Black Canadian Engineering Student Earns National Recognition at Humber Polytechnic

Samara Ocansey Sustainable Engineering Leadership Recognized

TORONTO – A fourth-year engineering student at Humber Polytechnic is gaining national recognition for her leadership in sustainable building design, mentorship, and advocacy for greater diversity in STEM fields.

Samara Ocansey, a student in Humber’s Bachelor of Engineering – Sustainable Building Engineering program, was recently honoured at the 2026 Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Awards of Excellence. The awards recognize innovation, leadership, and impact across Canada’s public college and institute sector.

Ocansey was recognized for her academic achievement, peer leadership, and commitment to supporting equitable pathways into engineering and sustainable construction careers.

As founder of Humber’s Women in Engineering Club, she has helped create opportunities and support networks for women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She also works as a peer tutor through Humber’s Black Student Support and Engagement Centre, helping students navigate engineering education and academic success.

Representation in STEM Matters

Ocansey’s recognition comes at a time when conversations around diversity in engineering and climate-focused industries continue to grow across Canada.

Sustainable construction and green infrastructure are expected to play a major role in Canada’s future economy, yet women and Black professionals remain underrepresented in many engineering disciplines.

Through her leadership at Humber, Ocansey has become part of a growing generation of young Black Canadians helping shape the future of sustainable design and climate innovation.

According to Humber Polytechnic, Ocansey plans to pursue a career designing energy-efficient and environmentally responsible buildings after graduation.

Building the Future Through Sustainability

The Bachelor of Engineering – Sustainable Building Engineering program at Humber focuses on low-carbon construction, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally conscious building practices.

The recognition also reflects Humber’s broader push toward sustainability leadership. Humber’s Director of Facilities Management, Spencer Wood, was separately recognized at the CICan Awards for leading major campus sustainability initiatives that have reduced natural gas use and carbon emissions at Humber’s North Campus by approximately 70 per cent.

Together, the awards highlight how institutions and students alike are contributing to Canada’s evolving sustainability and engineering sectors.

Black Excellence in Education and Innovation

For Vision Newspaper readers, Ocansey’s story represents more than an academic achievement. It reflects the growing impact of Black Canadian leadership in industries that will define the future — from climate action to infrastructure and engineering innovation.

Her work supporting women in STEM and mentoring fellow students also underscores the importance of representation and community-building in higher education.

As Canada continues investing in sustainable development and green infrastructure, young leaders like Ocansey are helping ensure those industries become more inclusive and reflective of the communities they serve.

Vision Newspaper continues to spotlight Black Canadian achievement, leadership, and innovation shaping communities across Canada and the diaspora.

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