Ottawa, September 24, 2025 – Thirty-six young Canadian scientists and innovators will travel to Abu Dhabi this weekend to share their love of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), connecting with like-minded peers from around the world at the MILSET Expo-Sciences International (ESI) 2025, from September 29 to October 1. Selected by Youth Science Canada, these passionate students from six provinces will join 1,000 others from 45 countries in the United Arab Emirates to showcase their innovative projects and participate in one of the largest international STEM events.

The Canadian delegation includes students from Ontario (16), British Columbia (7), Alberta (4), Nova Scotia (4), Quebec (4), and Prince Edward Island (1), accompanied by seven adult chaperones. Each student brings a unique STEM project and story, ready to share their discoveries and learn from their international counterparts.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our students to connect with their peers from around the globe who share their curiosity and passion for discovery,” says Reni Barlow, executive director at Youth Science Canada. “Participating in MILSET ESI provides our students with a life-changing experience that extends far beyond their projects.”

ESI creates a unique environment where young scientists from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared passion for STEM. During the week-long event in Abu Dhabi, Canadian students will present their projects, participate in hands-on workshops, explore the local culture, and build connections with international peers who share their enthusiasm for STEM.

Canadian students have earned their spots through excellence at regional STEM fairs and the annual Canada-Wide Science Fair, where they have demonstrated not only scientific skills but also the enthusiasm and communication abilities that make for meaningful international exchange. Their projects span diverse fields, reflecting the breadth of scientific curiosity among Canadian youth.

“What makes these international experiences so special is watching our students light up when they meet peers from other countries who are just as excited about science as they are,” says Barlow. “Over the course of a week, the students are surrounded by 1,000 other young scientists from around the globe. Our young scientists are not just ambassadors for Canadian innovation; they gain a deeper appreciation for how STEM connects young people across cultures and continents.”

Youth Science Canada has been a member of MILSET (International Movement for Leisure Activities in Science and Technology) since 2007, participating in this global network that aims to develop scientific culture among young people through high-quality programming, including science fairs, science camps, and international exchanges.

For more information about Youth Science Canada’s international programs, visit youthscience.ca/science-fairs/team-canada.

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About Youth Science Canada

Youth Science Canada fuels the curiosity of Canadian youth through STEM projects. A registered charity incorporated in 1966, YSC delivers on its mission through national programs, including mySTEMspace, the National STEM Fair Network, Canada-Wide Science Fair, STEM Expo, Team Canada representation at international fairs and Smarter Science professional development for teachers. Through these programs, YSC directly supports the more than 500,000 students who do STEM projects in any given year. For more information, visit youthscience.ca.

About MILSET Expo-Sciences International

ESI is a prestigious global youth science event organized by MILSET. This non-governmental, non-profit, and politically independent youth organization aims to develop a scientific culture among young people by organizing science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) programs. For more information about ESI 2025, visit esi2025.ae.

For more information:

Dalia Esposito
Torchia Communications
[email protected]
Cell: 514-984-4122