Planting the Seeds of STEM: Sprouting Science Inspires the Next Generation 

For many young people, a love of science starts with discovering the world through hands-on exploration. But for many Black and Indigenous youth in Nova Scotia, opportunities to connect with science in culturally relevant ways are still limited. 

The Discovery Centre, Nova Scotia’s leading science education organization, is changing that through its Sprouting Science program – a free, hands-on STEM experience for African Nova Scotian youth ages 8 to 17. With support from the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada grants, the Centre is expanding this program to reach more communities, empowering young people to see themselves as scientists, innovators, and leaders. 

Growing Confidence and Curiosity 

Sprouting Science invites youth to explore plant science, hydroponics, and gardening while learning about sustainability and food systems. Participants plant and tend shared community garden plots, experiment with soil-free growing, and discover the science behind agriculture while connecting these lessons to their culture and community. 

The program has already had lasting impact in communities such as Spryfield, Truro, Middle Sackville, and Westphal. With expansion funding, the Discovery Centre is partnering with Imhotep’s Legacy Academy and Business is Jammin’ to reach even more Black youth through summer camps and after-school clubs, while new collaborations with Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey and Ulnooweg will bring the program to Indigenous learners as well. 

“Being selected for the Catapult Canada Fund means that Discovery Centre can increase access to Sprouting Science camps for equity-deserving youth who have been unable to experience the program due to limited capacity. This investment will enable us to grow from one summer program to year-round programming across multiple communities, reaching 150 young people who will not only grow their own food but grow their confidence in STEM” say the Discovery Centre team.  

Bridging Gaps in Education and Representation 

STEM programs like Sprouting Science play a vital role in addressing educational inequities that have persisted for generations. In Nova Scotia, only 53% of African Nova Scotian students meet or exceed expectations in Grade 6 math, and 49% in writing, compared to provincial averages that are significantly higher. Representation in STEM remains limited, and early exposure to hands-on science is key to closing these gaps. 

Sprouting Science makes STEM exciting and empowering. By connecting scientific learning to real-life experiences like growing culturally familiar foods and exploring climate-conscious farming, youth can see themselves as part of the future of science and innovation. 

Expanding Impact with support from the RHF 

With support from the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada initiative, Discovery Centre is scaling Sprouting Science to meet growing demand and reach youth who might otherwise be turned away due to limited space. Through Catapult’s collaborative learning network, Discovery Centre also joins a national community of youth-serving organizations focused on innovation, leadership, and sector sustainability. 

By investing in programs like Sprouting Science, the Rideau Hall Foundation is helping ensure that every young person can discover the wonder of science and the confidence to change the world.