BIG on STEM: Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Futures.
For so many young people, careers in science, technology, engineering, and math feel out of reach.
Not because they lack the potential. Because they’ve never seen anyone like them in those jobs. Because no one’s ever told them they could do it. Because it’s hard to imagine your future when you don’t know what your options are.
BIG on STEM changes that.
Created by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada with support from Cenovus Energy, this program meets youth where they are—with mentorship, encouragement, and real experiences that expand what they believe is possible.
A Partnership for the Future
Addressing the critical shortage of youth in STEM, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and Cenovus Energy are sparking excitement and curiosity among young minds. Dynamic partnerships like these are critical in creating lasting social impact in the lives of the youth Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada supports. BIG on STEM is set to connect over 200 Big Brothers Big Sisters youth with STEM professionals annually, unveiling a world of possibilities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Aligning with Cenovus Energy’s commitment to develop future-ready youth, this initiative aims to build awareness of STEM careers and open new pathways for success.
Transforming Communities, Inspiring Futures
BIG on STEM is reshaping futures by removing educational barriers and sparking a passion for STEM among equity-deserving youth. Our partnership is particularly powerful this year as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada is expanding community efforts and magnifying engagement with six of Cenovus Energy’s Canadian office locations in Wood Buffalo, Grande Prairie, Westman, Lloydminster, Calgary, and St. John’s. In these locations – and across Canada – we’ll work to empower the next generation with the skills and confidence to succeed in tomorrow’s world.
In 2024, 206 youth from 8 provinces took part in BIG on STEM. After just one experience, 94% said they felt more inspired to pursue STEM careers.
How BIG on STEM Inspires Youth Across Canada
BIG on STEM helps youth explore futures they didn’t know were available to them. Through experiences that are local, hands-on, and deeply personal, the program builds confidence and sparks curiosity.
Here’s how it works:
- Mentorship that makes STEM real
Youth connect with caring adults who help them set goals, ask questions, and believe in their potential. - Hands-on STEM activities
From robotics to chemistry experiments, youth get to explore how STEM shows up in the world around them. - Career exploration events
Youth hear directly from professionals working in STEM—opening their eyes to new careers and possibilities. - Site visits and real-world exposure
Walking into labs, factories, and tech spaces shows youth that these jobs aren’t just for “other people”—they’re for them too. - Career talks, panels, and fairs
Youth participate in interactive sessions where they can ask questions, hear real stories, and meet a wide range of STEM professionals in one place.
Rooted in Local Communities. Backed by Real Relationships.
This program lives where young people do. From St. John’s to Fort McMurray, Lloydminster to Grande Prairie.
Every experience is made possible through a network of BBBS agencies, mentors, and community champions, working together to give youth the tools, encouragement, and exposure they need to thrive.
Support the Next Generation of Problem-Solvers
STEM isn’t just about labs and equations. It’s about possibility.
With your help, programs like BIG on STEM can keep reaching youth in communities across Canada—sparking dreams, building confidence, and opening doors.
Your donation fuels mentorship, connection, and futures filled with potential.
