Kuumba Summer Camp is Back July 4th - August 18th!
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) is pleased to offer Kuumba Summer Camp for youth, 6 – 13 years of age, who identify as Black and of African heritage.
Kuumba Summer Camp will operate from Tuesday, July 4 – Friday, August 18, 2023, weekdays, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM at 449 Eagle Street in Newmarket.
Camp will feature Black-centered and fun-filled experiences from our Summer Reading and Art Starts Here Programs to Outdoor Adventures, Field Trips, Swimming, Culinary and Gardening Workshops to Skin and Hair Care and more!
Your child will experience a boost to their positive self-awareness, self-confidence and grow in the love and knowledge of their culture. Inspired by Black youth for Black youth!
Space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
Cost: $175 registration fee (7 weeks) | Registration fee may be e-transfered to accounting@naccacommunity.ca
Please direct questions or concerns by email to camp@naccacommunity.ca
Kuumba Summer Camp will operate from Tuesday, July 4 – Friday, August 18, 2023, weekdays, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM at 449 Eagle Street in Newmarket.
Camp will feature Black-centered and fun-filled experiences from our Summer Reading and Art Starts Here Programs to Outdoor Adventures, Field Trips, Swimming, Culinary and Gardening Workshops to Skin and Hair Care and more!
Your child will experience a boost to their positive self-awareness, self-confidence and grow in the love and knowledge of their culture. Inspired by Black youth for Black youth!
Space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
Cost: $175 registration fee (7 weeks) | Registration fee may be e-transfered to accounting@naccacommunity.ca
Please direct questions or concerns by email to camp@naccacommunity.ca
NACCA Presents T.E.A.C.H.
A six week program beginning Nov. 9, 2022
T.E.A.C.H (Training, Empowerment, Advocacy, Counselling, Help) is a program that seeks to offer education and community connections as it pertains to Black youth mental health and well-being practices. We are holding a six-week workshop series on mental health for Black youth between the ages of 12 and 25. Topics will centre Black youth, their experiences, identity, mental health and so much more!
When: Every Wednesday from November 9, 2022 – December 14, 2022
Where: In-person at 449 Eagle Street and virtual via zoom
Take the youth survey HERE
Register for the program HERE
T.E.A.C.H. is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to help build resiliency in the community as a result of covid-19.
T.E.A.C.H Week # 1
The Context of Blackness.
I'm Dripping Melanin and Honey: Understanding my Identity
The Impact & Pervasiveness of Anti-Black Racism on Black youth
Understanding the "ABC's" of Mental Health
Everyone is talking about mental health these days. What does " mental health" even mean? This workshop will have discussions and activities that will explain what mental health is, what are some common mental health challenges, how to regulate and understand your emotions and finally some coping strategies that can be helpful for a lifetime!
T.E.A.C.H Week # 4
Covid-19 & Youth Mental Health
Covid- 19 took the world, spun her on her axis and made many of us sick. Most of the world lived in Isolation, fear and loss. As people of Black, African, Caribbean or indigenous cultures, our collective and individual experiences of Covid-19 added unhealthy layers. Today, Covid- 19 is still here; have we learned how to manage our lives differently? What are the effects of experiences with Covid-19? This workshop seeks to have open dialogue and engaging activities around how Covid-19 affected youth mental health and how to support themselves moving forward.
T.E.A.C.H Week # 5
Decolonizing the mind: Advocacy and Strategies for Supporting Black Youth Mental Health
Ever wonder why people talk about " light skin vs dark skin" or constantly try to ask " where are you from?" Even though you are born Canadian with Caribbean, African or even American roots? This workshop is for you!
In this workshop we will discuss and have fun interactions to understand how colonialism shows up in our everyday individual and societal behaviours and thoughts. We will look at how you, as a young person, can start the process of decolonizing your mind and develop positive practices and ways of thinking that will make you live a more fulfilling life!
T.E.A.C.H Week # 6
My Responsibilities to my Mental Health
After learning about mental health earlier in this workshop series, we aim to take it a step further with our youth and get hands on skills with taking care of ourselves.
This workshop will have discussion on mental health stigma, how to take responsibility for our mental health, the benefits of maintaining our mental health and the Who, What and where of mental health support. This workshop will be interactive as young folks will get the opportunity to set the stage on how to start a healthy mental health journey based on their needs!
When: Every Wednesday from November 9, 2022 – December 14, 2022
Where: In-person at 449 Eagle Street and virtual via zoom
Take the youth survey HERE
Register for the program HERE
T.E.A.C.H. is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to help build resiliency in the community as a result of covid-19.
T.E.A.C.H Week # 1
The Context of Blackness.
I'm Dripping Melanin and Honey: Understanding my Identity
- What is identity?
- How does it affect your mental health?
- Self acceptance: what does it mean to be Black & proud?
The Impact & Pervasiveness of Anti-Black Racism on Black youth
- What is racism?
- What is anti-Black racism and anti-oppression?
- How does racism intersect with youth culture?
- Building self-esteem and setting boundaries for mental health
Understanding the "ABC's" of Mental Health
Everyone is talking about mental health these days. What does " mental health" even mean? This workshop will have discussions and activities that will explain what mental health is, what are some common mental health challenges, how to regulate and understand your emotions and finally some coping strategies that can be helpful for a lifetime!
T.E.A.C.H Week # 4
Covid-19 & Youth Mental Health
Covid- 19 took the world, spun her on her axis and made many of us sick. Most of the world lived in Isolation, fear and loss. As people of Black, African, Caribbean or indigenous cultures, our collective and individual experiences of Covid-19 added unhealthy layers. Today, Covid- 19 is still here; have we learned how to manage our lives differently? What are the effects of experiences with Covid-19? This workshop seeks to have open dialogue and engaging activities around how Covid-19 affected youth mental health and how to support themselves moving forward.
T.E.A.C.H Week # 5
Decolonizing the mind: Advocacy and Strategies for Supporting Black Youth Mental Health
Ever wonder why people talk about " light skin vs dark skin" or constantly try to ask " where are you from?" Even though you are born Canadian with Caribbean, African or even American roots? This workshop is for you!
In this workshop we will discuss and have fun interactions to understand how colonialism shows up in our everyday individual and societal behaviours and thoughts. We will look at how you, as a young person, can start the process of decolonizing your mind and develop positive practices and ways of thinking that will make you live a more fulfilling life!
T.E.A.C.H Week # 6
My Responsibilities to my Mental Health
After learning about mental health earlier in this workshop series, we aim to take it a step further with our youth and get hands on skills with taking care of ourselves.
This workshop will have discussion on mental health stigma, how to take responsibility for our mental health, the benefits of maintaining our mental health and the Who, What and where of mental health support. This workshop will be interactive as young folks will get the opportunity to set the stage on how to start a healthy mental health journey based on their needs!
Youth School Success Initiative (YSSI)
Weekly Programming- Ongoing Counseling Services Available
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) is a proud partner of the Youth School Success Initiative (YSSI) which is an ethno-specific collaborative made up of 7 York and Toronto-based agencies working together to empower the educational and holistic success of Black youth in York and Toronto regions. YSSI will deliver a wrap-around program that best meets the needs of identified Black youth in the York Region and Toronto District School Boards.
Mental Health Education and Support
NACCAs vision is to focus on African positive identity formation/ Rites of passage as a foundation for mental wellness, and supporting children in developing a positive sense of self.
Childhood and adolescence are critical stages of life for mental health. This is a time when rapid growth and development take place in the brain.
The quality of the environment where children and adolescents grow up shapes their well-being and development. Early negative experiences in homes, schools, or digital spaces, such as exposure to violence, the mental illness of a parent or other caregiver, bullying and poverty, increase the risk of mental illness.
The consequences of not addressing mental health and psychosocial development for children and adolescents extend to adulthood and limit opportunities for leading fulfilling lives.
Program starts September 20, 2022. Click the link below to register! Visit the program page here
Mental Health Education and Support
NACCAs vision is to focus on African positive identity formation/ Rites of passage as a foundation for mental wellness, and supporting children in developing a positive sense of self.
Childhood and adolescence are critical stages of life for mental health. This is a time when rapid growth and development take place in the brain.
The quality of the environment where children and adolescents grow up shapes their well-being and development. Early negative experiences in homes, schools, or digital spaces, such as exposure to violence, the mental illness of a parent or other caregiver, bullying and poverty, increase the risk of mental illness.
The consequences of not addressing mental health and psychosocial development for children and adolescents extend to adulthood and limit opportunities for leading fulfilling lives.
Program starts September 20, 2022. Click the link below to register! Visit the program page here
Registration Now Open for Kuumba Summer Camp!
Weekly Forecast
Parents: Daily Sign In and Sign Out Required
CAMP Starts Friday Aug 5th and ends Friday Aug 19th. Time - 10:00 to 3:30 PM Daily with the exception of August 15th - Start time 9:30 to 3:30 PM.
Week 1 - Gardening, Culinary Workshop, Youth Team Led Activity, Black Hair Care, Summer Reading Club, Peter Gorman Pool Swim, Arts Start Here & Black Skin Care.
Week 2 - Black Hair Care, Black Skin Care, Summer Reading Club, Peter Gorman Swim, Art Starts Here, Financial Literacy & Kuumba Camp Wrap Up.
Friday, August 5
Daily Theme: Lets Get to Know Each other – Games and Gardening (Social Skills Building)
Welcome all campers! What better way to kick off the start of the summer than partaking in some get to know you games and fun-filled outdoor activities. We’ll also enjoy some outdoor gardening fun and know-how and learn about growing your own food with the York Region Food Network. This is sure to put everyone in summer-fun mode! Campers will make tons of new friends this first day of camp, finishing off with an outdoor scavenger hunt and water games!
Be sure to bring: A hat, sunscreen, Lunch, 2 snacks, change of clothes, comfortable footwear and a smile! We will provide a NACCA water bottle!
Monday, August 8 (UPDATE: morning location change due to rainy day - campers arrive at 10am to 449 Eagle street)
Daily Theme: Cook & Learn Kitchen Skills – Loving my Hair!
Camp fun has only begun! In the morning, campers will be learning about skills for the kitchen and safety when helping to prepare meals at home with Chef Maxine from the York Region Food Network. Your child will learn how to work in a team and prepare healthy meals. In the afternoon, they will learn about the uniqueness of their hair while boosting their self-confidence. Campers will learn how to engage with kinky hair through detangling, washing, blow-drying combing and styling. They will also create their own scalp cleanser and hair oil using natural ingredients!
Tuesday, August 9
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Wednesday, August 10
Daily Theme: Creative Me! – Loving my Skin!
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Your child will be supported to love their whole self and develop a positive racial identity.
Thursday, August 11
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Friday, August 12
Daily Theme: Creative Me – Eye Spy! (Self Awareness Building).
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Your child will participate in fun youth led activities.
Monday, August 15
Daily Theme: Loving my Hair! Activity Time (Well-being).
Today, your child will be supported to love themselves and embrace a positive racial identity. They will be taught hair care, hair love and how to treat kinky hair the right way for optimal hair health. They will engage in a conversation about their own experiences, sharing and discovering things that help to form their own identity. Campers will develop communication skills and confidence in authentically expressing the fullness of who they are and who they want to become. They will begin to see the link between the principle of Kujichagulia and their own positive Afrikan identity formation. In the afternoon, clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, Micah Dell, will join the campers for a session on wellness.
Tuesday, August 16
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Wednesday, August 17
Daily Theme: Creative Me! Learning how to save money.
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Inspector Kolin Alexander will join the campers and guide them to make their own carnival masks. In the afternoon, your child will learn various economic and financial concepts (the basics of personal finances) to encourage them to make intelligent financial decisions independently. They will learn how to save, invest, manage a budget, and how credit works.
Thursday, August 18
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Author, Yolanda T. Marshall, will join campers and take them on an educational journey where they will learn about Canada's Caribbean Carnival. "C is for Carnival" features a diverse cast of children in vibrant costume as they 'play mas' while dancing to Soca and Calypso music. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Friday, August 19
Daily Theme: Loving my Skin! Camp Kuumba Wrap up!
Your child will be supported to love themselves and develop a positive racial identity through culturally relevant skincare education. Campers will learn about skincare routine including how to moisturize and keep darker skin hydrated. They will develop an understanding of the characteristics of tween/teenage skincare from the physical to the psychological. The Camp Coordinator will Wrap Up the series with fun closing activities!
Parents: It is important that campers DO NOT bring any MONEY or VALUABLES to camp. Campers are to bring a lunch, two snacks, plenty to drink, a hat, insect repellant and sunscreen every day. Please label your child’s belongings. Please direct questions or concerns by email to info@naccacommunity.ca | (905) 781-6222 | $25 Registration fees can be etransfered to accounting@naccacommunity.ca or pay by cash at sign in.
Parents: Daily Sign In and Sign Out Required
CAMP Starts Friday Aug 5th and ends Friday Aug 19th. Time - 10:00 to 3:30 PM Daily with the exception of August 15th - Start time 9:30 to 3:30 PM.
Week 1 - Gardening, Culinary Workshop, Youth Team Led Activity, Black Hair Care, Summer Reading Club, Peter Gorman Pool Swim, Arts Start Here & Black Skin Care.
Week 2 - Black Hair Care, Black Skin Care, Summer Reading Club, Peter Gorman Swim, Art Starts Here, Financial Literacy & Kuumba Camp Wrap Up.
Friday, August 5
Daily Theme: Lets Get to Know Each other – Games and Gardening (Social Skills Building)
Welcome all campers! What better way to kick off the start of the summer than partaking in some get to know you games and fun-filled outdoor activities. We’ll also enjoy some outdoor gardening fun and know-how and learn about growing your own food with the York Region Food Network. This is sure to put everyone in summer-fun mode! Campers will make tons of new friends this first day of camp, finishing off with an outdoor scavenger hunt and water games!
Be sure to bring: A hat, sunscreen, Lunch, 2 snacks, change of clothes, comfortable footwear and a smile! We will provide a NACCA water bottle!
Monday, August 8 (UPDATE: morning location change due to rainy day - campers arrive at 10am to 449 Eagle street)
Daily Theme: Cook & Learn Kitchen Skills – Loving my Hair!
Camp fun has only begun! In the morning, campers will be learning about skills for the kitchen and safety when helping to prepare meals at home with Chef Maxine from the York Region Food Network. Your child will learn how to work in a team and prepare healthy meals. In the afternoon, they will learn about the uniqueness of their hair while boosting their self-confidence. Campers will learn how to engage with kinky hair through detangling, washing, blow-drying combing and styling. They will also create their own scalp cleanser and hair oil using natural ingredients!
Tuesday, August 9
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Wednesday, August 10
Daily Theme: Creative Me! – Loving my Skin!
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Your child will be supported to love their whole self and develop a positive racial identity.
Thursday, August 11
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Friday, August 12
Daily Theme: Creative Me – Eye Spy! (Self Awareness Building).
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Your child will participate in fun youth led activities.
Monday, August 15
Daily Theme: Loving my Hair! Activity Time (Well-being).
Today, your child will be supported to love themselves and embrace a positive racial identity. They will be taught hair care, hair love and how to treat kinky hair the right way for optimal hair health. They will engage in a conversation about their own experiences, sharing and discovering things that help to form their own identity. Campers will develop communication skills and confidence in authentically expressing the fullness of who they are and who they want to become. They will begin to see the link between the principle of Kujichagulia and their own positive Afrikan identity formation. In the afternoon, clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, Micah Dell, will join the campers for a session on wellness.
Tuesday, August 16
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Wednesday, August 17
Daily Theme: Creative Me! Learning how to save money.
Today, campers will express their creativity through art. These activities can enhance mental health and wellbeing as well as foster a range of developmental skills. Art will promote confidence, problem solving, patience, determination and creativity. Inspector Kolin Alexander will join the campers and guide them to make their own carnival masks. In the afternoon, your child will learn various economic and financial concepts (the basics of personal finances) to encourage them to make intelligent financial decisions independently. They will learn how to save, invest, manage a budget, and how credit works.
Thursday, August 18
Daily Theme: Black Authors Summer Reading and Afternoon Swim!
Campers will be reading books from a wide selection of Black Authors – Your child will see themselves in the books they read and see people that look like them in writing and illustration. They will be empowered and learn to connect to the content and meaning. Author, Yolanda T. Marshall, will join campers and take them on an educational journey where they will learn about Canada's Caribbean Carnival. "C is for Carnival" features a diverse cast of children in vibrant costume as they 'play mas' while dancing to Soca and Calypso music. Your child will spend quality time with other campers and build self confidence in the afternoon swim activity.
Friday, August 19
Daily Theme: Loving my Skin! Camp Kuumba Wrap up!
Your child will be supported to love themselves and develop a positive racial identity through culturally relevant skincare education. Campers will learn about skincare routine including how to moisturize and keep darker skin hydrated. They will develop an understanding of the characteristics of tween/teenage skincare from the physical to the psychological. The Camp Coordinator will Wrap Up the series with fun closing activities!
Parents: It is important that campers DO NOT bring any MONEY or VALUABLES to camp. Campers are to bring a lunch, two snacks, plenty to drink, a hat, insect repellant and sunscreen every day. Please label your child’s belongings. Please direct questions or concerns by email to info@naccacommunity.ca | (905) 781-6222 | $25 Registration fees can be etransfered to accounting@naccacommunity.ca or pay by cash at sign in.
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Summer Basketball Clinic - Youth 14-18 years old
WE ARE HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE REGISTRATION FOR THE SUMMER BASKETBALL CLINIC HAS REOPENED AND WE ARE ACCEPTING 10 NEW REGISTRANTS. LINK TO REGISTER BELOW.
The Summer Basketball Clinic is a pilot program designed for boys, 14 - 18 years old. The clinic will engage in athletic training as a response to the two year restriction where programs were cancelled. Cancellations have left youth with a tremendous vacuum and damage to their self- worth, confidence, and belief in themselves. Therefore, the program is structured to address both mental health and athleticism. Through the game of basketball, the clinic seeks to help develop relationship skills, coping mechanisms and overall character. Spaces are limited to 20 participants and registration is open to youth on a first come first serve basis.
Program Date: July 02 - August 30
Registration deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2022
Training days: Saturdays, 1PM-3PM
Location: Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Drive
Admission: FREE
Program Date: July 02 - August 30
Registration deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2022
Training days: Saturdays, 1PM-3PM
Location: Magna Centre, 800 Mulock Drive
Admission: FREE
NACCA & First Canada Virtual Summer Camp!
With FTC SIM, students will navigate a virtual classroom with a virtual robot using block code. This exciting tool allows students to visually see what their robot is doing and make corrections in real-time.
This 3D virtual space is incredibly exciting and gets students pumped about robotics and coding. Space is limited, register now!
This 3D virtual space is incredibly exciting and gets students pumped about robotics and coding. Space is limited, register now!
This camp is geared towards students ages 12-16 who may be interested in future STEM endeavors!
During the FREE week long session, students will be provided with a robot kit that they will transform into their own fully operational robot by the end of the session that performs some basic tasks. Students will be able to drive and code these robots.
Session Date and Time:
August 9th to 13th
9 a.m. (ET) to 3:15 p.m. (ET)
What you will receive:
FREE robot ($1500 value)*
FREE live instruction for 5 full days
Access to free coding software
Where:
Camps will be held online and participants will need access to a computer with internet connection with the ability to run zoom. A zoom link will be provided via email as we get closer to camp start date. Space is limited, register now!
*Robots on loan and will be returned to FIRST Canada at the close of the Robotics program.
During the FREE week long session, students will be provided with a robot kit that they will transform into their own fully operational robot by the end of the session that performs some basic tasks. Students will be able to drive and code these robots.
Session Date and Time:
August 9th to 13th
9 a.m. (ET) to 3:15 p.m. (ET)
What you will receive:
FREE robot ($1500 value)*
FREE live instruction for 5 full days
Access to free coding software
Where:
Camps will be held online and participants will need access to a computer with internet connection with the ability to run zoom. A zoom link will be provided via email as we get closer to camp start date. Space is limited, register now!
*Robots on loan and will be returned to FIRST Canada at the close of the Robotics program.
Call for Artwork! (concluded)
In recognition of Black History month the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) is inviting youth in Grades 1 to 12 who self-identify as the people of African descent to submit artwork in any medium responding to the theme: “Standing on Strong Shoulders.”
The call for submissions closes on January 11th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. EST. This is an opportunity for Black youth in Newmarket and across the region to share and express their own individual stories for the community to see. Students can interpret the theme in any way they see fit; however, they must provide a brief description of the artwork and how it relates to the theme. The selected artworks will be featured in a virtual exhibit online from February 1st to 28th, 2021. The Town of Newmarket is partnering with the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) to celebrate Black History Month during February 2021. |
"We are a group of like-minded individuals who are committed to sharing and celebrating our stories, the stories that form the foundation of our collective history." - NACCA
Working closely in partnership with the Town of Newmarket to create culturally relevant and Black affirming spaces, NACCA is actively building a strong and integrated community where Black youth are connected to their past while firmly stepping into their future.
Black History Month 2021 theme – Standing on Strong Shoulders
Black History is intricately woven with the voices of bold Black men and women who have consistently resisted systemic injustices against Black bodies. These stalwarts have been internally driven to voice, not only the need for change, but have also been moved to create and become the change. Advocacy and resistance as a sustained historical and contemporary process requires generational reinforcement, mentorship and strong leadership in order to transform the lived experiences of Black people, not just in Canada, but throughout the diaspora. Black people have always engaged in the process of nurturing opportunities for people to take ownership in becoming self-sufficient, self-confident and self-supporting in social, political, economic and psychological domains. It is not unusual then, that the natural tendency is to go outside one’s self and advocate against whole systems of injustices.
We draw inspiration from Rosemary Brown, a Jamaican born Canadian Politician who observed that “we must open the door and we must see to it they remain open so that others can pass through” It is important, then, that we acknowledge the open door and hold it open for others who will later stand on our shoulders to build, empower and propel us into a more just future.
Submission Deadline: January 11th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. EST.
Cost: No fee for entry
Eligibility: All York Region elementary and secondary school students are eligible to apply. Each student can submit one (1) piece of artwork in any medium for consideration. We are open to any forms of art (e.g. photography, painting, sculpture, multimedia, video, etc.)
Submission Details: Submission to be made via email to nacca.vicechair@gmail.com with subject headline "Standing on Strong Shoulders" or in person on a USB after contacting Janis Luttrell at nacca.vicechair@gmail.com.
A JPG image of the proposed artwork AND a document (in WORD or PDF format) that includes the following information:
You will be contacted by Janis Luttrell regarding the virtual gallery and your work showing.
Any questions: Contact Janis Luttrell, Vice Chair nacca.vicechair@gmail.com
Working closely in partnership with the Town of Newmarket to create culturally relevant and Black affirming spaces, NACCA is actively building a strong and integrated community where Black youth are connected to their past while firmly stepping into their future.
Black History Month 2021 theme – Standing on Strong Shoulders
Black History is intricately woven with the voices of bold Black men and women who have consistently resisted systemic injustices against Black bodies. These stalwarts have been internally driven to voice, not only the need for change, but have also been moved to create and become the change. Advocacy and resistance as a sustained historical and contemporary process requires generational reinforcement, mentorship and strong leadership in order to transform the lived experiences of Black people, not just in Canada, but throughout the diaspora. Black people have always engaged in the process of nurturing opportunities for people to take ownership in becoming self-sufficient, self-confident and self-supporting in social, political, economic and psychological domains. It is not unusual then, that the natural tendency is to go outside one’s self and advocate against whole systems of injustices.
We draw inspiration from Rosemary Brown, a Jamaican born Canadian Politician who observed that “we must open the door and we must see to it they remain open so that others can pass through” It is important, then, that we acknowledge the open door and hold it open for others who will later stand on our shoulders to build, empower and propel us into a more just future.
Submission Deadline: January 11th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. EST.
Cost: No fee for entry
Eligibility: All York Region elementary and secondary school students are eligible to apply. Each student can submit one (1) piece of artwork in any medium for consideration. We are open to any forms of art (e.g. photography, painting, sculpture, multimedia, video, etc.)
Submission Details: Submission to be made via email to nacca.vicechair@gmail.com with subject headline "Standing on Strong Shoulders" or in person on a USB after contacting Janis Luttrell at nacca.vicechair@gmail.com.
A JPG image of the proposed artwork AND a document (in WORD or PDF format) that includes the following information:
- Artist name
- Title of artwork
- Year of creation
- Medium
- Dimensions (length, width, height)
- Brief explanation about the artwork and how it relates to the theme
- Full contact information (full name, phone number or email) * For students under the age of 18 years, parental guardian contact information is required to enter.
- Name of school currently attending
You will be contacted by Janis Luttrell regarding the virtual gallery and your work showing.
Any questions: Contact Janis Luttrell, Vice Chair nacca.vicechair@gmail.com
Thank you to our Sponsors
Djembe Drumming
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What is a Djembe Drum?
The djembe drum is a rope-tuned, skin-covered, and goblet-shaped drum played with your bare hands. The head of the drum is traditionally made from goatskin, which provides the drum with a piercing high-pitched tone and slap sounds. Three main sounds that can be played on a djembe are bass, tone, and slap. The bass sound (low-pitched) is achieved by striking the drum in the middle of the skin with a heavy hand. The tone (medium-pitched) is played with the hand on the edge of the skin, using the wrist as well as the arm to propel the hand towards the drum. The slap (high-pitched) is technically the hardest stroke to achieve. There are many types of slap, all of which are played near the edge.
he djembe is West Africa’s best known instrument. The countries where it gets played the most are Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso. The name of the djembe came from the Bamana in Mali, who said “Anke dje, anke be” to call their people together. People play the djembe on different occasions; such as weddings, celebrations, dancing, or even just coming together. It’s different tribes and people who play the djembe. The drum belongs to the membranophone class of instruments in the percussion family. The djembe drum is about 400-800 years old and was created during the Malian Empire by the Mandé people.
Today, it is played throughout the world. It has traveled across the ocean to Europe, South and North America. The Djembe is truly a global instrument. The Djembe has been a fundamental part of spiritual and ritualistic life in West Africa for many generations. (Source: https://blackmusicscholar.com/djembe-drum/) -
Change to Event: NACCA - Youth Volunteer Cleanup Day Contest
Youth Volunteer Cleanup Day Contest!
When
Sep 19, 2020, 12:00 AM - Sep 19, 2020, 11:59 PM EDT
Join us on September 19 to support the efforts of #WorldCleanupDay. You are welcome to volunteer at any time during the day!
Where
Feel free to select your own clean up location. Whether it is a park, local trail, or your own neighbourhood.
Contact
If you would like to obtain cleanup kits, contact Matthew at naccayouths@gmail.com and we will deliver them to you!
Eligibility Requirements:
1) Must be a resident of Newmarket, Aurora or East Gwillimbury
2) Must be between 5-25 years old
3) Must actually cleanup!
4) Must submit 2 photos of your cleanup story with a description and the locations of where you cleaned up
5) Must give NACCA permission to share your photos
6) Must pass a skill testing question (math or vocabulary).
About this Volunteer Opportunity
Whether you head out solo, as a family, or a small physically-distanced team, this is a safe and simple opportunity to make a difference. Tackle trash on your local trails, sweep up your street or pick-up in the neighbourhood park.
Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
· Follow instructions from Government and Health Organizations
· If you see sharp or large items, please contact your municipality to collect them
· Be sure to know how and where to dispose the collected waste once cleanup is done
· You can volunteer at anytime in any area, even in your own neighborhood
· Bring family & friends. The more, the better!
· Don’t forget to track your hours! Every hour counts towards your high school volunteer hours
· We encourage you to wear your NACCA T shirt or NACCA hoodie, or wear yellow or black if you don’t have one.
· Take photos! We are awarding 3 prizes: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes of $150, $100 and $50 respectively to see who can clean up the largest areas in their local neighbourhoods.
· Bring your supplies: mask, gloves, garbage/recycling bags, hand sanitizer, water bottle
If you are in Newmarket, drop off your garbage bags at the Ray Twinney Recreational Complex (signage will note exact location).
Submission:
Please submit your entry (one entry per family) to
nacca.community@gmail.com by Sunday September 20th at 12 noon. Winners will be announced on Wednesday September 23rd!
When
Sep 19, 2020, 12:00 AM - Sep 19, 2020, 11:59 PM EDT
Join us on September 19 to support the efforts of #WorldCleanupDay. You are welcome to volunteer at any time during the day!
Where
Feel free to select your own clean up location. Whether it is a park, local trail, or your own neighbourhood.
Contact
If you would like to obtain cleanup kits, contact Matthew at naccayouths@gmail.com and we will deliver them to you!
Eligibility Requirements:
1) Must be a resident of Newmarket, Aurora or East Gwillimbury
2) Must be between 5-25 years old
3) Must actually cleanup!
4) Must submit 2 photos of your cleanup story with a description and the locations of where you cleaned up
5) Must give NACCA permission to share your photos
6) Must pass a skill testing question (math or vocabulary).
About this Volunteer Opportunity
Whether you head out solo, as a family, or a small physically-distanced team, this is a safe and simple opportunity to make a difference. Tackle trash on your local trails, sweep up your street or pick-up in the neighbourhood park.
Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
· Follow instructions from Government and Health Organizations
· If you see sharp or large items, please contact your municipality to collect them
· Be sure to know how and where to dispose the collected waste once cleanup is done
· You can volunteer at anytime in any area, even in your own neighborhood
· Bring family & friends. The more, the better!
· Don’t forget to track your hours! Every hour counts towards your high school volunteer hours
· We encourage you to wear your NACCA T shirt or NACCA hoodie, or wear yellow or black if you don’t have one.
· Take photos! We are awarding 3 prizes: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes of $150, $100 and $50 respectively to see who can clean up the largest areas in their local neighbourhoods.
· Bring your supplies: mask, gloves, garbage/recycling bags, hand sanitizer, water bottle
If you are in Newmarket, drop off your garbage bags at the Ray Twinney Recreational Complex (signage will note exact location).
Submission:
Please submit your entry (one entry per family) to
nacca.community@gmail.com by Sunday September 20th at 12 noon. Winners will be announced on Wednesday September 23rd!