Creating Pathways for Black Youth in STEAM 

In British Columbia, Ethos Lab Educational Society is redefining what innovation looks like by ensuring that Black youth are not only participants but leaders in the fields shaping our future. With support from the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada initiative, the Galaxy Project is building a scalable model of culturally grounded STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education that prepares youth for the age of artificial intelligence. 

About the Galaxy Project 

The Galaxy Project will expand access to inclusive and future-ready STEAM learning for over 2,500 Black youth across Greater Vancouver. The initiative includes hiring a Program Director, training youth facilitators, developing an equity-focused AI curriculum, and delivering hands-on workshops in schools and at Ethos Lab’s innovation hub. By integrating storytelling, technology, and community connection, the program helps youth see themselves as creators, innovators, and leaders within digital spaces. 

“In the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), equity matters now more than ever. This grant will allow us to scale a culturally grounded, equity-centered AI curriculum to equip young people, especially those from underrepresented communities, with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” says Ethos Lab. 

Addressing Barriers in the Age of AI 

Systemic inequities continue to limit access to STEAM learning and career pathways for Black youth. Geographic, financial, and institutional barriers restrict participation, while mainstream education systems often fail to create culturally safe environments where Black students can thrive. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, these inequities risk deepening, leaving underrepresented youth without access to the tools or understanding needed to navigate or influence the digital future. 

Ethos Lab’s community consultations and recent AI Summit revealed strong demand from youth and families for culturally affirming, tech-driven learning environments. With mentorship from industry leaders and support from the Vancouver School Board’s Office of Technology and Anti-Oppression, the Galaxy Project will directly address these gaps. Bringing relevant, identity-affirming STEAM opportunities into classrooms and communities across the region. 

Expanding STEAM Access with Support from the Rideau Hall Foundation 
Through the Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada initiative, Ethos Lab is scaling its innovative approach to reach more youth and strengthen systemic change in education. Catapult funding supports the development of the Galaxy Project’s new delivery model, helping Ethos Lab refine its curriculum, train facilitators, and integrate programming within schools to reduce barriers related to cost and access. 

Beyond funding, Catapult connects Ethos Lab to a national network of organizations working to make education more inclusive and community-driven. Together, the Rideau Hall Foundation and Ethos Lab are helping to close opportunity gaps in STEAM education, ensuring that Black youth across Canada have the tools, confidence, and representation needed to shape the future of innovation.