Since 2019, OECM has proudly partnered with Dell Technologies to support Girls Who Game (GWG), a transformative extracurricular program that empowers female students in Grades 4 to 8 to explore and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through gaming. Focusing on equitable access to STEM education and building future-ready skills, GWG aligns strongly with OECM’s ESGI priorities, particularly in supporting inclusive learning, social equity, and community impact.
As part of its ongoing commitment, OECM hosts a dedicated Microsoft Teams collaborative virtual space accessible to all the participating GWG student clubs across North America. This space allows all GWG clubs, including those from participating Ontario District School Boards (DSBs), to communicate and collaborate efficiently as they navigate the program.
“At OECM, we believe in investing in tomorrow’s leaders,” says Jim Hadjiyianni, OECM’s President and CEO. “Girls Who Game represents a powerful opportunity to support young girls in developing the skills, confidence, and ambition to thrive in STEM careers. Our involvement is a natural extension of our values and commitment to equity, innovation, and leadership.”
In May, the GWG Spring 2025 Cohort concluded with a dynamic celebration event drawing over 160 students from ten schools across four Ontario DSBs: Wikwemikong Board of Education, Toronto District School Board, Toronto Catholic District School Board, and Peel District School Board. The event was a vibrant display of learning and growth, as students shared their experiences through presentations, peer reflections, and spirited cheers.
This May also saw two GWG teams compete in the Minecraft Provincial Championship, hosted by the Ontario School Esports Association. Demonstrating teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity under pressure, one GWG team secured an impressive second-place finish—underscoring the program’s success in cultivating competitive acumen and global competencies through game-based learning.
The social impact of GWG is clear. Data shows that fewer than a quarter of computing jobs are held by women, with even lower representation among women of colour. Further, less than fifty percent of high school girls know a woman in a STEM career. Programs like GWG are essential in closing this gap by offering a girl-centric learning ecosystem, authentic STEM applications, and valuable mentorship.
“These principles echo OECM’s vision of fostering more inclusive and resilient communities through collaboration and shared value. We’re honoured and proud to support initiatives such as Girls Who Game that build a stronger and increasingly equitable education system,” adds Jim Hadjiyianni.
In addition to ongoing platform hosting support, OECM is excited to expand its role through participation in GWG mentorship initiatives this year. Senior leaders will provide one-on-one and group mentoring to GWG participants, offering insights into career pathways and leadership in STEM and procurement. OECM looks forward to also joining participants at upcoming GWG challenges and Celebration and Inspiration events, and continuing to champion shared innovation, progress, and learning.
OECM remains committed to fostering opportunities that inspire and uplift the next generation of innovators and leaders. In addition to GWG, the organization proudly supports the Data Dunkers Program and the dedicated Professional Learning Series for Ontario Educators in collaboration with Dell Technologies.
OECM customers interested in learning more about the Girls Who Game program or seeking details on how to get involved are invited to explore the Girls Who Game website and contact Dell Technologies’ Canadian Senior Education Strategist, Katina Papulkas, at Katina.Papulkas@dell.com for additional details. For more information about OECM’s End-User Computing Devices and Services agreement with Diamond Supplier Partner, Dell Technologies, or to learn more about OECM’s involvement in the Girls Who Game initiative and our commitment to supporting the program, please don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated Customer Support team at OECM Customer Support or 1-844-OECM-900 (1-844-632-6900).
