Black History Month

Monday, February 3, 2025

BHM Opening Ceremony

The National Black Coalition of Canada is hosting the official launch of Black History Month 2025 in Edmonton and invites all to join. NorQuest College is going to be featured, and our very own Nadira Barre will be speaking at this event. Admission is free and details are as follows:

Local music performances, delicious cuisine, and inspiring guests

Location: Tucker Amphiteatre, Downtown Edmonton (Citadel Theatre)
Time: 1:00 – 3:30 pm

Tuesday, February 4, 2025  

Black History Month Open Marketplace - Ngina wa Kaai & Caylee Kreller

The Black History Month (BHM) Marketplace is an exciting and vibrant event that brings together local Black-owned businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services. This marketplace serves as a platform to celebrate and support the contributions of Black entrepreneurs to the community, while also providing an opportunity for attendees to discover unique and culturally rich items. 

Food bank drive for SANQC featuring African & Caribbean-inspired vendors: Registration is a donation to the SANQC Food bank. Open to the Edmonton community 

Location: SCFL, Atrium
Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

Wednesday, February 5, 2025 - Workshops 

Destigmatizing the Stigma of Mental Health – Viola Manokore

This session focuses on breaking the barriers surrounding mental health conversations within communities, particularly in African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) spaces. Viola Monakore will lead an open and empowering dialogue, emphasizing that "it's okay not to be okay." Attendees will explore the importance of mental well-being, recognize the impact of stigma, and gain tools to foster understanding and support for those facing mental health challenges.  

Location: CELT 5-212
Time: 9:30 – 10:30 am

Self Esteem & Empowerment: LINC Workshop – Irene Barnes & Hellen Juma 

This interactive workshop aims to inspire and uplift participants, focusing on building self-esteem and fostering a sense of empowerment. Tailored for LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) learners, the session encourages self-confidence, explores strategies for personal growth, and highlights the importance of resilience in navigating new environments. 

Location: SCFL, Atrium
Time: 9:30 – 10:30 am 

Parenting the ACB child in the diaspora – Michelle McKenzie 

Parenting African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) children in the diaspora involves balancing cultural heritage, societal expectations, and systemic challenges. This workshop explores tools and strategies to foster identity, self-worth, and resilience in children while helping them navigate and integrate their cultural roots with their current environment. 

Location: CELT 3-241
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 am 

Exploring the History and Care of ACB Hair– Afrodisiac Naturals 

This interactive workshop celebrates African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) hair through a blend of theory and hands-on practice. Participants will explore the cultural significance and history of ACB hair, with insights into Canadian and American contexts, while gaining practical skills in hair care techniques such as detangling, parting, shampooing, two-strand twists, and three-strand braids. 

Location: CELT 2-237
Time: 10:30– 11:30 am 

Black History in Alberta & Canada: Abdulmajid Jimale (Staff Workshop) 

This workshop explores the rich and often overlooked history of Black communities in Canada. Participants will journey through the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of African, Caribbean, and Black individuals, from early settlements to present-day achievements. Highlighting resilience, innovation, and cultural influence, this session provides a deeper understanding of the significant role Black Canadians have played in shaping the nation’s history and identity. 

Time: 10:30 – 11:30 am 
Location: Jasper Tower J1022

Connect & Mingle - Hellen Juma 

Taste of the Diaspora

This event offers a flavorful journey through traditional and contemporary dishes from Africa that reflect vibrant cultures and histories. It’s a chance to explore, connect, and savor the tastes that bring people together. 

Voices of NorQuest: Ruquia Raka 

Building Bridges of Consent, Care, and Culture 

Bring your food and join us for a street-style interview series that explores what it means to foster a culture of consent, care, and cultural safety while highlighting the significance of Black History Month and the impact of violence. Share your voice and perspectives to help build a more inclusive, empathetic, and connected campus community. 

Time: 11:30 am – 12:45 pm
Location: SCFL, Atrium 

Saturday,  February 8, 2025  

Black Boys Coding Event for youth (ages 8- 17) 

Engage the kids this Black History Month with a free digital literacy workshop designed for Black youth. This interactive session will introduce young minds to the exciting worlds of robotics, coding, and game development, fostering creativity and technological skills. 40 spots available! 

Register here - Black Boys Coding Event 

Time: 1:00 - 5:00 pm
Location: CELT 4-205 

Monday February 10, 2025 - LINC Workshops 

Black History in Alberta & Canada: Abdulmajid Jimale 

This workshop explores the rich and often overlooked history of Black communities in Canada. Participants will journey through the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of African, Caribbean, and Black individuals, from early settlements to present-day achievements. Highlighting resilience, innovation, and cultural influence, this session provides a deeper understanding of the significant role Black Canadians have played in shaping the nation’s history and identity. 

Location: SCFL 3-071
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am  

Men’s Mental Health: Kingsley Moyo 

This workshop addresses the often-overlooked topic of mental health among Black men, exploring the unique challenges they face, such as stigma, cultural pressures, and generational trauma. It aims to create a safe space for open discussion, share coping strategies, and promote mental well-being. Participants will gain insight into how to recognize mental health struggles, foster resilience, and build supportive environments for Black men to prioritize their mental health. 

Location: CELT 5-209
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm  

From Enduring to Flourishing: Michelle McKenzie & Christine Womiloju 

This session will explore the journey of Black women through shared experiences, stories, and insights, the workshop will empower participants to celebrate the multifaceted identity of Black women and foster a deeper understanding of what it means to thrive. 

Location: SCFL 3-071
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm  

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 

Black History Month Symposium: Irene Barnes & Samantha Parchment-Andrews

The BHM symposium aims to educate, inspire, and foster meaningful dialogue about the unique challenges and triumphs of the African, Caribbean & Black communities featuring guest performers and speakers who have impacted Black History in Alberta. We are honored to welcome MLA David Shepherd as our keynote speaker for our symposium. Mr. Shepherd was one of the key advocates for the official recognition of Black History Month in Alberta, a significant milestone for the ACB community within Canada.

Our guest artists include the multi-talented saxophonist Paul Thorne and the phenomenal spoken word artist Lisa Dublin. We will also feature a performance by the Intervarsity Mass Choir directed by the award-winning music director Dr. Joke and a panel discussion with panelists from the University of Alberta, MacEwan University, NorQuest College,  NAIT and Concordia University. To close the day on a high note, enjoy some lighthearted comedy with Rash Lawrenzo, followed by interactive dance and drumming sessions for all.

Time: 10:00 am – 3:00pm
12:30 – 1:30 Lunch (Taste of the Caribbean)
Location: SCFL, Atrium
Panel Facilitator: Nadira Barre