How EA SPORTS Encourages Black Representation in STEAM

At EA SPORTS™, we’re committed to supporting the communities where we live, work, and play. This includes developing strong partnerships with organizations that are fostering inclusion, and creating education and career opportunities for the next generation in the science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) and gaming industries.

That’s why we’re excited to spotlight EA SPORTS community partner Ethọ́s Lab, and its approach to increasing the presence of Black and underrepresented youth in STEAM through programming and events – with the goal of creating a more inclusive future for all.

Learn more about our partnership and Ethọ́s Lab’s incredible work below!

ETHỌ́S LAB EMPOWERS YOUTH THROUGH STEAM

Ethọ́s Lab is a Black-led Vancouver-based afterschool innovation academy for youth in grades 5–12 to discover, explore, and grow through STEAM and culture-based experience.

Founded in 2020 by Anthonia Ogundele, her goal was to “create a nurturing and innovative environment where my daughter, her friends, and other Black kids could explore STEAM subjects, develop critical thinking skills, and gain exposure to new opportunities.”

Ethọ́s believes in building a future that includes and reflects everyone, and that young, diverse voices are pivotal to co-creating a brighter and inclusive world that better reflects all humanity.

Ethọ́sians (Ethọ́s Lab students) working on STEAM projects.

CREATING A SENSE OF BELONGING IN STEAM IS KEY

Traditional systems and STEAM culture can cause real barriers, which Anthonia says results in “Black youth, in particular, facing unique challenges in accessing, remaining, [and being represented in] these fields.” That’s why, in addition to providing youth with the technical skills and education to excel in STEAM, it’s important to Ethọ́s to help redefine what a STEAM person looks like, and create a supportive community that helps students thrive and find greater success in STEAM learning.

Ethọ́sians participate in a video game creation activity at EA Vancouver.

Ethọ́s’ main priority is ensuring members feel a true sense of belonging, and that their community “fosters [youth’s] imagination to act on what is seemingly impossible.” Anthonia noted that participation and access to Ethọ́s’ programs have helped students build confidence, improve their social skills, and gain a renewed interest in their education.

A quote from Ethọ́s Lab founder Anthonia Ogundele.

BLACK REPRESENTATION IN STEAM DRIVES MORE INNOVATION

When we include, engage, and encourage diverse perspectives, it results in more equitable spaces, innovative ideas, and creative solutions. That’s why we’re proud to support Ethọ́s Lab’s goal of “broadening students’ horizons and aspirations through exposure to various STEAM careers,” by collaborating on impactful programming, volunteering at Ethọ́s events, and hosting studio visits and tours.

Matt Moreau, Senior Acquisition Specialist, EA Motion Capture gives Ethọ́sians an inside look.

In addition to investing in their programming, Anthonia shared that “partnerships with industry leaders like EA SPORTS significantly benefit Ethọ́s Lab by offering real-world STEAM experiences that help students learn about specific areas of game design.” These experiences include co-creating a game development program that helps underrepresented youth build core development skills, and provide mentorship from EA SPORTS employees for Ethọ́s youth leads interested in a future in gaming. The game development program has supported a number of cohorts since we began our partnership in 2021, with participants expressing overwhelmingly positive feedback and their interest in continuing to learn about game development.

Additionally, through visits to our EA Vancouver location – home to our EA SPORTS FC™, UFC®, and NHL franchises, and one of the largest game development studios in the world – students have had the opportunity to tour our studio, participate in gaming activities, get an inside look at our motion capture (mocap) studio, and connect with employees to further imagine a future career with EA SPORTS. In fact, following a recent visit to EA Vancouver, when Maya, an Ethọ́sian (Ethọ́s Lab program participant) was asked about her favorite part of the tour, she replied “seeing my future office!”

A group photo of the Ethọ́s Lab team and students.

Fostering a culture of inclusion at EA SPORTS helps us create an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and heard; authentically represent our players around the world; and drive change within our communities. Through our partnership with Ethọ́s Lab and other STEAM-focused organizations around the world, we are proud to expand access to STEAM education, champion inclusivity, and inspire the next generation of game makers.

Learn more about Ethọ́s Lab, read EA SPORTS’ commitment to DEI year-round, and get in the game with us as we help foster strong, inclusive communities.