Roads to Success STEAM Fair 2025

On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, over 250 students from Roads to Success (RTS) After School Programs gathered at East Harlem Scholars Academy High School for one of the most anticipated events of the year; Annual RTS STEAM Fair. As a flagship event of RTS’s STEAM Week, the Fair serves as a powerful platform for young learners to engage in the vibrant worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through hands-on workshops and interactive experiences.

Exclusively designed for students enrolled in RTS programs, this year’s STEAM Fair created a space for discovery, collaboration, and inspiration. With a focus on youth from underrepresented communities, the event encouraged participants to explore real-world applications of STEAM and envision themselves as future innovators,engineers, artists, scientists, and changemakers.

This event was made possible with support from the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), whose partnership plays a vital role in expanding access to high-quality enrichment opportunities for youth across the city.

A Borough-Wide Representation of Talent

Participants came from awide range of RTS programs spanning across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx,creating a truly citywide celebration of youth creativity and learning.

From Manhattan:

• MS 57(Harlem)
• RSA
• MS 206
• Level Up
• Amber Inwood Elementary School
• Amber Inwood Middle School

From Brooklyn:

• Hyde
• MS 839

From the Bronx:

• MS 644
• RTS Cornerstone Program at Boston Secor

The diverse representation highlighted the expansive reach of RTS programming and underscored our commitment to ensuring access to STEAM opportunities across all communities.

The STEAM Fair was structured to give each student a deep, immersive experience. The event began with an energetic kick-Off rally before students rotated through three 45-minute workshops, interspersed with a lunch break and short transitions.

Workshops were led by passionate industry professionals, artists, and educators, each bringing a unique approach to experiential learning. Sessions included:

1. Engineering & Design
2. Forensic Science
3. The Science of Food
4. DJ & Music Technology
5. Rap & Percussion
6. DIY Lava Lamps
7. Bridges & Structures
8. Intro to Robotics

From building simple circuits to understanding the chemistry of food, and from rhythm-based self-expression to the mechanics of bridge engineering, the workshops challenged students to think critically and creatively.

Youth-led project showcases were a highlight of the day, as students presented innovative solutions and demonstrated their problem-solving abilities. Additionally, performance-based workshops brought a different dimension of expression,blending STEAM with culture, identity, and storytelling.

Throughout the event, students also had the opportunity to connect with mentors, gain exposure to various career pathways, and begin imagining their own futures in the STEAM fields.

Speaking about the importance of the STEAM Fair, RTS CEO Sheila Duke shared:

“We believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. The RTS STEAM Fair is one way we bridge that gap, by giving our youth hands-on access to tools, knowledge, and professionals that expand their view of what’s possible. Events like these plant seeds of confidence and curiosity that can shape their future paths.”

The RTS STEAM Fair is more than just a day of fun activities; it is a catalyst. It reflects our broader mission to ignite passion, foster critical skills, and equip young people with the tools to thrive in an ever-evolving world. As we look ahead, RTS will continue to champion innovation, equity, and excellence in all areas of youth development.

Stay connected with us as we continue to open doors and build pathways, one workshop, one connection, andone student at a time.