Black By Design: From the Ground Up

Are you interested in architectural design? Are you excited about the possibility of shaping spaces and creating innovative structures?

Black By Design: From the Ground Up is a 10-week intensive program dedicated to aspiring architects. This program is designed to immerse you in the fundamentals of architecture, guiding you through the process of designing and conceptualizing space.

Registration closes Oct. 1.

We invite applications from young people who meet the following criteria:

• Toronto Residents: Preference will be given to applicants who live in Toronto and can commute to the program location.
• Commitment: Must be able to commit to the full duration of the program.
• Interest in Architecture: Applicants should be genuinely interested in exploring and pursuing a career in architecture.
• Collaborative Spirit: Should be prepared to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Program dates:
Thursday October 16th (Mixer), 2025
Thursday October 23rd, 2025
Thursday October 30th, 2025
Thursday November , 2025
Thursday November 6th, 2025
Thursday November 13th, 2025
Thursday November 20th, 2025
Thursday November 27th, 2025
Thursday December 4th, 2025
Thursday December 11th, 2025
Thursday December 18th, 2025

Meet Your Facilitator

Odudu Umoessien

Odudu is an architect operating at the intersection of art, design and architecture consumed by the relationship between people and space. With a core ethos rooted in empathy and a connection to self, to space and spirit, he draws inspiration from nature’s forms to realize physical and digital spaces, objects and experiences. Having worked as an architectural designer since 2020, he has refined his expertise in the design of bespoke homes, public spaces and site specific artistic interventions, infusing each project with careful design and cultural resonance.