Board News

InnovateHER Ignites Female Empowerment in STEAM

5 Sep, 10:35 AM

This summer, the Grand Erie District School Board launched a new camp for young women eager to dive into all things technology.

 

From August 11 to 15, InnovateHER marked a week of empowerment, creativity and mentorship as young women uncovered technological solutions to real-world problems.

 

At camp, attendees developed prototypes using design thinking — a human-centred approach to problem-solving — along with technical platforms like Tinkercad and other AI creativity tools to develop fresh coding techniques. At the end of the week, they presented their creations to families and friends.

 

"InnovateHER is more than a camp. It's a launchpad for future changemakers," said Miriam LaPeare, STEAM Teacher Consultant.

 

"Whether they're new to coding, digital storytelling or 3D design, students learned to trust the process, face challenges head-on and spark new ideas along the way. These skills will help them navigate obstacles throughout the rest of their educational journey and beyond."

 

Students enjoyed meeting new people and bonding over shared interests in a hands-on space.

 

JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education, said, "Through caring leadership, InnovateHER celebrates female empowerment by lifting each other up, sharing and creating a supportive environment where everyone's voice matters."

 

InnovateHER is just one of the many exciting things happening at the Innovation Hub. Since opening its doors in November 2024, the Hub has sparked curiosity in every corner of Grand Erie. Stay tuned for more opportunities and events.

 

Here are a few photos from the event

Children participating in InnovateHer Camp Activity

Students participating in InnovateHer group activity

Emma Dailey displays InnovateHER camp craft

Emma Dailey displaying an InnovateHer creation

Student participating in InnovateHER camp activity

Student participating in InnovateHer design creation

InnovateHer Camp mockup drawings

Student learning about mock-up drawings

Campers using an I-pad to complete stop motion activity

Students using stop motion technology

Completed projects from InnovateHer camp

A few additional creations from the InnovateHer camp