Applications open September 15!

Applications open September 15!

Newsletter

Summer Newsletter

Expanding Opportunities for More Youth

This summer, over 1,700 students are heading to Shad at 25 campuses across Canada for a month-long journey of innovation, exploration, and growth. The countdown is on!

We caught up with Alicia, a proud Shad parent to hear what the program meant to her son. Like many parents across the country, Alicia saw firsthand how Shad opened her child’s eyes to new possibilities and strengthened his confidence in pursuing post-secondary education.

Shad Expands to 30 Campuses Nationwide

Shad is proud to partner with post secondary institutions across the country to inspire and challenge the next generation of changemakers. Four new campuses have joined the Shad family: Red Deer Polytechnic, St. Francis Xavier University, University of Alberta, and University of Northern British Columbia will run programs in 2026.

These new partners will help us expand our reach and impact, offering even more students the chance to explore STEAM and entrepreneurship in vibrant, innovative campus communities.

Shad Canada’s Futures Day inspires 500+ students in Kitchener-Waterloo

In partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo, and Conestoga College, Shad launched a one-day event for 500 local students to explore career pathways. The day included a keynote from inventor and technology entrepreneur Ananya Chadha and 47 hands-on workshops including AI & engineering, a 7-m inflatable dome planetarium and a sheep’s brain dissection.

Shad Alumni Spotlight

Congratulations to Shad alum Charlotte Bolduc, Joti Gokaraju, Rocky Sloan, and Shravya Verma on being selected as 2025 Loran Scholars. The Loran Scholars receive a four-year leadership-enrichment program, financial support for their undergraduate studies and opportunities for more learning, all of which is valued at $100,000.

The Shad community now includes 119 Loran Scholars (!!) that are committed to leadership, service, and lasting impact.

Shad Alum Daniel Urquhart shares his journey of authenticity and leading with pride in tech.

Shad Alum Olivia Cao shares how social good motivates her work in AI.

Shad Alum Luna Yin reflects on how her experience at Shad helped shape her path to Harvard.

Shad Alum Michel Bourgeois shares how he’s using his skills as a Software Engineer to harness AI to improve Canadian healthcare.

Shad Alumni Speaker Series

Alumni Viewpoints is a fresh new speaker series where inspiring Shad alumni from diverse industries share bold ideas, insights, and real-world stories.

Register for the next event: June 17 @ 4-5pm ET

Digital Storytelling: Combining technical expertise and an entrepreneurial spirit, to address complex social issues in Canada

Shaping Futures: 45 Years of Shad Impact

In case you missed it…Shad released its 45 Years of Impact Report!

The report highlights the transformative impact Shad has had on youth across Canada, showcasing how we empower students with real-world skills, confidence, and a supportive network to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

Support the next chapter of Shad

The next 45 years of impact needs YOU! Your gift today will fuel growth, access, inclusion and inspiration. Write yourself into Shad’s next chapter by donating here.

News Roundup:

  • BNN Bloomberg: Shad Canada CEO Tim Jackson highlights Shad’s impact on youth through innovation, STEAM, and entrepreneurship. Watch interview
  • Red Deer Polytechnic News: RDP becomes the first polytechnic to host Shad, unlocking STEAM pathways for youth to lead, innovate, and connect.
  • Shad Alum Adrian McCalla shares the importance of Black Leadership and how it shapes his STEAM goals.
  • Shad Parent Meghan Sharir shares how her donation is providing opportunity to deserving students.
  • The Haldimand Press: Townsend teen Mya Esselment chosen to join national STEM program this summer.
  • Waterloo News: Shad Canada CEO, Tim Jackson awarded an honorary doctorate for bold leadership in venture capital, education, and community growth.

Note: Applications for 2026 open September 15.