Where Corporate Partnership Meets Community Impact: Self-eSTEM at PayPal’s Black History Month Event

On February 12, 2026, Self-eSTEM joined PayPal’s Black History Month Flower Drive, connecting with employees around one question that doesn’t go away: who gets to be in the room where the future of work gets decided?

Hosted by PayPal and the Amplify Employee Resource Group (ERG), the event created space for exactly the kind of conversation Self-eSTEM was built for. Founder and Executive Director Adamaka Ajaelo attended to talk about what Self-eSTEM actually builds, Innovators who leave our Early STEM Immersion, Innovator Sustainment and Future of Work Community-Based programs ready to lead, not just participate.

Adamaka spent the afternoon in conversation with PayPal employees and ERG members curious about what Self-eSTEM is building and why it matters.

Self-eSTEM’s Innovators aren’t waiting to enter the digital economy. They’re learning to build it. Moments like this one, where a corporate partner shows up as a real ally, matter because of what they make possible for the young people in our programs.

Thank you to Lisha Bell, PayPal, and the Amplify ERG for making room for this work and for showing up as real partners.

Watch the Event Recap

See highlights from Self-eSTEM’s participation at PayPal’s Black History Month event:

Join the Movement

At Self-eSTEM, we are committed to empowering youth and young adults to explore, lead, and innovate in STEM. Visit www.selfestem.org to learn how you can support yourself through donations, partnerships, mentorship, or volunteering. Together, we can build a more inclusive future in STEM.

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