May 2026
Bytes, Beats, Buckets and Beauty Brings Black Students Together Across Georgina
Watch Bytes, Beats, Buckets & Beauty - Georgina After the Bell (duration: 2m9s)
Keswick H.S. opened its doors after hours to welcome Black students and families from across Georgina for a community-building event designed to foster connection, creativity and belonging. Students had the chance to ask questions, connect with peers from other schools, meet staff and community partners and participate in fun, hands-on sessions including computers and gaming, hair and aesthetics, music and basketball. Watch this short video to learn more about the experience.
Centre for Black Student Excellence
We 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.
YRDSB News and Events
YRDSB Invites Family and Community Members to Apply for Advisory Committees
York Region District School Board is accepting applications for membership on two advisory committees that provide important family and community perspectives at the Board level.
Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee (PEAC) offers families a meaningful opportunity to share their perspectives and support family engagement at the Board level to improve student achievement and well-being. Committee members work together to help strengthen family engagement and ensure that diverse voices are reflected in public education. Committee members work together to help strengthen family engagement and ensure that diverse voices are reflected in public education. Applications are open from May 14 to June 10, 2026.
Equity and Inclusivity Advisory Committee (EIAC) supports the school board’s commitment to providing equitable and inclusive learning and working environments in all schools and workplaces of the Board. The committee provides advice on the implementation of the Board’s Equity and Inclusivity Strategy, policies and procedures and helps ensure that the Board addresses all dimensions of diversity. Applications are open from May 11 to June 15, 2026.
Learn more about the PEAC and EIAC committees and how to apply.
Summer Institute Registration Now Open
York Region District School Board’s Summer Institute offers academic, recreational and athletic programs and activities with intentional links to the Ontario Curriculum for students entering Senior Kindergarten to Grade 8. Register for one week or all six. Learn more about the Summer Institute program and how to register.
Careers & Scholarships Event - Exploring Post Secondary Pathways with YRDSB
Date: May 20, 2026, from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. at YRDSB Education Support Centre, 39 Dunning Ave, Aurora
The Centre for Black Student Excellence presents the Careers & Scholarships Event - Exploring Post Secondary Pathways with YRDSB. Join us for an engaging opportunity to hear from guest speakers, visit displays and interact with a variety of post-secondary representatives.
Guest Speakers
Cheryl Yarde - Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN)
Paul Jones - Sportscaster for Toronto Raptors (NBA)
Topics of discussion
- Pathways
- Educational Opportunities
- Scholarships
Dinner will be provided. Please register by Friday, May 15, 2026, to help us plan the event. We welcome all students, staff and families to attend and participate.
Understanding and Navigating the Education System: Families of YRDSB Black Students - Virtual Information Session
Date: Monday, May 25, 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.
Upcoming Community Events and Announcements
Youth School Success Initiative (YSSI)
Date: Registration now open
The Youth School Success Initiative (YSSI) is a partnership among NACCA, MACCA, YRAACC and ANCHOR and funded by the Regional Municipality of York. It aims to support over 300 Black youth in Grades 4-8 with culturally affirming, wrap-around programs that build skills, confidence and mental wellness in a supportive community. The program has flexible delivery (in-person, virtual and hybrid). Learn more and register or email info@naccacommunity.ca.
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.
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 the end of May
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!
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. Applications opening soon. The deadline is July 31, 2026 for these Scholarships.
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
Brothers Who Care Economic Pathways to Trust
Date: April 16-May 26, 2026, Registration dates
Economic Pathways to Trust is a community-driven initiative designed to support Black students in exploring future pathways and seeing themselves reflected in careers such as Finance, Law, STEAM and public safety. This six-week program brings together partners across the public, private and community sectors, including: YRAACC, York Regional Police, and other leading public, private and community organizations.
Students will benefit from direct connections with professionals, increased confidence, financial literacy, and real-world exposure that supports both achievement and post-secondary success. Families will also have opportunities to engage and access practical tools to support their children’s journey.
The program is designed to create meaningful, lasting opportunities for Black youth across York Region. Registration is now open: https://forms.gle/hcVuQ9f8TPNeuDmN8
Brothers Who Care also offer the I SEE ME Futures campaign and culminating symposium, that intentionally creates space where young people can begin to see themselves in the futures they aspire to.
To learn more about Brothers Who Care and their programs please visit https://brotherswhocare.com/. Please contact info@brotherswhocare.com for more information.
Black Youth Mental Wellness Empowerment Series - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Dates: Multiple Dates
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 4: May 14 - Jun. 25, 2026
For any questions and registration, please email Josie Rose at jrose@naccacommunity.ca.
The Alliance of Jamaican Alumni Associations Annual Graduates Bursary
Date: Application deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.
The Alliance of Jamaican Alumni Associations (Toronto) (AJAA) invites all graduating Ontario secondary students of Jamaican descent who are accepted into a post-secondary program to apply for the 2026 Graduates Program bursary and awards ceremony. There will be an awards ceremony on Sunday, June 28, 2026. For eligibility criteria and to apply visit: https://www.ajaacanada.com/graduates/. If you have questions or need additional information, please email graduates@ajaacanada.com.
Boys II Men: Black Male Empowerment - City of Markham
Date: Monday, May 18, 2026, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Aaniin Community Centre
This event is designed to bring together young Black males and adult mentors for an afternoon focused on mentorship, connection, and friendly competition. Open to boys ages 13-19 (Youngins) and Adults for (Old Heads).
What to Expect:
- “Old Heads vs. Youngins” basketball tournament
- Opportunities for mentorship and meaningful connection
- Prizes to be won
- A positive, community-centered environment that promotes empowerment and well-being
Pull up for a day of mentorship, connection, and competition. Register now!
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.
Arts & Culture Jamaica Scholarship Fund
Date: Application deadline is July 1, 2026
The Arts & Culture Jamaica Scholarship Fund offers financial support to talented young people in our community pursuing a career in the arts. The scholarship is awarded annually to students of Jamaican heritage who are pursuing post-secondary education in the Arts This would include Fine Arts; Performing Arts, including Dance, Music & Drama; Design; Literature; Other Cultural forms. Students must be accepted into a full-time program in a Canadian College/University. This fund is available to Undergraduate and Graduate students. Learn more and register or email us at acjamtoronto@gmail.com.
Kuumba Summer Camp Applications - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: July 6 - August 14, 2026, 9:00am - 3:30 pm, Terry Fox P.S. 161 Sawmill Valley, Newmarket
Kuumba blends STEAM learning with African, Caribbean and Black Canadian cultural experiences. Youth take part in hands-on workshops, Music, Dance, Swimming and more…all in a safe, affirming environment.
- Register Early.
- Limited Spots Available
- Before and After Care Available
Summer Reading and Robotics Summer Camp - The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
Date: July 6 - August 14, 2026, 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Ashton Meadows P.S., 230 Clavert Rd., Markham, L6C 1T5
Join MACCA for this 6 weeks Reading & Robotics Summer Camp for ages 6-12.
For more information on our Summer Reading Robotics program please email summercamp@macca1987.com or to register online.
Blueprint Summer Program, U of T, St. George CampusDate: July 6 - July 31, 2026 summer in person
(followed by biweekly events from Oct 2026 - Feb 2027)
Blueprint is an academic enrichment program designed for Black students interested in science and engineering. Blueprint is open to Canadian students currently in Grades 10 and 11 who identify as Black, and are interested in careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). The program consists of four weeks in July in-person at the University of Toronto's St. George campus followed by year-long engagement. This in-person program invites students to think about design and innovation—applicable to any engineering field. Students will have the opportunity to participate in two engineering-focused summer courses, fun and educational excursions, and community-building events. Learn more and register.
Future M.D.S+ In Stem 2026 Summer Program - U of T, Medical Sciences
Date: July 6 - 22, 2026 summer online opportunity
Interested in medicine, healthcare, or STEM careers?
Applications are now open for the 2026 Future M.D.s+ in STEM Virtual Summer Program! Students will participate in virtual shadowing, networking, career-prep workshops, and academic enrichment opportunities led by undergraduate, graduate, and medical students. Apply Here (No Fee to Apply).
Learn more from our website.
Early Bird Application: Deadline: May 20, 2026
Scholarship Deadline: June 1, 2026
Final Application Deadline: June 20, 2026
Youth School Success Initiative (YSSI) Program Kuumba Summer Program - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: July 6-August 14, 2026, 6 week program, Registration begins May 1, 2026
Welcome to Kuumba Summer Camp, where creativity and cultural enrichment unite! Our camp is rooted in Africentric themes and learning outcomes, providing a unique and immersive experience for campers ages 6-13 years old. At Kuumba, participants can expect a blend of activities that celebrate African, African-Canadian and Caribbean culture, fostering a sense of pride, identity, and community.
- Cultural awareness and drumming sessions
- Reading & Art Programming
- Mental Wellness Workshops
- Experiences designed to build teamwork, confidence and community connection
- Interactive STEAM sessions
- Field Trip & Swimming
Contact us at 905-781-6222, info@naccacommunity.ca for more information.
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
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)