jun. 25, 2026
For any questions and registration, please email Josie Rose at jrose@naccacommunity.ca.
SANKOFA Cultural Identity Programs - York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC)
Multiple dates October-June
SANKOFA Mentoring, Cultural Identity Programs. In person at Bur Oak S.S., 933 Bur Oak Ave, Markham, from 10 am - 1:00 pm on the following dates;
March 7, April 18, May 2, 30, June 13, 2026 and virtually each Wednesday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Learn more about this and other Sankofa Programs.
KINNECTYOUTH Mentoring Program - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
Date: In person weekly on Wednesdays, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Join us for hands-on, interactive creativity and entrepreneurship workshops with opportunities to gain professional experience. There will be presentations from community leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs with individual and group mentorship. There will also be access to technology and weekly in-person meetings.
Aaniin Community Centre (Youth Room) 5665 14th Ave, Markham, ON L3S 3K5. For more information, please contact kinnectyouth@macca1987.com or 905-946-9998.
Learn to play STEEL PAN - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
Date: Every Saturday until May 30, 2026
Back by popular demand, learn to play STEEL PAN every Saturday. Adults’ session is 12-1 p.m., and Children are from 1-2 p.m. at 505 Hood Rd, Unit 5, Markham, ON L3R 5V6. Please register. For more information, please contact info@macca1987.com or call 905-976-9998.
Student and Family Advocate Program - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
Date: ongoing
The Student and Family Advocate Program (SFA) is a Black community based program designed to support Black families and students as they engage with the education system. For more information and to enroll, please contact sfa@macca1987.com or call 289-338-4041
Edge Tutoring Program - Parents of Black Children (PofBC)
Parents of Black Children’s EDGE Tutoring Program is designed to provide sustained tutoring to Black students. The program supports students as they build their skills, confidence, and EDGE forward on their academic journey. 60 students from kindergarten to Grade 12 are currently receiving high-touch tutoring through the EDGE Tutoring Program. Learn more.
Africentric Virtual Campus - Parents of Black Children (PofBC)
The ‘O’ is an online virtual educational experience that will give students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 access to free virtual drop-in tutoring, educational tools, and other culturally relevant resources — all delivered through an Africentric lens.
- Free drop-in virtual tutoring where students can get homework and assignment help in real-time *
- Live chat and interactive features
- Curated spaces specifically designed to centre and uplift Black students
- and much more!
Market Simulation Challenge - Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto
Date: Registration opens in February, Challenge is on April 29, 2026
The High School Market Simulation Challenge provides exceptional high school students with an introduction to the field of finance and an opportunity to learn through simulated business scenarios. Students will participate in a morning workshop designed to introduce them to financial markets and the RIT Market Simulator platform, then in the afternoon they will have the opportunity to demonstrate their newly learned skills through a Market Simulation Challenge using the RIT Market Simulator. No prior preparation is necessary for this challenge, and all required resources will be provided before and during the competition. Learn more and register.
Scholarships and Awards - Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN)
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) has a vast network to help with preparing to apply for Scholarships and Awards. A unique slide deck has been created from the most recent workshop and is available for you to view and learn from.
The Scholarship page has a Scholarship Application Tips and Tricks page to assist you as well as links to our upcoming 15th Annual BFCN Scholarships and the 12th Aim 2 Achieve Awards. The deadline is July 31, 2026 for these Scholarships.
City of Vaughan Career Expo
Date: March 2, 2026, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Father Ermanno Bulfon Community Centre, 8141 Martin Grove Rd
The City of Vaughan is hosting ‘Talent City Vaughan: 2026 Youth Careers Expo’ for anyone ages 15-29 looking for a job this year.
Bring your resume and explore potential career paths with Vaughan employers. Learn more and register.
2026 Writing in Colour: Grade 11 Essay Colloquium Award - University of Waterloo, English Department
Due Date: March 6, 2026
The Department of English at the University of Waterloo invites grade 11 students who are Black, Indigenous, or students of colour to submit an essay of between 500 to 1000 words to the 2026 Writing in Colour: English Grade 11 Essay Colloquium Award. The topic for this year is community. Learn more and contact the Awards Committee at englaward@uwaterloo.ca.
Free Mental Health First Aid Training for the Black Community - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: March 7, 2026, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Newmarket Public Library, 438 Park Ave, Newmarket
NACCA is offering 15 free spots for Mental Health First Aid for the Black Community - training designed to build skills to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges or crises.
Training Format
- Module 1: Self-paced (must be completed by March 6, 2026)
- Modules 2 & 3: In-person full-day session on March 7, 2026
For any questions please contact sedwards@naccacommunity.ca or to register.
Community Care & Resource Mapping - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: March 12, 2026, 5:30 – 6:30 PM (Virtual)
Explore self and community care while learning about wellness resources available through NACCA and other organizations supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ community members in York Region. Open to Black 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and allies! Learn more and register.
Black Student Success 101 - Parents of Black Children (PofBC) and Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators (ONABSE)
Date: Secondary Part 2 - March 16, Virtual, from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Black students work hard — but too often, that effort doesn’t translate into the results they deserve.
Black Student Success 101 is a culturally affirming, skills-based webinar series created to close that gap.
Hosted during Black History Month, these one-hour, highly interactive workshops provide practical, ready-to-use strategies that students can apply immediately — regardless of subject area. Learn more and register.
Kuumba March Break 2026 - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: March 16-20, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., NACCA Community Hub, 449 Eagle St, Newmarket
NACCA’s Kuumba March Break Camp returns with an innovative and enriching mini-camp experience designed for Black youth ages 8–12 in Newmarket. Grounded in culture, creativity and community, the camp blends technology, arts, learning and mental wellness to create a dynamic and supportive environment where young people can explore, grow and build confidence.
What to Expect
- Tech-Focused STEAM Workshops: Interactive sessions designed to foster creativity, strengthen digital literacy and develop problem-solving skills.
- Reading & Arts Programming: Creative expression through literacy and arts-based activities rooted in culture, storytelling and identity.
- Engaging Group Activities: Collaborative experiences that promote teamwork, leadership development and meaningful peer connection.
- Mental Wellness Workshops: Interactive sessions centred on Black joy, resilience, identity and emotional wellbeing.
- Field Trip: Fun and active experiences that round out a balanced week of learning and recreation.
Reach Ahead to Kinesiology - March Break Program for Black and Indigenous Youth - University of Toronto
Date: March 16-20, 2026
The Reach Ahead to Kinesiology March Break Program for Black Youth is open to:
- Black youth aged 15 – 17 who are currently enrolled in grade 10 or 11 at a high school within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), or who currently reside in the GTA. (The GTA includes Toronto, Durham, Halton, Peel, and York.) [Note that students in grades 9 or 12 are not eligible];
- Students who are interested in the study of health, sports and recreation, physical activity, and/or movement are encouraged to apply;
- Students must agree to attend the program every day, be on time, follow the program guidelines, and abide by the student code of conduct.
- The University has paused the requirement to be fully vaccinated. Please note this requirement may be reinstated on short notice should public health conditions or guidance change. Learn more and register.
March Break Programs for Elementary and Secondary Students - University of Toronto
Date: March 16-20, 2026
Ignite your curiosity with University of Toronto Schools Camps. Hands on Math, Parliamentary Debate, World Games, Cyanotypes, Textiles & Book Making, Integrative Thinking, Vex Robotics, Bright Lights in the Lab. Learn more and register and Bright Lights in the Lab Scholarships information.
March Break - Day in the Life Event - McMaster University
Date: March 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Our Day in the Life event gives Black students in grade 10-12, a meaningful opportunity to experience what university can truly feel like.
- Spend the day on campus with current McMaster students
- Attend a simulated university-style lecture and tutorial
- Join a “Belonging in Uni” conversion with the BSSC and campus partners
- Explore different academic programs and pathways, and ask questions.
STEAM-Design Program Application - University of Toronto Summer Program
Date: Final Application Deadline - March 29, 2026, Program runs July 3 - 31, 2026
The STEAM Design Program is a summer experiential learning opportunity from the Temerty Faculty of Medicine for grade 10–11 students interested in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math applied to health-care challenges.
Summer Reading and Robotics Summer Camp - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
For more information on our Summer Reading Robotics program please email summercamp@macca1987.com.
Design Your Future Summer Youth Internship - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
Design Your Future Summer Youth Internship is a youth group guided by MACCA.
As a group we come together to hang out, discuss important issues, plan youth events, and to make a difference in our community.
As a group we make sure youth in York-Region have a voice, and we help meet the needs of other youth through events and programs we develop and participate in.
Joining our group is a great way to meet new friends, gain new skills, get volunteer hours, and become a leader in your community.
Meetings are held at 505 Hood Road, Unit 5 in Markham. All youth are welcome.
For more information email bleyp@macca1987.com or call 905-946-9998
I CAN Swim Program - Aurora Black Community (ABC)
Dates: Apply April - August
This program is intended for families experiencing financial barriers who would not otherwise be able to enroll their child in swimming lessons. If this reflects your current situation, we encourage you to apply. Our goal is to create access, build confidence, and ensure every child has the opportunity to learn this life-saving skill. Learn more and register
Black Applicant Meet & Greet - McMaster University Open House
Date: May 9, 2026, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Peter George Centre for Living and Learning (PGCLL)
During May @ Mac, the BSSC hosts our signature Black Applicant Meet & Greet - a dedicated space where Black applicants and their families can:
- Meet current Black students, staff and faculty
- Learn about scholarships, bursaries and awards that support Black student success
- Hear concrete stories about transition, residence, and finding community
- Ask the questions that might not get asked in larger sessions
We want students to walk into their first day at McMaster already knowing faces, names, and where to find us. Learn more and register.
2nd Annual Black Youth Excellence Gala - Black York Region (BYR)
Date: May 29, 2026, 7:00 - 11:00 p.m., JC Banquet Convention Centre, Scarborough
The Black Youth Gala is an event to celebrate their accomplishments. Youth will have the opportunity to receive scholarships for post-secondary. In addition, Black Youth artists and fashion designers will also have the chance to showcase their work in the gallery and opening performance portion of the event. Apply for a scholarship, showcase your art and buy tickets to the Gala. Learn more and register.
Community Agencies
Learn more about Black community agencies that provide support in your area.
The Alliance of Educators for Black Students (AEBS)
AEBS is committed to promoting well-being and excellence in achievement for students of African/ Caribbean heritage.
Aurora Black Community (ABC)
The Aurora Black Community Association (ABC) is led by a dedicated group committed to the work needed to dismantle anti-racism and discrimination, elevate and marginalize voice and bridge cultures. The ABC community is proud to have led the town of Aurora to officially declare February Black History Month.
ANCHOR Formerly Vaughan African Canadian Association
ANCHOR offers a program that aims to find your child’s trouble areas in understanding vocabulary, spelling, and grammar. This program will help strengthen subject comprehension, boost confidence, and improve their reading and writing skills.
Black York Region Youth (BYR Youth)
Black York Region Youth (BYR Youth) was founded in 2020 with the purpose of combating anti-Black racism, systemic racism, anti-Indigenous hate, and discrimination in all of its forms within York Region and its surrounding communities.
Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
At MACCA, Students will follow a grade-appropriate curriculum. Curriculum content will evolve to include the study of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) and will be Afri-centric.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
NACCA’s vision is to focus on African positive identity formation/ Rites of passage as a foundation for mental wellness, and supporting children in developing a positive sense of self. NACCA offers culturally relevant Mental Health Education and Counseling support programs for Black youth and families; financial literacy program; educational programs for the entire family; food security program; presentations and workshops to educate about racial prejudice & bias to reduce discrimination; annual scholarship program and more!
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN)
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2011 and continues to serve and support local Black communities. Based in Vaughan, Ontario, but proudly serves and supports Black communities across the province. BFCN provides free and low-cost programs, advocacy, and resources, and connects people with other local organizations and services.
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC)
YRAACC/Sankofa Program offers an African-centered curriculum with activities that include workshop sessions for students to explore their racial and cultural identity, self-esteem, critical thinking, self-reflection, teamwork, and community building. The program’s framework is based on The Seven Principles (The Nguzo Saba). The principles are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith).
Parents of Black Children (PofBC)
OMO Africentric virtual campus tutoring initiative, offered by Parents of Black Children, is a free high-touch tutoring program for Black students. Students receive tutoring twice weekly in French, Math, and English (Language Arts). Tutoring takes place on the Omo Africentric Campus. 1-on-1 tutoring support provided. To learn more, watch The Omo Africentric Campus is Back! video or visit Parents of Black Children.
Volunteer Opportunities
Students are encouraged to connect with community organizations in their local communities to find volunteer jobs and to develop leadership and team-building skills. Here are a few links to review.
BFCN – Black Foundation of Community Networks
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (yorkregionaacc.ca)
Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)