ACCN celebrates Black student excellence

Editors Note: We’re closing out a wonderful year by sharing stories that matter. This article is just one piece of our community’s amazing journey!

For 19 years, the African Canadian Christian Coalition Network (ACCN) has remained committed to transforming the lives of Black students through education, mentorship, and leadership development. Guided by its mission, “Nurturing Promise, Harvesting Potential,” the organization has continued to invest in young people through programs such as the Independent School Program, Parent 2 Parent (P2P), and Umoja Robotics.

That commitment was on full display during the 19^th Annual Black Excellence and Scholarship Awards Recognition Ceremony, held on Saturday, July 11^th, 2026, at the Tropicana Community Services Centre in Scarborough. The celebration recognized graduating high school students who participated in ACCN programs while also honouring the achievements of the Umoja Robotics team.

Opening the ceremony, Executive Director Cherryl Lewis reflected on the organization’s journey since its launch in 2007 and the lasting impact its programs have had on students and families. She emphasized that ACCN equips young people not only for academic success, but also for life’s challenges.

Quoting one of the organization’s guiding principles, Lewis reminded students: “Failure is not the opposite of success, but the pathway to it.” She encouraged graduates to remain committed to ACCN’s vision as they pursue careers as future leaders, scientists, doctors, educators, and changemakers.

The ceremony also featured greetings from a representative of MPP Raymond Cho, while Councillor Jamaal Myers offered reflections and words of encouragement to students and their families.

One of the event’s highlights was the continued success of Umoja Robotics, an initiative launched in 2018 to address the achievement gap among Black youth while increasing participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The program made history as the first Black youth robotics team to compete in a FIRST Robotics Competition in Canada. Earlier this year, the team captured the 2026 Provincial Championship before advancing to the FIRST Robotics World Championship, held in Houston, Texas, from April 29^th to May 2^nd.

The program’s results continue to demonstrate its impact:

• 100% of participants graduate from high school.
• 100% are accepted into post-secondary institutions.
• 90% pursue STEM-related studies.

Students were recognized for outstanding achievement in several categories.

Community Awards

• Sahar Austin
• Josiah Thongs

Perseverance Awards

• Iceonie Elijio
• Sekou Clarke

Leadership Award

• Lewi Lambebo

Pathway Scholars Award

• Naomi McDonald

Several Umoja Robotics students also received special recognition:

• Umoja Rookie of the Year – Emnet Kedida
• Umoja Rookie of the Year (Honourary) – Maliet Smith
• Driving Gear Award – Matthew Rundassa
• Innovative Award – William Bjork
• ACCN Distinction Award – Elroee Lambebo

Keynote speaker Rasheed Tucker, a graduate of Upper Canada College, delivered an inspiring address that candidly explored both the successes and setbacks of his leadership journey. He shared how perseverance, creativity, faith, and resilience helped him overcome obstacles while encouraging students to remain focused on their goals.

Tucker left graduates with three guiding principles for their post-secondary journey:

• Trust yourself.
• Stay the course.
• Find your why.

His message resonated throughout the ceremony, reinforcing the importance of believing in one’s potential while remaining committed to long-term success.

As ACCN approaches its 20^th anniversary in 2027, the organization continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading charitable organization dedicated to empowering Black youth through education, mentorship, and opportunity. Through scholarships, leadership development, and innovative programs like Umoja Robotics, ACCN continues to help young people realize their potential while preparing the next generation of community leaders.

For more information about the African Canadian Christian Coalition Network, visit accntoronto.com.