EST. 2005
The DBEN Cultivating Possibilities Awards were orginally named the DBEN Activating Student Success Awards). The awards program which was created in 2012 was influenced by our work with renowned educator, Principal Baruti Kafele, who inspired us to mobilize the academic and community leadership of our students.
The inspiration has become an annual event held to celebrate, encourage, and empower students in Grades 7 to 12 from the Black Diaspora as they strive for their dreams.
As our outreach has grown, so has the impact! In 2022, we will celebrate our 10th anniversary of the awards. We have renamed the program to the DBEN Cultivating Possibilities Awards, but the mission and focus are the same. We continue to work with the community to further support the forward and upward trajectory of Black youth while highlighting the community allies and elders that help make this all possible.
CULTIVATING POSSIBILITIES AWARDS
APPLICATIONS
DBEN encourages Black students to “realize the gifts that their ancestors gave” and pursue their dreams. The village rises with you. Apply.
All awards are open only to current and/or graduating DDSB students who self-identify as members of the Black Diaspora.
To view, All Awards Based on Category click here
DBEN Community Leadership Elementary Awards
These four scholarships are awarded to elementary students (Gr. 7-8) who have demonstrated leadership in their school community.
Ifarada Institute of Excellence Award
These two $500 scholarships will be awarded to one female student and one male student who have demonstrated leadership, resilience, and an ability to overcome adversity in their personal circumstances.
Syfox Stepping Up Award
This $500 award will be awarded to two male students who are pursuing post-secondary studies.
Up North Naturals Entrepreneurial Spirit Award
This $250 scholarship award will be granted to a graduating student who has demonstrated an enterprising and innovative mindset.
DBEN Community Leadership Secondary Awards
These four are scholarships awarded to secondary students who have demonstrated leadership in their school community.
The Power in Me award
This $1000 award will be granted to a graduating student who has demonstrated strong character and leadership and who may be the first in the family to pursue post secondary education.
Kiburi Pride Award
This $1000 scholarship award will be presented to a student who self-identifies as Black and 2SLGBTQ or who is active in an ally capacity fighting against homophobia and transphobia in their school or community.
National Basketball Youth Mentorship Program Award
This $500 scholarship award will be presented to a Grade 12 graduating student who has demonstrated a commitment to supporting community involvement through initiatives and team-building activities.
Euleen Thompson Award
This $250 award will be granted to a student pursuing post-secondary studies in the performing arts, theatre, music, dance, vocal studies, creative writing, film studies or film production.
Queen Rising Award
This $1000 award is granted to a female student who has demonstrated involvement in community work and/or social justice initiatives.
Mark Joel Trailblazer Award
In honour of Mark Joel, this $500 scholarship award will be presented to a student who is pursuing studies in the field of Education.
Evelyn and Elisha Steele Scholarship Award
This $1000 scholarship award will be presented to a Grade 12 graduating student who is pursuing post-secondary education in the field of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
DBEN EDUCATOR's AWARD
The DBEN Educator Award is presented annually to a Durham District School Board (DDSB) staff member who exemplifies the DBEN vision of optimizing the educational experiences of African and Caribbean students in the DDSB, and who has demonstrated perseverance, excellence, and leadership.
View the 2021 DBEN Educator's Award Recipient here