Black History Month 2025 - Theme and Premise
“I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny,” calls us to reflect on the power of self-determination and resistance within the Black community. This theme represents the strength of individuals who have taken control of their futures, navigating adversity with grace and courage. Rooted in the Rastafarian view of interconnectedness and self-empowerment, “I and I” echoes the African principle of Ubuntu. It reminds us that while our paths may be personal, we are united by a shared destiny and a collective spirit that transcends borders and time.
Throughout Black History Month 2025, we will honour those who have charted their own paths—those who, in the face of immense challenges, chose to rule their destinies. We will lift up the stories of pioneers in politics, science, the arts and education who broke barriers and made their mark on history. We will celebrate those who refused to be defined by the limitations of their time, choosing instead to write their own stories and, in doing so, inspire generations to come.
Ultimately, “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny” is about breaking chains—emancipating ourselves. It celebrates not only those who defied systemic barriers but also those who continue to uplift the community today. It asks individuals to consider how they can forge their own destinies while also contributing to the collective progress of Africans everywhere. It is a call to action that asks both for introspection and a reaffirmation of communal solidarity.
It goes beyond celebrating individual triumphs—to centreing the power of unity. “I and I [We] Wanna Rule [Our] Destiny” emphasizes the strength of collective action, the importance of community, and the belief that our success is intertwined with each other. As we reflect on our shared journey, we are reminded that our destinies are interconnected. United, we can continue to push boundaries, break down barriers, and shape a future that embodies the promise of Black liberation and hope.
Jerisha Grant-Hall
Chairperson
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association
Throughout Black History Month 2025, we will honour those who have charted their own paths—those who, in the face of immense challenges, chose to rule their destinies. We will lift up the stories of pioneers in politics, science, the arts and education who broke barriers and made their mark on history. We will celebrate those who refused to be defined by the limitations of their time, choosing instead to write their own stories and, in doing so, inspire generations to come.
Ultimately, “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny” is about breaking chains—emancipating ourselves. It celebrates not only those who defied systemic barriers but also those who continue to uplift the community today. It asks individuals to consider how they can forge their own destinies while also contributing to the collective progress of Africans everywhere. It is a call to action that asks both for introspection and a reaffirmation of communal solidarity.
It goes beyond celebrating individual triumphs—to centreing the power of unity. “I and I [We] Wanna Rule [Our] Destiny” emphasizes the strength of collective action, the importance of community, and the belief that our success is intertwined with each other. As we reflect on our shared journey, we are reminded that our destinies are interconnected. United, we can continue to push boundaries, break down barriers, and shape a future that embodies the promise of Black liberation and hope.
Jerisha Grant-Hall
Chairperson
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association
Message from Mayor John Taylor |
Message from NACCA Chairperson, Jerisha Grant-Hall |
Black History Month Programming
Black History Month reception, Art Exhibition & Ujamaa Marketplace
Saturday, February 1, 2025 l Time: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Reception program begins at 11:30 a.m.) l Newmarket Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) l Free Admission
Join us as we kick off Black History Month with the annual reception emceed by Emily Mills, award-winning founder of How She Hustles, a Toronto-based network that connects diverse women through digital content and special events.
This event will feature a panel of distinguished experts who are leaders and/or entrepreneurs in health and wellness, technology and supply chain industries, drumming and dance performances, spoken word and more. See the unveiling of our gallery exhibition highlighting this year’s theme, “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny,” and browse the popular Ujamaa Marketplace to meet and support local Black-owned businesses offering unique cultural products and services.
Register here
Join us as we kick off Black History Month with the annual reception emceed by Emily Mills, award-winning founder of How She Hustles, a Toronto-based network that connects diverse women through digital content and special events.
This event will feature a panel of distinguished experts who are leaders and/or entrepreneurs in health and wellness, technology and supply chain industries, drumming and dance performances, spoken word and more. See the unveiling of our gallery exhibition highlighting this year’s theme, “I and I, I Wanna Rule My Destiny,” and browse the popular Ujamaa Marketplace to meet and support local Black-owned businesses offering unique cultural products and services.
Register here
Emcee - Emily Mills
Emily Mills is the award-winning founder of How She Hustles – one of Canada’s trusted brands to engage diverse women entrepreneurs and leaders. She’s an in-demand public speaker - her other services include marketing consulting, digital influencer campaigns and event production.
For more than a decade, How She Hustles has connected BIPOC women and amplified their voices, by hosting sold-out networking events and producing buzzworthy digital content. How She Hustles’ notable projects include HERstory in Black with CBC and the Startup & Slay entrepreneur series with CIBC, Shopify and Rogers Sports & Media.
Emily has worked with nearly 100 brands including Globe and Mail, BMW Foundation, BDC, Luminato, Penguin Random House, YWCA Canada, City of Brampton and more.
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For more than a decade, How She Hustles has connected BIPOC women and amplified their voices, by hosting sold-out networking events and producing buzzworthy digital content. How She Hustles’ notable projects include HERstory in Black with CBC and the Startup & Slay entrepreneur series with CIBC, Shopify and Rogers Sports & Media.
Emily has worked with nearly 100 brands including Globe and Mail, BMW Foundation, BDC, Luminato, Penguin Random House, YWCA Canada, City of Brampton and more.
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Featuring, Panel Discussion - "Empowering Futures: Leadership, Innovation and Wellness for Black Destiny"
Moderator - Dr. Bimpe Ayeni
Dr. Bimpe Ayeni is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon. She completed her undergraduate training at Yale University and obtained a Master's in Public Health at Columbia University in New York City. She returned home to Canada for her medical training at the University of Ottawa followed by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training at McMaster University. Dr. Ayeni was offered a prestigious Fellowship position to train in Boston, at the world-renowned Harvard University. Dr. Ayeni now works at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket, Ontario where she recently completed a term as the Chief of Plastic Surgery. She lives in the GTA with her husband Ade, and their 6-year-old twins, Blair and Jackson.
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Panelist - Dr. Chika Oriuwa
Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a graduate of the University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, where she was named the valedictorian of her graduating medical class in 2020. She is a physician, professional spoken word poet, international public speaker, writer, and champion of authentic leadership through genuine human connections.
Presently, Dr. Oriuwa is completing her residency in psychiatry at the University of Toronto where she aims to go on to complete further sub-specialist training in neuro-psychiatry. Dr. Oriuwa has served on a variety of boards, using her expertise to influence their efforts in creating equal opportunity and curating spaces of wellness and artistic expression. She is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards and honours, including being recognized as one of Best Health Magazine's '2020 Women of the Year' and TIME Magazine's 2021 Next Generation Leaders. Continue Reading |
Panelist - Joel Callou
Joel Callou is a visionary leader making waves in the tech industry. He is the founder of OpenPinna, a Toronto-based startup transforming community safety with groundbreaking AI technology. A proud alumnus of the prestigious Kingston College, where he served as president of the student council, Joel’s leadership journey began early. He later studied law at the University of the West Indies, laying the foundation for his enduring commitment to equity and justice.
Born and raised in Jamaica, Joel grew up in a single-parent home with his mother and sister, who continue to inspire him with their resilience and strength. He also draws motivation from his grandmother, who, despite halting her education at grade 8, ensured that her children achieved what she could not. These personal experiences shaped Joel’s passion for creating opportunities for marginalized communities. Continue Reading |
Panelist - Simon Mayeto
Simon Lunkebila Mayeto is the owner and Pharmacy Manager of Ida Faith Pharmacy & Medical Clinic, located at 100 Bond Street East, Unit # 3 in Oshawa, ON. With a rich background in both academic and professional pharmacy practice, Simon has cultivated a diverse and impactful career.
Simon earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of Toronto’s Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and holds a Master’s degree in Toxicology and Environmental Studies from the University of Toronto and York University. Additionally, Simon completed a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Health Studies at York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Kinshasa. Continue Reading |
Flag-raising Ceremony
Monday, February 3, 2025 l Time: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. l Municipal Offices (395 Mulock Drive, Newmarket)
The Pan-African Flag will be raised at the Municipal Offices to commemorate Black History Month. This ceremony celebrates the rich heritage, culture and invaluable contributions of people of African descent to our community.
Register here
The Pan-African Flag will be raised at the Municipal Offices to commemorate Black History Month. This ceremony celebrates the rich heritage, culture and invaluable contributions of people of African descent to our community.
Register here
Falls Illumination
Tuesday, February 11, 2025 l Dusk to 11 p.m. l Riverwalk Commons (200 Doug Duncan Drive)
Witness the beauty of local waterfalls illuminated in yellow and green. This display serves as a tribute to Black History Month, celebrating the richness of African heritage and the beauty of our diverse communities. Bring a friend or loved one to experience this purposeful tribute which honours the past and inspires the future.
Witness the beauty of local waterfalls illuminated in yellow and green. This display serves as a tribute to Black History Month, celebrating the richness of African heritage and the beauty of our diverse communities. Bring a friend or loved one to experience this purposeful tribute which honours the past and inspires the future.
“Regulating My Energy to Rule My Destiny” with Nyahsa Ysrayl
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Wednesday, February 19, 2025 l Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. l Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)
Participate in this empowering workshop and learn how to harness powerful techniques like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to cleanse and protect your energy field, reprogram your subconscious mind, and enhance overall wellness.
Through interactive exercises and demonstrations, you’ll discover how to shift your energy, release limiting beliefs, and foster emotional resilience. This workshop will help you cultivate a mindset aligned with your true desires, empowering you to rule your destiny with clarity, confidence and balance.
Nyahsa Ysrayl is an Inventive Change-Maker and founder of Elevated Grounds (EG). EG is an Education and Wellness Consulting Agency dedicated to human transformation through the fusion of cutting-edge AI technology, emotional intelligence, and ancient wisdom. Nyahsa is a Certified Masters level Social Worker, and an Integrative Energy Healing Practitioner specializing in EFT. She draws from modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT Somatic and Music Therapy, EMDR, Heart Coherence, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to promote healing and resilience.
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Register here
Participate in this empowering workshop and learn how to harness powerful techniques like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to cleanse and protect your energy field, reprogram your subconscious mind, and enhance overall wellness.
Through interactive exercises and demonstrations, you’ll discover how to shift your energy, release limiting beliefs, and foster emotional resilience. This workshop will help you cultivate a mindset aligned with your true desires, empowering you to rule your destiny with clarity, confidence and balance.
Nyahsa Ysrayl is an Inventive Change-Maker and founder of Elevated Grounds (EG). EG is an Education and Wellness Consulting Agency dedicated to human transformation through the fusion of cutting-edge AI technology, emotional intelligence, and ancient wisdom. Nyahsa is a Certified Masters level Social Worker, and an Integrative Energy Healing Practitioner specializing in EFT. She draws from modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT Somatic and Music Therapy, EMDR, Heart Coherence, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to promote healing and resilience.
Continue Reading
Register here
Paint & Sip with Chika Oh
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Sunday, February 23, 2025 l Time: 2 to 4 p.m. l Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue)
Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This interactive art session, accompanied by refreshments, allows participants to explore their artistic talents while reflecting on themes of self-determination and community. A professional artist, Chika Oh, will guide the session, ensuring both beginners and experienced painters can enjoy creating something meaningful.
From a young age, Chika discovered that the arts were not only her passion but also the avenue through which she thrived and connected with the world. Painting, in particular, has been one of the many creative outlets that allow her to learn, express herself authentically, and communicate in ways words often cannot. Through this medium, she has been able to transform her creativity into a meaningful source of income while staying true to her voice and vision.
Continue Reading
Register here
Unleash your creativity in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This interactive art session, accompanied by refreshments, allows participants to explore their artistic talents while reflecting on themes of self-determination and community. A professional artist, Chika Oh, will guide the session, ensuring both beginners and experienced painters can enjoy creating something meaningful.
From a young age, Chika discovered that the arts were not only her passion but also the avenue through which she thrived and connected with the world. Painting, in particular, has been one of the many creative outlets that allow her to learn, express herself authentically, and communicate in ways words often cannot. Through this medium, she has been able to transform her creativity into a meaningful source of income while staying true to her voice and vision.
Continue Reading
Register here
Community Vision Board Experience - Envision Your Future: A Vision Board Experience for Growth and Community
February 1 to 28 l Newmarket Public Library (438 Park Avenue) l Community Gallery at Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street)
Join us this Black History Month for a powerful month-long Vision Board experience at Newmarket Public Library and Old Town Hall’s Community Gallery located behind Serpa Gallery on the ground floor. This is a space where you can envision not only your own dreams but also a brighter future for our community. This hands-on activity invites you to connect with your purpose, draw strength from our shared heritage and build a vision that reflects personal growth, collective strength and cultural legacy.
Whether you are setting goals for health, career, creativity or social impact, this experience will inspire you to see beyond the present and contribute to the legacy of generations to come. Visit anytime during the month to add your voice to our Legacy Wall and let your dreams inspire others.
Join us this Black History Month for a powerful month-long Vision Board experience at Newmarket Public Library and Old Town Hall’s Community Gallery located behind Serpa Gallery on the ground floor. This is a space where you can envision not only your own dreams but also a brighter future for our community. This hands-on activity invites you to connect with your purpose, draw strength from our shared heritage and build a vision that reflects personal growth, collective strength and cultural legacy.
Whether you are setting goals for health, career, creativity or social impact, this experience will inspire you to see beyond the present and contribute to the legacy of generations to come. Visit anytime during the month to add your voice to our Legacy Wall and let your dreams inspire others.
Black History Month Art Gallery Exhibit
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February 1 to 28 l Old Town Hall (460 Botsford Street) l Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main Street South)
Stop by the Old Town Hall and/or the Elman W. Campbell Museum for an inspiring gallery exhibition celebrating Black History Month 2025. Through powerful visuals, artifacts and storytelling, you will explore the journeys of trailblazers who ruled their destinies and broke barriers in politics, science, arts and education. This exhibition invites you to reflect on the interconnectedness of individual triumphs and collective progress, honouring the legacy of those who shaped history and continue to uplift the community today.
Hours and Locations
Serpa Gallery in Old Town Hall
Tuesday: 11-4:30pm
Wednesday:11-4:30pm
Thursday:11-4:30pm, 5:30-7pm
Friday;11-4:30pm
Saturday:11-4:30pm
BOOK YOUR DOCENT TOUR through [email protected] for any WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. OR 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Elman W. Campbell Museum
Tuesday: 10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Wednesday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Thursday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Friday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Saturday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Stop by the Old Town Hall and/or the Elman W. Campbell Museum for an inspiring gallery exhibition celebrating Black History Month 2025. Through powerful visuals, artifacts and storytelling, you will explore the journeys of trailblazers who ruled their destinies and broke barriers in politics, science, arts and education. This exhibition invites you to reflect on the interconnectedness of individual triumphs and collective progress, honouring the legacy of those who shaped history and continue to uplift the community today.
Hours and Locations
Serpa Gallery in Old Town Hall
Tuesday: 11-4:30pm
Wednesday:11-4:30pm
Thursday:11-4:30pm, 5:30-7pm
Friday;11-4:30pm
Saturday:11-4:30pm
BOOK YOUR DOCENT TOUR through [email protected] for any WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. OR 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Elman W. Campbell Museum
Tuesday: 10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Wednesday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Thursday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Friday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Saturday:10-12 noon, 1-4pm
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Presenting
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