what to know
- Pascal Siakam launches the second cohort of his EdTech Engine with TMU’s DMZ, leading a new wave of education start-ups.
- The program shifts its focus towards AI-powered learning and skill development of youth, thereby preparing students for an increasingly technology-led workforce.
- PS43-supported success stories like Cyber Legends and English Isles demonstrate the growing demand for innovative AI education tools as Siakam expands its global youth initiative.
Former Toronto Raptors star Pascal Siakam stopped by Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) to announce the second installment of the Siakam EdTech Engine in partnership with startup incubator DMZ.
Following the success of the first cohort, the NBA champion is excited to continue this intensive program with TMU’s DMZ, but is looking for start-ups that go beyond standard educational technology.
Siakam acknowledged that “technology is taking over,” and young people will not be able to thrive in the ever-changing workforce without basic exposure to artificial intelligence.
“As we move into the second cohort, and expand into AI and youth upskilling, our goal is simple: to provide young people with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in a changing world. I’m grateful to DMZ and all of our partners for helping bring that vision to life,” the three-time NBA All-Star said at the event.
Siakam’s charitable foundation, PS43, is dedicated to empowering youth through education and opportunity. Continuing the legacy of his late father, Siakam strives to enrich the education of students around the world, starting with the three places he calls home.
“I think, wherever I am, everywhere and every place that feels special to me, which is right now, Indiana, (Toronto) and then, where I’m from, Cameroon, I just want to keep making my impact.
Through PS43’s collaboration with DMZ he has been able to see aspirations become reality.
“We’re going to hear stories about how many kids (the start-ups) helped. And to me, that’s the main goal, because, at the end of the day, it’s about helping and doing something in education that will again help the whole next generation. I’m very excited about that opportunity… We have two cohorts that are coming, so we’re hoping that, you know, it’s going to be even better.”
Siakam praises teachers like Bishop McDonnell Catholic School principal Loren Van Zon for their steadfast dedication to their students and startups like Cyber Legends and English Isles, which were among the first to benefit from the engine.
“They’re creating something great, you know, for our kids, and you know, having the support of the board and our school district, like, that’s very important and for us, we just want to continue to make change in 10 years.”
Although he didn’t share exact details, Siakam revealed on The Brandon Gonz Show that his foundation has more exciting projects in the works, specifically in Indiana and Cameroon.
Fans can watch Siakam and the shorthanded Indiana Pacers take on the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m.
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