Shad empowers young people like Finn, a Métis student from Alberta, whose Shad experience revealed a world of opportunity and new pathways in STEAM. Stories like his reflect what’s possible when youth are given the space to explore, connect ideas, and imagine what’s next.
The application deadline for Shad is January 5. Encourage the youth in your life to apply and take the next step toward their future.
Nearly 500 high school students from across Nova Scotia came together to experience Shad Canada’s Future’s Day at Dalhousie University. This one day event supports students as they discover new pathways to post-secondary and STEAM careers.
In February, students in Alberta will get to experience Shad Canada & U School’s Futures Day.
We are grateful to our partners who help us reach and inspire young people each year. Their support ensures students across Canada can discover their potential, explore STEAM and entrepreneurship, and begin to see clear pathways to post-secondary education. For many students engaged with these organizations, Shad is a natural next step in helping them build on their interests and confidence as they prepare for what comes next. Together, we are shaping the next generation of innovators, leaders, and changemakers.
*New partner alert* Shad is proud to partner with the myBlueprint Industry Immersion Series, open to Canadian students in Grades 7–12. This self-directed program helps students explore careers through skill-building challenges and incentives. Students in Grades 7–11 who complete all nine activities are eligible for a chance to win a scholarship to attend Shad.
Students in Grades 10–11 applying for Shad2026 must indicate their interest by January 5, 2026. Get started with this link.
Alum Madison Zanette’s Shad experience sparked a bold vision for her future, leading to a $15,000 McMaster University scholarship and a path toward a career in biomedical engineering.
From Shad to the global stage, Dr. Yassen Tcholakov has dedicated his career to advancing public health on an international scale.
Faduma Mohamed shares how Shad opened her eyes to new opportunities and careers
Aspiring Impact Makers (yes, you 😊): with a donation, you widen the circle of who gets to take part. You’ll impact access and offer a learning experience that turns youth potential into capability. Be the impact you want to see by donating today.
As the year draws to a close, I’m reminded of the incredible young people who engage with Shad each summer. Their curiosity, creativity, and determination to tackle real-world challenges are a powerful reminder of why investing in youth matters so deeply. Thank you for being part of a community that helps young people discover their potential and carry it forward into their futures.
With warm holiday wishes from all of us at Shad Canada,
Applications for Shad2026 are open until January 5, 2026!
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