Umoja Robotics is more than just a team, it is a movement transforming the STEM landscape for Black youth

BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been seven years since Umoja Robotics was launched in 2018 under the auspices of the African-Canadian Christian Network (ACCN). The mission of the ACCN is to improve the life outcomes for Black youth and their families and its vision foresees a society in which Black youth lead lives: free from violence, achieve academic success, become leaders and role models, and contribute as citizens of their community.

Umoja Robotics is one of several programs that ACCN offers. It offers the Nurturing Promise, Harvesting Potential (NPHP) as well as the Independent Schools Program and Parent 2 Parent. They are geared to empower youth, educate families, and enrich the community.

In a press release issued by ACCN, it states, “Umoja Robotics is more than just a team, it is a movement dedicated to breaking barriers and transforming the STEM landscape for Black youth.” As the first Black robotics team to compete in the first Robotics competition in the United States, it is optimistic about competing in the World Championships in Houston, Texas from April 16^th – 19^th, 2025.

“Through free robotics programs, that includes mentorship, Umoja is paving the way for underrepresented communities to thrive in STEM.”

The promotional material of Umoja Robotics states, “Our program was born out of a critical need to address the underrepresentation of Black youth in STEM fields, providing them with a dynamic and equitable space to excel and innovate.” It lists some of the benefits of the program:

• Hands-on learning
• Mentorship
• Strong sense of community
• Acquiring essential skills and invaluable life lessons that extend beyond the classroom

The press release highlights the importance of ensuring that underrepresented Black youth are able to access STEM opportunities. By rising above systematic barriers, participants in the program, over the last three years, have gone on to thrive and excel academically and professionally in diverse fields. The program boasts a 100% high school graduation rate with 99.5 % going on to post-secondary destinations.

Representation is key, and Umoja ensures that its mentors reflect the students they serve, creating a sense of belonging and inspiration. By focusing on high academic standards, it is a symbol of resilience, excellence, and community where student leaders are destined for the future of STEM as technological leaders and innovators.

I spoke to Cherryl Lewis, Executive Director of ACCN and Lead Mentor on Wednesday, February 26^th, regarding the success of the program. She is excited by the quality of students who are participants and looks forward to recruiting additional sponsors. She states in the press release “Umoja Robotics was founded on the belief that every child, regardless of background, should have access to opportunities that shape their future. Through free robotics programs, that includes mentorship, Umoja is paving the way for underrepresented communities to thrive in STEM.” Lewis who has been with ACCN from the inception in 2004 states further, “Our holistic approach blends hands-on learning with mentorship, fostering an environment where students excel academically and develop leadership skills essential for STEM careers and beyond.”

I spoke to Natasha Kelly, Project Coordinator of ACCN. She is well acquainted with the outstanding students who are part of the 2024-2025 cohort. She is passionate about working with these students who come from all over the GTA as they work on different projects.

Umoja Robotics is looking for donors interested in helping the team make it to the World Championship.

There are four levels of sponsorship packages with different benefits such as:

Supporter

• Official donation receipt
• UMOJA Team 7712 supporter T- Shirt
• Personalized thank you email
• Sponsorship acknowledgement

Bronze

• Includes certificate
• Name listed on promotional materials
• Company logo placed on Umoja’s webpage

Silver

• Includes Bronze, plus
• Invitation to competitions as honoured guest
• Recognition on website and social media

Gold

• Includes certificate
• Name listed on promotional materials
• Company logo placed on Umoja’s webpage
• Invitation to competitions as honoured guest
• Recognition on website and social media
• Your logo displayed on the robot and demo at company