The Impact Youth & Cultural Centre is hosting a series of free, virtual events during the month of February to celebrate Black History Month.
The events begin tomorrow Friday, Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. called “And We Rise” and residents can register for the Zoom event online.
The first of seven events will feature a variety of presentations and entertainment all organized by youth from the Impact group ranging from 16 – 18 years of age.
The youth have scheduled steel pan music by Toronto All Stars Steel Orchestra, poem readings, special dances by the Impact Dance Group, as well as statements from Mayor Rob Keffer and Coun. Raj Sandhu.
“This is an opportunity for the community to come and learn about Black History culture and see the black ‘excellence’ within the youth,” shares Cheraldean Duhaney, founder of Impact Youth Centre (formerly known as ‘iLead’). “The main reason for this event is to help build self-esteem for youth in the community, build their self-confidence, and to let their leadership style come out while creating awareness about Black History.”
The Impact group has also organized a collection of guest speakers over the course of the month’s events, including Nini Amerlise (SuperModel Canada Season 1 winner), Janet Jackson (Owner and Creative Director with JouJou Hair Studio), and Dr. Bimpe Ayeni (award-winning and certified Plastic Surgeon with SouthLake Hospital).
Topics will range from fashion etiquette, investments, inspirational stories, career choices, hair care, and a youth business expo featuring youth entrepreneurs who will be showcasing their new and exciting products or services where participants will be able to ‘shop’ in Zoom break-out rooms.
The dates of Impact Youth’s Black History events are listed below, and all begin at 6 p.m.:
- Friday, Feb. 5 (Toronto All Stars Steel Orchestra)
- Saturday, Feb. 6
- Friday, Feb. 12 (featuring Nini Amerlise)
- Wednesday, Feb. 17 (featuring Janet Jackson)
- Friday, Feb. 19 (featuring Dr. Bimpe Ayeni)
- Wednesday, Feb. 24
- Friday, Feb. 26 (Youth Business Expo)
Duhaney shares that the non-profit organization (Impact) is a multi-cultural group that seeks to empower youth, build self-esteem, and encourage positive life choices while becoming strong leaders within the community.
The Impact Youth & Cultural Centre is looking to develop more programs for younger kids that will continue to develop leadership skills. Currently, the group hosts a book club, annual basketball tournaments, and organizes a summer ‘backpack’ drive.
To learn more about the Impact Youth & Cultural Centre's Black History Events, visit: Impact Youth & Cultural Centre | Facebook
