Emole Futures Initiative
Our programs

Programs that build real pathways

Four connected programs take young people from early curiosity to leadership, combining hands-on learning, mentorship and career exposure.

Ask about the next cohort See the programs
Younger learners take part in a group STEM activity at the public library in Kingston.
Black Youth Career Pathways

One pathway, from Grade 2 to graduation

STEMGrades 2–8
AIGrades 9–12
BusinessGrades 9–12
LeadershipYouth leaders
Careers · Education · Entrepreneurship
Volunteers guide younger students through a hands-on STEM activity.
Grades 2–8In progress

Black Youth in STEM

Hands-on science, technology, engineering and math for younger learners. Students explore, build and solve problems together in small, age-based cohorts, guided by university student instructors and youth volunteers.

  • Hands-on experiments and team challenges
  • Problem-solving and collaboration
  • Early exposure to STEM careers
  • FormatIn person, Saturdays
  • WherePublic library, Kingston
  • Fall 2026Sep 26 – Nov 14 · 23 students
  • CohortsGrades 2–4 and Grades 5–8
Ask about the next cohort
Grades 9–12In progress

Black Youth in AI

A practical introduction to artificial intelligence for high school students: how AI works, how to use it well and responsibly, and how it connects to future careers.

  • AI literacy and practical ChatGPT use
  • Prompting and responsible use
  • Final project: each student builds their own AI assistant
  • FormatLive online classes
  • WhenSundays
  • Fall 2026Sep 27 – Nov 15
  • Length8 weeks
Ask about the next cohort
Black Youth in Business students tour a manufacturing facility during an industry visit.
Grades 9–12Completed summer 2026

Black Youth in Business

An 8-week business and entrepreneurship experience. Students learn business fundamentals, work with mentors, solve real-world problems and present their ideas.

  • Business fundamentals and entrepreneurship
  • Mentorship and leadership
  • Industry exposure, including a visit to Apogee Ceramics
  • FormatVirtual + in person
  • Summer 2026Jul 4 – Aug 29 · 4 students
  • Length8 weeks
  • Next cohortTo be announced
Join the waitlist
Emole youth volunteers and instructors standing together.
Youth leadersIn progress

Black Youth in Leadership

Leadership through service. Graduates of our Business program return as volunteers, supporting younger learners in our STEM program while building their own confidence and leadership.

  • Communication and responsibility
  • Mentoring and peer support
  • Leading activities with younger learners
  • WhoBusiness program graduates
  • WhereBlack Youth in STEM sessions
  • SeasonFall 2026
  • ModelLeadership through volunteering
Ask about leadership roles
Career exposure

Black Youth in Careers

Career conversations run across all our programs. In August 2026, high school students joined a live online panel with career speakers Thandi Nkole and Tayo Akinwale, who shared their journeys, lessons learned and practical advice.

See our 2026 milestones →
Black Youth in Business students stand together at the front of a classroom.
Questions

Frequently asked questions

Who can join?

Our programs are designed for Black youth and other underrepresented youth. Each program lists its grade range.

How do I register?

Contact us and we'll share the next cohort's dates and registration details.

Are scholarships available?

Thanks to our sponsors, scholarship places have been available for our STEM program. Ask us about support for the next cohort.

Where do programs take place?

In-person programs run in Kingston, Ontario. Black Youth in AI and our career panels run online.

Questions about a program?

We'd love to help you find the right fit for your child.

Contact us Support a Youth