Black History Month 2025
Amplify Your Voice: Celebrating Black Youth in Newfoundland and Labrador
MNL is excited to collaborate with Laurabel Mba Consulting to celebrate and amplify the voices of Black youth in Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative, now in its third year as part of our Black History Month partnership, focuses on empowering youth aged 16 to 30 to share their creativity and stories.
People were asked three questions and invited to submit art, poetry, videos, and more.
Below are the responses, along with any creative works submitted.
Casey Daramola
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being Black means inheriting a great history of resilience, strength, and creativity. It is about recognizing the sacrifices and successes of those who came before us while creating a future full of opportunity. It represents culture, creativity, and community as manifested via food, music, language, and customs passed down through generations. It also entails navigating a world that frequently misunderstands or underestimates us, while consistently rising above, rewriting narratives, and making room for authenticity and brilliance.
Being Black represents pride, power, and an unbreakable bond with history, ancestry, and the global Black experience.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
To me, Black History Month is a dedicated time to reflect and celebrate Black excellence and culture. It is a time to reflect on the significant contributions that Black people have made to society, often against unimaginable odds. It honours the trailblazers, activists, artists, and everyday heroes who pushed for justice and equality, while also highlighting the work that has to be done. It also serves as a reminder of how important exposure and representation are. Black History Month invites everyone to discover and appreciate the rich tapestry of Black history and culture, not just for one month but as an ongoing aspect of our collective narrative.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I want the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to understand that being Black in business, particularly as a young takeout restaurant owner and student, is a journey of resilience, creativity, and determination. It entails facing problems that many others do not, such as limited access to finance and navigating areas where I am frequently the only person who looks like me.
Starting my business from scratch was more than just about making food; it was about demonstrating that passion and hard work can turn challenges into possibilities. It was about demonstrating that Black entrepreneurship is welcome here and that our food, culture, and contributions enrich the community. I want people to understand that supporting Black businesses isn’t charity—it’s an investment in diversity, innovation, and the future of Newfoundland and Labrador. Our presence in this province is growing, and so is our impact. I hope my story inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter the odds.
David Oluwale Joshua
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being Black is a mindset and a set of beliefs in a society
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It means a particular period when the word was found or used.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
Black is not a person it’s just an ideology or an opinion of people in order to communicate.
Effie Tsobgni
What does it mean to you to be Black?
To me it means accepting a beautiful heritage and also accepting the challenges that come with it.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me is a time for us to celebrate all heroes of previous generations and the current generation doing different things to advance and advocate for black people in the community.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
Yes I will.
Shari Egbuchulem
What does it mean to you to be Black?
The concept of Blackness in relation to me implies that I view myself through the lens of whiteness, or perceptions outside of myself. What does it mean to me to be Black? I do not know, for my perception of myself does lies not in the color of my skin.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
I’d say, Black History and Liberation Month is, to me, a period of reflection on the experiences of a group of people in a seemingly global colonial continuum, and a celebration of the resilient spirits and their insistence on creating their own collective and individual narratives.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
That Blackness nothing but a political and divisive term.
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
When you call me Black,
I’m confused,
for it seems you equate me
with others,
based on something I know not.
Black you say I am,
but my mirrors scream otherwise.
My eyes, when I look, reflect
a funny shade of brown.
The color of caramel, or akin – he who views, interprets.
So if, still, I am called Black,
what does that mean?
What is my Black?
I’d say,
My Black is consciousness,
a complex energy field
beaming from the visible brown of my humanness.
A brown varying in shades,
depending on the body part,
depending on the season,
depending on how heavy
the sun’s kisses are
against my skin.
My Black is Igbo,
in a way only my people understand.
My Black is female,
with an animus to beware.
Tell me again,
when you call me Black,
how this very color
defines me
or encompasses these aspects
that still do not tally up
to the whole of me?
Wesley Aubynn
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being Black means standing out, being Black means being an enigma, being Black means being a trailblazer, being Black means being a work of art as well as a creator of art, it means having eyes on me wherever I go, it means being comfortable and confident in my skin in a world that tells me otherwise in many subtle and overt ways, it means beauty.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time where we can platform the beauty and history of Blackness on a stage that often gets drowned out and in some ways silenced through the year. Black History Month allows us Black people to champion our art, businesses and experiences and allows us to focus on community building and supporting each other. It pushes us to remember what it means to be Black in the part of the world we live in, the path of toil and trials that have enabled us to exist in the way we do today, and reminds us to wear our Blackness proudly every single day, in the way we express and present ourselves to the world.
Prosper Manyele
What does it mean to you to be Black?
To be aware.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It means to take initiative in learning the past.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
The burden to be aware.
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
Felix Mba
What does it mean to you to be Black?
To me being Black means being a taste maker, prevalent and impactful. We are at the foundation and root of so much history that it’s harder to find moments we aren’t involved in than it is to find ones we are. Whether it’s policies and traditions created to keep us out or highlight our greatness, we are involved and thought about. We shine and attract amongst our folk and outside of.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s a month more than any other month where I don’t feel arrogant, boastful or anything to unapologetically shout and rejoice everything and anything Black in any and everyone’s face. It’s a month to be Blickity.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
It’s not a monolith nor is it linear. There is no right or wrong way to be Black and it goes well beyond the scope of what conventional media portrays it to be.
Ngozi Osuji-Bells
What does it mean to you to be Black?
It means to work a little harder than everyone else.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
A month that I am easily seen.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
That I’m so much more than my skin colour.
Arinze Jessica
What does it mean to you to be Black?
To be Black is to embody growth. It means pushing forward despite obstacles, turning pain into power, and transforming challenges into triumphs.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month for me is a time of reflection and celebration. It helps in reminding me of the strength and brilliance of those who came before us, which has helped in paving the way for the opportunities we have today.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I would love them to know more about our culture, know that being Black doesn’t mean hardship, poverty, struggles. Instead it means joy, resilience and our experiences are diverse and rich.
Fawaz
What does it mean to you to be Black?
For me, being Black seems to be deeply tied to identity, community, and creativity.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
For me, Black History Month likely represents a time of reflection, celebration, and action.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
Being Black in Newfoundland and Labrador means navigating spaces where representation is limited while still making an impact and building community. I’ve had to carve out spaces for myself in fashion, entertainment, and tech, often being one of the few in the room. But instead of letting that hold me back, I’ve used it as fuel to create, lead, and uplift others.
I want people to know that being Black isn’t a monolith, our experiences are diverse, but what we all deserve is opportunity, representation, and the freedom to thrive. Black youth here have dreams, talent, and drive, and we shouldn’t have to constantly justify our place. We belong, and we’re here to make a difference.
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
Jennifer Ifunanyachukwu Obiekwe
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being Black to me means being free. It means being my authentic self. Being Black to me means shutting down likeability, and being true to my culture. Being Black is a blessing to me. Being Black means remembering how the struggles of life makes me stronger. Being Black means being bound to the history and culture that makes me Black. I love being Black. I would choose being a Black woman over again.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
BHM is a time of deep reflection for me. It’s a time I take out to know what my colour truly means, and who I truly am. It’s a time to remember who I am, and the people and history that made it so. It’s a time to think of new ways to make sure the Black culture never dies (it can never). It’s a time to share and celebrate Black cultures from every place. BHM is a time of deep reflection, remembrance, and celebration.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I would love them to know that the being Black is such a wonderful experience. It’s an everyday expression of freedom and beauty. I would love them to join us to celebrate this month, by learning what it means, and being involved. We have so many amazing plays, movies, songs, people that they can watch or listen to. I want them to experience the art of being Black. It’s a beautiful experience, and one they would never forget.
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
Ife Alaba
What does it mean to you to be Black?
I guess it’s a flex for me. Just the being and creativity that comes with it. It’s a privilege.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s a month of remembrance and celebration of blackness, and achievements done by black people and the space we occupy.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
We are here, we exist and we are here to stay, not just for a month but everyday and every hour.
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
Angelise States
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being Black to me means being able to embrace all sides of me, regardless of what someone else’s expectations are. There are so many stereotypes about being Black (ie how you should look/speak/act) and if you are anything different than those stereotypes, people seem to judge you; sometimes you’re not Black enough or sometimes you’re too Black. But there is no one way to be Black!
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a chance to celebrate not just past Black voices, but current ones too. I think we should spend this month appreciating our past while championing the Black leaders of today and ensuring they have a voice.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I think there is a lot to learn about Black people in N.L. In my experience, it’s always great to get to know someone else’s background – you’ll learn that you have a lot more in common with them than you think. I love being able to share any part of my background with my fellow Newfoundlanders.
Nicole Obiodiaka
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being black means I can be authentically myself in the different versions of me – especially with the freedom of changing my hairstyle to match whatever version of my self I feel like being that day – between the braids, wigs, natural hair, afros, slick backs – I feel free to express the many layers of me. Being Black, especially in Canada, means I get to experience and identify with the culture of my motherland & also carve my Black-Canadian identity.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
BHM as s curator means I have the opportunity to highlight the talent that exists within the Black community in N.L. For me personally, I’m reminded of Black history & how far we have come – but also how much more work there is ahead.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
My experiences with limited access to opportunities that catered to the unique barriers faced by the Black community ignited my passion to create an organization that gives Black business and artists access to spaces that have unintentionally excluded them due to high entry requirements & lack of representation.
Panashe Chichaya
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Excellence, proud and a cut above the rest.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It means that we can value how far we’ve come as Black people to not being allowed in certain spaces and denied opportunities. To reflect on how wrong that was, and take full advantage of the opportunities we now have.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
Passive aggressive statements do more damage than good.
Mayowa Chilota Olukunle
What does it mean to you to be Black?
It means to be inquire and to always stand out from the crowd. It doesn’t matter where we are, but we always show our excellence.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
BHM is a time where we come to celebrate those who ran so we could walk. A time to give us our flowers.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
We are one of a kind.
Helena Elueme
What does it mean to you to be Black?
I was raised in Nigeria where I was a girl, and when I came to Newfoundland for university, I became a Black girl – not because I had changed, but because the world around me saw me differently.
Being black means being unapologetically myself no matter where I am and no matter who is watching. It means having my curls form a cloud on my head. It means loving my dark skin, carrying my heritage with me in every step I take. It means telling stories about my life, my relationships, my culture and my ancestors, pushing back against the stereotypes that try to define us. It is strength, resilience, and love woven into every part of who I am.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black people throughout history and in the present. It is a time to honour the hard perseverance of our ancestors, who, despite facing colonization, enslavement, and systemic exploitation, have continued to shape the world with their labour, talent, and innovation.
It is also a call to affirm that we matter, we belong, and we have every right to take up space—in every industry, every country, and every conversation. Our history is not just one of struggle but of triumph, creativity, and undeniable impact.
For non-Black folks, Black History Month is an opportunity to educate themselves on the often-overlooked or uncomfortable truths of world history. It’s a time to reflect, learn, and take meaningful steps toward a more just and inclusive future.
Ultimately, Black History Month is about collective humanity. No land, no resources, no opportunities belong to just one group—this earth is for all of us. Instead of division, we should strive for understanding, equity, and coexistence. Because true progress happens when we uplift one another, rather than fight over what should be shared.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
There are layers to all Black people. Just like there are layers to all human beings.
We all have unique experiences, talents, and perspectives, and it’s important to recognize that rather than relying on outdated stereotypes. It’s 2025 – let’s move beyond assumptions and take the time to learn from real conversations and shared experiences.
My Blackness is a part of me, but it does not define my abilities or limit my potential. It is tied to my culture, my heritage, and my identity, but it has nothing to do with my skills, intelligence, or what I can achieve.
And as for Newfoundland and Labrador- this land does not, has never, and will never belong to white people only. Just as your British, Irish, and French ancestors arrived here and built lives, today’s immigrants are doing the same: working hard, contributing, and enriching our communities.
At the end of the day, we all belong, and we all have a story worth hearing! 🙂
Do you have any art, written works, or videos you’d like to share?
https://www.instagram.com/p/DE766bTOIFR
Chidinma Ozougwu
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Black to me means pride, bravery…it’s like a crown I’m proud of wearing. Black is beautiful, Black is creative, Black is ambitious , Black is blessed.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me makes me feel like we (mostly our ancestors) are being, seen, heard, celebrated and appreciated.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I would like them to know Africa is really big. We don’t know everyone in our city not to talk of state/ country or even continent.
Jamie Wiliam Mbogo
What does it mean to you to be Black?
Being black means being powerful. It represents resilience and strength despite adversity.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s a time to acknowledge, educate and embrace our history as Black people and use it as a guide to navigate through our society.
What would you like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador to know about being Black or about your experiences as a Black youth?
I’d like Newfoundlanders to understand how our history has embedded itself in societal structures and what that means for Black people in terms of opportunities and perceptions.