Take Charge was our refreshed 6-week electronics and coding program. Using Arduino kits, we helped participants explore coding logic, basic circuitry, and how technology connects to real life. This was a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and build confidence.

Who Joined:

• Average age: 17.5 (mostly high school students, some college/university)
• 20 students
• Neighbourhoods: Regent Park, Moss Park, St. James Town, and other areas

Background & Experience:

• 12 had no prior coding/electronics courses; 8 had some experience (ICS3U/ICS4U, soldering, Variable Academy programs)
• Electronics knowledge ranged from beginner to advanced (most rated themselves between 0–5/10)
• Coding languages: Python (6), JavaScript (2), C# (1), None (12)

What They Wanted:

• Learn if coding could be a career path
• Gain general coding knowledge and experience
• Build practical electronics and Arduino skills
• Explore new opportunities and expand future options

Representation:

• East African, Somali, South Asian, Black/African, Southeast Asian, Multiethnic, and North African communities