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The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference

An audience member asks a question during the Cypher conference.

The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference brought together more than 400 Black male students in Grades 7 to 10 from the DDSB for an in-person event at Durham College. The conference, aimed at celebrating, learning, and exploring future opportunities, featured engaging discussions with entrepreneurs, community leaders, educators, and Black male role models.

DDSB alumnus and Grammy award-winning record producer Boi-1da shared his experiences and encouraged students to reach for their dreams. The conference also provided opportunities for students to interact with community organizations, participate in workshops on various subjects, and explore college programs. With a focus on empowerment and leadership, the event aimed to inspire positive transitions and eliminate barriers for Black male students.

A staff leader at the Cypher conference leads a group of students in a workshop activity.

Boi-1da shows a group of students his music recording equipment.

Student engaged in conversation with sign language.

Opportunities for Every Student

Making a Difference: Ignite Durham Learning Foundation

Adult sitting on stage stairs talking to an audience via a microphone.

SOAR:Sistahs Overcoming, Achieving, and Rising

We all belong on a rainbow of colours.

Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Conference

Strategic Priorities

Set high expectations and provide support to ensure all students and staff reach their full potential every year.

Create safe, welcoming, inclusive learning spaces to promote well-being for all students and staff.

Identify future leaders, actively develop new leaders and responsively support current leaders.

Promote a sense of belonging and increase equitable outcomes for all by identifying and addressing barriers to success and engagement.

Engage students, parents and community members to improve student outcomes and build public confidence.

Reimagine learning and teaching spaces through digital technologies and innovative resources.

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