Black Boys Code is helping Black youth build the skills, confidence and experience they need to thrive in technology and the innovation economy. Through our partnership, Shad awards five full scholarships to Black Boys Code participants each year.
We caught up with two of our Black Boys Code Shad Scholarship recipients to hear more about their Shad experiences.
Tell us more about yourself. Where are you from, what are you passionate about, or what were you involved in before coming to Shad?
My name is Nadi Tinseaw, and I’m from Eritrea in East Africa. I’m passionate about basketball, science, and learning about different careers. I’m especially interested in dental hygiene because I like science and helping people. I also enjoy being active, working with others, and meeting new people. I wanted to come to Shad to challenge myself, learn new things, and make new friends.
What was something you tried at Shad that you never imagined yourself doing before? Whether it was an activity, project, presentation, or experience, what made it memorable?
Something I never imagined myself doing before Shad was presenting and working on projects with people I had just met. I had to communicate my ideas, listen to other people, and work together as a team. It was memorable because I became more comfortable speaking up and sharing my ideas, even when I wasn’t completely confident at first.
What’s one thing you’d tell a future Shad participant before they arrive? What advice would you give to help them make the most of their Shad experience?
My biggest advice would be to talk to as many people as you can and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Put your phone away sometimes, enjoy the activities, and actually get to know the people around you. Some of the best parts of my Shad experience came from random conversations and spending time with people I had just met. You only get one Shad experience, so make the most of every moment and make friends you’ll remember.
Tell us more about yourself. Where are you from, what are you passionate about, or what were you involved in before coming to Shad?
My name is Jeshurun Addo and im born in Canada and my background is from Ghana. I am very passionate about art, track and being creative. I was involved with many things before going to Shad such as being part of a group called LBD leadership by design, Brampton racers track and field club and many more.
Looking back on your Shad experience, what’s one person or one moment you’ll never forget, and why?
One moment I’ll never forget was embracing my fear of public speaking. I never thought I would have confidence to speak to a lot of people, so I’m very grateful I broke that fear. On the last day of Shad, we had a dance off and I was singing through the mic.