DBEN - Durham Black Educators' Network

08/11/2026

08/05/2026

Registration is now open for the fall 2026 Durham Black Educators Network’s Afrocentric Program.

We’re excited to welcome new and returning students this fall for a free Saturday program designed to help Black children learn, grow, and thrive.

Students will enjoy:
• Literacy support
• STEM activities
• Black history and cultural learning
• Leadership development
• Arts, games, and hands-on activities
• Positive mentorship

Free lunch is provided, and every student will receive a program T-shirt.

Location: Viola Desmond Public School, Ajax
Dates: Saturdays, September 12 – December 12
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Spaces are limited and registration may close once capacity is reached. We kindly ask families to register only if they know their child will be attending, as registration helps us determine staffing, program materials, and the number of students we are able to welcome.

This program is proudly funded through the Foundation for Black Communities’ Big Ideas Grant and Durham Region’s Thriving Communities Grant. Thank you to and regionofdurham for investing in Black children, families, and our community.

Link in bio to register.

DurhamRegion Community Leadership STEM Education

08/01/2026

Honouring our Ancestors, honouring our History, honouring their Legacy. We understand the assignment, as we continue the work. Happy Independence Day

06/23/2026

If you missed this year’s Games Night, you missed out on great food, lots of laughter, and some good old-fashioned competitive fun!
Every year, we come together to connect, build community, and create moments of joy. From friendly competition to meaningful conversations, the night was filled with smiles and positive energy.
Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make the evening so memorable. We can’t wait to do it again!
You won’t want to miss it next year, so be sure to stay tuned to our page for upcoming events and all things community engagement.
🖤 Together, we build community.
✨ Together, we celebrate Black joy.

06/21/2026

The DBEN Elementary Conference was a blast! From engaging activities and meaningful parent workshops to great food and even greater smiles, it was a day filled with joy, learning, and community. 🖤✨
Thank you to all the students, families, presenters, volunteers, and educators who made the day so special. We can’t wait to see you again next year!

06/02/2026

🎉 End of Year Social 🎉

You might just need some good old-fashioned LIME time! 🍋✨ So come out and join us for an evening of connection, laughs, and fun as we close out the year together!
📍 Sinclair Secondary School Library
380 Taunton Rd, Whitby
📅 Thursday, June 11
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
🥤 Refreshments will also be available!

DBEN Members - free
DBEN Supporters and guests $5.00 (pay onsite)
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone! Please share and bring a friend — the more, the merrier! 🎊

06/01/2026

GEAR UP FOR MAC IS BACK!

Incoming Black first-year students, ready to start your McMaster journey with confidence and community?

The Gear Up For Mac: Week In Residence Program (GUFM) is back for year three of a free week-long residential experience designed to help you begin your McMaster journey with confidence, connection, and community.

Spend the week living on campus, meeting other incoming students, exploring resources, building friendships, and learning skills that will support your transition successfully into university life.

What’s included:
• Free residence accommodations at PGCLL
• Meals provided throughout the week
• Academic preparation workshops & mock lectures
• Financial literacy & OSAP guidance
• Career readiness & resume workshops
• Hamilton community experiences featuring Black-owned businesses
• Campus tours & resource exploration
• Social activities & cultural programming
• Mentorship connections with upper-year students and alumni
• Family & Friends Celebration on the final day
This experience is about more than getting ready for classes. It’s about starting university surrounded by support, mentorship, and a community that wants to see you succeed.

Location: McMaster University
Date: Sunday, July 19 – Friday, July 24, 2026
Application Deadline: Friday, June 19, 2026

Apply Now: bit.ly/GUFM2026

Applications are live now! Don’t miss this opportunity to start your McMaster experience surrounded by support, celebration, and a community that believes in your success. For full programming details check out our website.

05/31/2026

An evening celebrating excellence, perseverance, leadership, and the limitless potential of our youth. 🌟
We are grateful to our sponsors, community partners, families, and supporters who continue to invest in the next generation. Together, we are cultivating possibilities, opening doors, and empowering tomorrow’s leaders. 💙

05/27/2026

Congratulations to all of the recipients of the Cultivating Possibility Awards! 🎉
It is always inspiring to see our community come together to pour into the next generation. We know these incredible young people have bright futures and great things ahead of them, and we are excited to watch them continue to grow, lead, and thrive. ✨

05/26/2026

Thank you, , for sponsoring the Garrett Metcalfe Trades & Services Award. Supporting young people as they pursue their dreams and career pathways creates lasting impact.
We are grateful for your commitment to pouring into the next generation and helping students see what’s possible for their future. 🌟