The University of Guelph proudly hosted the 2025 Canadian Black Scientists Network (CBSN) Ontario Regional Science Fair on April 5, 2025, at the Summerlee Science Complex Waasamowin. This inspiring event brought together young scientists of African descent from across Ontario to showcase their innovative projects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The fair was part of CBSN’s mission to encourage and support the next generation of Black scientists, with public viewing sessions allowing the community to engage directly with the students’ research.

This year’s competition featured impressive projects across junior, intermediate, and senior grade categories. The Top 3 Overall Winners, who progressed to the final CBSN round, were Demi Salako, Mojoyin Solademi, and Ifekristi Akinloye. Category winners included Ifekristi Akinloye (Senior), Demi Salako (Intermediate), and Grant Ford (Junior). In addition, the Top 3 Intermediate Winners—Demi Salako, Mojoyin Solademi, and Mitch Peart—earned prestigious SHAD Canada Scholarships. These outstanding results highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of all participants.

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Several students also received special recognition and post-secondary opportunities. Honourable Mentions went to Emmanuella Ojo-Benjamin, Nana Boateng, and Tomi Balagun. The University of Dalhousie awarded Engineering Entry Scholarships to Demi Salako and Mojoyin Solademi, while Science Entry Scholarships were granted to Demi Salako and Ifekristi Akinloye. These accolades not only celebrate individual achievement but also demonstrate the growing national recognition of CBSN’s role in fostering excellence in STEM among Black youth in Canada.
 
We sincerely thank our generous sponsors for making the 2025 CBSN Ontario Regional Science Fair at the University of Guelph a resounding success. We are deeply grateful to the University of Guelph, Dalhousie University, York University, SHAD Canada, Creative Encounters with Science, Let’s Talk Science, and Connected Minds for their invaluable support. Their commitment to empowering the next generation of scientists and fostering diversity in STEM has been instrumental in providing students with opportunities to explore, innovate, and excel. This event would not have been possible without their dedication to uplifting young scholars and investing in the future of science.
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