Second-year Electrical Engineering Technology student Claude Nobela recently participated as a panelist at the Future Black Female third Annual Black Girl Youth Conference, held on February 13 at White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa.
With the theme “Beyond the Classroom: Your Path, Your Power,” the conference aimed to address challenges Black youth face in Canada, particularly in education and employment. By fostering skills development, career readiness, and leadership opportunities, the event sought to empower young Black girls in the Niagara Region.
For Nobela, the opportunity to participate as a panelist came through her Co-op advisor, who shared that the conference was seeking a Black female student in Electrical Engineering Technology. She eagerly accepted the chance to share her experiences and inspire the next generation.
Electrical Engineering Technology student Claude Nobela (third from left) participated as a panelist in Future Black Female’s third annual Black Girl Youth Conference on February 14.
“I was honored to be considered and excited about the chance to share my journey with other young Black girls who might be considering careers in fields like engineering,” said Nobela.
Representation is deeply important to Nobela, who hopes to show young Black girls that they belong in any space they choose to occupy, including traditionally male-dominated fields like engineering.
“Growing up, I didn’t see many people who looked like me in engineering or technology roles, so being able to stand on that stage as a panelist was deeply meaningful.”
Throughout the panel, Nobela engaged in discussions on resilience, mentorship, and self-belief, drawing from her own experiences navigating the challenges of pursuing a career in a male-dominated field like engineering. She emphasized the importance of seeking supportive communities and surrounding oneself with mentors who can help guide the way.
“These topics are important because they highlight the tools needed not just to survive but to thrive in spaces where we might feel underrepresented or underestimated.”
Most of all, Nobela was excited to connect with young Black girls who may be unsure of their potential or hesitant to pursue non-traditional career paths.
“If even one girl walked away feeling more confident in her abilities because of my story, then I consider that a success.”
Nobela also shared insights into her experience studying Electrical Engineering at Niagara College, highlighting how the program’s hands-on projects and co-op placements have equipped her with practical skills while fostering innovation. She credits NC’s state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships for ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.
“I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving and technology, and Niagara College felt like the perfect place to nurture that passion.”
She also praised the College’s efforts in fostering diversity and inclusion, which have provided her with valuable mentorship opportunities and networking events connecting students with women leaders in engineering.
“NC has provided me with a lot of opportunities to find mentors and participate in networking events that connect students with women leaders in engineering,” she said. “Initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion have made me feel seen and valued as a woman in engineering. These efforts have inspired me to not only succeed but also pave the way for other young women who aspire to enter this field.”
NC’s diverse community and the encouragement from faculty and peers have pushed her to step outside her comfort zone and become a leader.
“I’ve learned not only how to excel in my studies but also how to be a leader and advocate for myself and others.”
About Future Black Female:
Future Black Female (FBF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Black girls and women between the ages of 16 and 22. Through strong networks, skills development, and advocacy, FBF helps young Black women take charge of their education, careers, and civic engagement. Since 2019, the organization has successfully led initiatives in collaboration with community partners and other organizations to foster growth and advancement.
