The DMZ launches ‘Sandbox’- a space for entrepreneurial learning
TORONTO, February 1, 2017 – The DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University is pleased to announce the launch of Sandbox, a new space offering a collection of free curated programs that provide creative, digital and entrepreneurial skills for Ryerson students and individuals of all ages in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). The space, created by the DMZ, is based at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Student Learning Centre.
Sandbox by DMZ encourages Ryerson students and various communities in the city to pursue their individual passions, develop employable skills, explore ideas and tackle serious issues affecting society.
“Our economy is changing; we need to continue to equip individuals with the skills needed to succeed in this complex marketplace,” says Abdullah Snobar, executive director of the DMZ. “Sandbox by DMZ provides individuals of all ages with the access to resources and networks they need to build and accelerate their abilities.”
The new centre inspires individuals to hone in on their interests or professional ambitions for free. The space and programming provide an opportunity for individuals to reach their full potential by learning in a creative and collaborative environment.
“As part of Ryerson’s commitment to inspire a culture that values and celebrates entrepreneurial skills and innovation, ‘Sandbox by DMZ’ provides free programs that encompass the economic and social principles of Ryerson’s zone learning network,” says Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of Ryerson Univerisity.
“Sandbox by DMZ empowers individuals, communities and various organizations to contribute to our innovative and diverse city.”
Sandbox by DMZ has partnered with organizations such as Accenture, MaRS Discovery District, NIA Centre for Arts, Red Academy and the Government of Ontario to create a collection of free, interdisciplinary and hands-on skills-based programs in technology, entrepreneurship and the arts.
Anyone will be able to register for any of the appropriate (free) programs offered below by visiting sandboxdmz.ca
INK (INnovate with your Kid): This two-hour workshop brings together 8-12 year old children and their parents to create, build and digitally print various objects based on the theme of each class. The program is meant to teach cognitive and teamwork skills.
Digital Discovery: This program provides workshops in web development, computer coding and UI/UX design. Similar courses in Toronto range from $300 to $1,200, but are free at Sandbox by DMZ.
Basecamp: A summer program to help high school age students turn their ideas into a market- ready business. In summer 2016, the program helped ten high school students finalize a business plan, create the strategy for their startup’s brand and develop their app or product using the services provided by various Zones at Ryerson.
Financial Literacy program: Taught by students from Ryerson’s Ted Rogers School of Management, this program was created to help Syrian refugees in the GTA learn about budgeting, saving, applying for loans and identity theft and safety.
The Knowledge Drop: Bringing together talented individuals in Toronto’s arts community, ‘Knowledge Drop’ provides hands-on classes in music production, photography and videography.
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About Sandbox by DMZ: Sandbox by the DMZ is the community arm to one of Canada’s largest businesses incubators, the DMZ. It is a collaborative space with free curated programs that provide creative, digital or entrepreneurial skills for individuals at Toronto Metropolitan University and in the Greater Toronto Area.
About DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University: The DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University is one of Canada’s largest business incubators for emerging tech startups. It is the top-ranked university incubator in North America and third in the world, and helps startups succeed by connecting them with customers, advisors, influencers and other entrepreneurs. Since launching in 2010 it has incubated over 266 startups, raised $280 million in seed funding, and has fostered the creation of more than 2,562 jobs.
