February 19th, 2026
For students exploring their next steps, the Black Brilliance: Pathways to Post-Secondary Education Fair offered an inspiring space to discover opportunities, ask questions, and build a roadmap for their future.
Now in its second year, the event showcased the power of collaboration, both within the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and with community partners, to support the success of African, Caribbean, and Black-identifying (ACBi) students.
This school year, the City of Kitchener partnered with WRDSB to expand the reach and visibility of the event, which was held at Kitchener City Hall in October. The full-day fair was organized into three engaging sessions, connecting ACBi students in Grades 10 to 12 with valuable information on preparing for post-secondary education.
Building Pathways to Success
Colleges, universities, skilled trades, apprenticeship programs, community organizations, and small business partners were on hand to share insights, deliver presentations, and answer questions about admissions, programs, campus life, financial aid, and career pathways.
Approximately 325 students attended the fair, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from partners, many calling it one of the best post-secondary events they’ve participated in all year.
A Strategic Commitment to Equity
The Black Brilliance Fair aligns with the WRDSB’s Board Improvement and Equity Plan key areas:
- Achievement
- Pathways and transitions
- Sovereignty, human rights and equity
- Mental health, well-being and engagement
Internally, WRDSB teams, including OYAP, Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), Mental Health Services, Guidance Counsellors, and System Navigators worked together to tailor resources and support to meet the unique needs of ACBi students.
The event was attended by Chair Maedith Radlein and Director Scott Miller, whose presence underscored WRDSB’s commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable opportunities for all students.
