Canada Learning Code merges with Ampere to expand digital literacy for all

Two of Canada’s leading non-profits, Canada Learning Code and Ampere (formerly the Pinnguaq Association), are joining forces to expand opportunities for people of all ages to thrive in today’s digital world. Through this merger, the two organizations bring together their shared strengths in democratizing access to technology, delivering hands-on learning, and co-designing with communities to ensure that digital literacy is accessible for everyone.

Ampere, a non-profit that works alongside rural, remote, and Indigenous communities, is known for activating opportunities that strengthen and cultivate valuable STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) skills. While Canada Learning Code, Canada’s leading national charity championing digital literacy education, delivers tech training and career development programs for people who are underrepresented in technology — with a strong emphasis on gender equity, newcomers, and Indigenous and racialized communities. Together the organizations will be a driving force in championing STEAM learning, access to technology, and innovative pathways to careers.

From a partnership built on years of collaboration, Ampere and Canada Learning Code have a long standing history as allies since their early days.

• 2018 – Ampere, as the Pinnguaq Association, opened its first Makerspace in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Canada Learning Code staff ran programming and helped train local Makerspace staff for the first few weeks

• 2019- Ampere, as the Pinnguaq Association, hosted “Grow With Google” in partnership with Google and Canada Learning Code in Iqaluit.

• 2021 – Ampere launched the “Danielle Moore Scholarship” in memory of former colleague of both CLC and Pinnguaq, Danielle Moore. This is a scholarship targeted at Nunavummiut entering STEAM or teaching fields in post secondary.  Over $15,000 has been awarded since its launch.

• 2023 – Ampere adopts the K-12 Computer Science Curriculum Framework from Canada Learning Code. The K-12 Framework provides guiding principles and taxonomy for the development of Computer Science Curriculum across Canada

“Ampere and Canada Learning Code have been intertwined from the very beginning. We each were incorporated just one month apart, growing side by side, and supporting each other as friends and allies along the way.” said Ryan Oliver, CEO of Ampere in a press release. This merger isn’t just a partnership, it’s a reunion and a natural fit that brings us back together to achieve even more”.

As part of the merger, Melissa Sariffodeen has stepped down as CEO of Canada Learning Code and Ryan Oliver has been appointed the new CEO. CLC programs and partnerships will continue without interruption, ensuring a seamless transition and ongoing support for learners and communities.

“We are thrilled to have Ampere continue the work of Canada Learning Code”, says Melissa Sariffodeen, former CEO of Canada Learning Code. “Their proven expertise and shared commitment to bringing access and empowerment of technology to equity deserving groups make them the ideal partner to grow our impact and prepare more learners for the future.”

Learn more at Amp.ca/CanadaLearningcode.  To follow along the journey of Ampere and Canada Learning Code, stay connected with Ampere on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin @AmpereCanada or subscribe to the Ampere newsletter.