OARA Youth Innovation Lab (Formerly “Okanagan AI and Robotics Academy, Vernon, BC”)
3125, 31 Ave, Vernon, BC – V1T 2G9
oarayouthinnovationlab@gmail.com
Milestones & Timeline
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October, 2023
Launched Community Initiative in Vernon’s East Hill
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March, 2024
Registered as Sole Proprietorship and started operating from Heritage Hall, Okanagan Science Centre
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Jan, 2025
Operational at New Makerspace in Downtown, Vernon (3125, 31 Ave)
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September, 2025 (Fully Operational)
Became Federally Registered Not-for-Profit (OARA Youth Innovation Lab)
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September, 2025 (Soft Launch)
Expansion into Ontario alongside British Columbia
Empowering Future Innovators
OARA Youth Innovation Lab (formerly Okanagan AI and Robotics Academy) is now a federally registered not-for-profit (Reg. No. 1699362-1).
Over the past two and a half years, we’ve built a strong foundation rooted in community support, real-world learning, and youth-driven innovation. From RC jets and drone projects to robotics competitions, our students inspire us every day.
Learn more on our About Us page →
New Board of Directors
- Renjith Madhavan – British Columbia
- Todd Embley – British Columbia
- Matthew Schafer – British Columbia
- Neeraj Kumar – Ontario
- Thomas Puthuckayil – British Columbia
Major Achievements
Two Dedicated Robotics Teams
Vernon Explorers (ages 6–9)
Introducing the youngest learners to engineering concepts through playful, hands-on robotics challenges.
Mountain Shredders (ages 9–16)
Guiding older students through more advanced design, programming, and teamwork.
In the News
We’re very grateful for the news coverage we’ve received recognizing our contributions to the community and STEM initiatives in Vernon.
Awards at Prestigious Competitions
FLL 2023–2024 Season
- Mountain Shredders won the Core Values Award at the UBC Regional Qualifier
- First Lego League Challenge journey
- Coverage: LEGO Robotics competition
FLL 2024–2025 Season
- Vernon Explorers made their first-ever appearance, winning awards at the UBC Regional Qualifier
- Mountain Shredders delivered a fantastic performance at regionals and advanced to Provincials in Vancouver
- Mountain Shredders put on a strong showing at the Provincials
Academic & Community Service
SD22 District Project Scholarship Panel
Served as judges in both 2024 and 2025.
STEM Sessions at Okanagan Regional Library
Hosted hands-on STEM workshops to spark curiosity and learning.
Chess Tuesdays
Weekly sessions at OARA Makerspace to foster logical thinking and strategy skills.
Our Offerings
Vacation Camps
Hands-on day camps during school breaks.
After School Programs
Weekly STEM activities and robotics clubs.
Home School Support
Customized STEM modules for home-schooled learners.
Mentorship & Coaching
One-on-one guidance for robotics competitions.
Youth Entrepreneurship Events
Workshops and pitch competitions.
Chess Tuesdays
Weekly library sessions to build strategic thinking.
Recent Events & Programs
Summer Camp 2025
8-week Summer Tech Camp in Vernon, BC. Explore robotics, coding, game design, AI, animation, and more.
Looking Ahead
Standing at the threshold of our next chapter, we’re energized by the many “firsts” we’ve already achieved—and eager to set new standards for compliance, safety, and educational excellence. At the heart of everything we do are our students and youth, supported by passionate coaches, dedicated parents, and countless community champions.
As OARA Youth Innovation Lab, we reaffirm our mission “to advance science and innovation through hands-on STEM projects.” Thank you for believing in our vision and joining us on this remarkable journey. We’ve only just begun—here’s to many more milestones ahead!