Why It's Important
Success stories and local role models are powerful tools for inspiring youth in digital technologies. Seeing people from their own community or a similar background succeeding in the tech world makes abstract career paths feel real and achievable. Role models provide mentorship, demonstrate what is possible, and help break down stereotypes about who belongs in technology. This is a crucial component of local economic development; by inspiring a new generation to pursue digital careers, communities can build a local talent pool, foster innovation, and create a sustainable tech ecosystem that drives long-term prosperity. As highlighted by organizations like Actua, Canada’s largest STEM outreach organization, mentorship is key to building youth confidence and engagement.
History
The technology sector has historically struggled with a lack of diversity. The "tech genius" stereotype was often a young, white man from a major urban centre. This created a perception that tech was not a welcoming place for those who didn't fit the mold. In recent years, there has been a concerted effort in Canada to change this narrative. Organizations have emerged to specifically support and amplify the voices of underrepresented groups in tech, including women, newcomers, and Indigenous peoples. The focus has shifted to celebrating a wider range of success stories and creating platforms for a more diverse set of role models to share their journeys, inspiring the next generation.
Examples
Shopify's Dev Degree Program: While a corporate program, it partners with Canadian universities to offer an integrated learning model where students work alongside industry mentors while earning their degree. Its success showcases an alternative pathway to a tech career.
Tania Larsson, Gwich'in Fine Jeweller: An innovative artist who uses modern digital tools like 3D printing and e-commerce to create and market jewelry based on traditional Gwich'in design, serving as a powerful role model for blending culture and technology.
Brenda Bailey, former CEO of DigiBC: Before entering politics, Brenda Bailey led the interactive and digital media industry association for British Columbia, championing local talent and serving as a prominent female role model in the province's tech sector.
Indigenous Friends Association: This youth-led organization is creating a safe and inspiring digital space for Indigenous youth, leveraging technology to build community and providing a platform for peer mentorship and role modelling.
Software and Tools
LinkedIn: An essential professional networking tool. Youth can use it to research the career paths of people in their field of interest, find local professionals, and even reach out for informational interviews.
Ten Thousand Coffees: A Canadian networking and mentorship platform that connects students and young professionals with industry experts for career conversations.
[Podcasts and YouTube Channels: Many Canadian tech leaders and innovators share their stories through digital media. Following channels focused on Canadian tech can be a great source of inspiration and learning.
Local Tech Association Websites (VIATEC): Websites for regional tech associations, like VIATEC in Victoria, are excellent tools for identifying local tech companies and leaders who could serve as role models or mentors.
AI Considerations
Artificial intelligence can help connect youth with potential role models. AI-powered mentorship platforms can analyze a young person's interests and suggest professionals with relevant experience for them to connect with. AI can also be used to create more accessible success stories, for example, by translating an interview with a role model into different languages, including Indigenous languages. The key is to ensure these tools are used to create genuine human connections, not to replace them. The most powerful mentorship is still a real conversation between two people.
FAQ
A role model can be anyone who uses technology effectively in their work: a small business owner with a great e-commerce site, a local artist using digital tools, or a municipal employee using GIS mapping.
Start with your local Chamber of Commerce, regional tech association, or community college. Ask who in the community is known for being innovative with technology.
A polite, concise email or LinkedIn message is a great start. They should introduce themselves, explain why they admire the person's work, and ask for a brief, 15-minute "virtual coffee" to ask a few questions about their career path.
Short video interviews, articles on a community blog, or even a simple series of posts on social media can all be effective. The key is to be consistent and authentic.
They can still be a powerful role model! Virtual mentorship and online "ask me anything" sessions make it possible for them to connect with and inspire youth from anywhere.
Pro Tips
Seek out and celebrate success stories within your community to inspire yourself and others. Attend events or watch interviews where local tech innovators discuss their challenges and accomplishments, and reflect on how their experiences can inform your own path. Sharing these narratives helps build a supportive environment where aspiring technologists see what’s possible.
Checklist
External Resources
Digital Nova Scotia: An industry association that profiles and celebrates tech success stories and leaders from across the province. Similar associations exist in most provinces.
Canada's Tech Network: A network of tech hubs across the country that are deeply connected to local innovators and success stories.
Shad Canada: A STEAM and entrepreneurship program for high school students that has a vast network of successful alumni who can serve as role models.