Durham Schools Launch Dual Conferences to Empower Black Students Across the Region

Black Students in Durham Region Empowered Through Leadership and Identity Conferences

OSHAWA, ON — More than 500 students from across Durham Region are set to participate in two transformative conferences designed to uplift, empower, and inspire the next generation of Black leaders.

Hosted by the Durham District School Board (DDSB) in partnership with Durham College, the Empower Her Conference and The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference will take place on May 5 and May 6, 2026, at the Durham College Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre in Oshawa.

These back-to-back events bring together Grade 7 and 8 students, educators, mentors, and community leaders to engage in meaningful conversations around identity, leadership, and opportunity.

Empower Her Conference: Uplifting Black Girls

Now in its sixth year, the Empower Her Conference focuses on supporting Black-identifying girls by creating a space where they can explore identity, build confidence, and connect with mentors.

Through interactive workshops, storytelling sessions, and mentorship opportunities, students are encouraged to embrace their voices and envision future pathways in education, leadership, and career development.

The initiative reflects ongoing efforts within DDSB to support equity in education and ensure that Black students see themselves represented in leadership roles.

The Cypher: Building Confidence Among Black Male Students

On May 6, the focus shifts to The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference, a large-scale initiative aimed at supporting Black male students across the district.

The event will include participation from:

• 96 DDSB schools
• Over 440 students
• 140 staff members
• 20 community partners

The conference offers students access to entrepreneurs, post-secondary institutions, and community leaders, creating opportunities to explore academic and career pathways while building confidence and community.

A highlight of the event is keynote speaker Ekow Nimako, a Ghanaian-Canadian artist internationally recognized for his Afrofuturistic LEGO creations. Nimako’s work has gained global attention for its innovative approach to storytelling and representation, bringing Black history and culture into classrooms and communities.

Representation, Belonging, and Opportunity

Together, the two conferences emphasize a shared goal: ensuring that Black students feel seen, supported, and empowered within the education system.

By connecting students with mentors who reflect their experiences and potential, these initiatives aim to:

• Strengthen student identity and confidence
• Promote academic achievement and leadership
• Foster inclusive and equitable learning environments

The collaboration between DDSB and Durham College highlights the importance of community partnerships in education, particularly when addressing systemic barriers and expanding opportunities for Black youth.

A Growing Focus on Equity in Education

Programs like Empower Her and The Cypher are part of broader efforts across Ontario to improve outcomes for Black students by focusing on mentorship, representation, and culturally responsive programming.

As school boards and post-secondary institutions continue to work together, initiatives like these are helping to shape a future where Black students are not only included, but empowered to lead.

Event Details:

• Empower Her Conference: May 5, 2026 (8:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
• The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference: May 6, 2026 (8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
• Location: Durham College – Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, Oshawa

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