Black History Month 2026

IK supports 100s of newcomers and/or previous immigrants annually (with a large focus on young men from African countries) by helping them find community and integrate more easily into life in NL through the football (soccer) teams and leagues he has created and/or manages - 1949 FC, International Soccer Tournament of NL, and Sunday League - as well as being a role model and inspiration to the youth teams he coaches (Mount Pearl Soccer Association).

IK's leadership in the local community has truly helped football in NL to grow and diversify, while simultaneously creating safe spaces for Black men to find kinship and brotherhood through sport in this province. 

Wendy Ihama is a public policy professional and community leader whose work has made a meaningful impact on Black communities in Newfoundland and Labrador. As a Policy Analyst with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, she contributes to evidence-based policies that strengthen community development, cultural heritage, and inclusive public programs across the province. Her approach centers on stakeholder engagement, equity, and ensuring community voices inform provincial decision-making.
Beyond government, Wendy serves as Executive Director of Civic Roots Foundation, where she provides strategic leadership to advance civic engagement, equitable access to public services, and inclusive participation—priorities that directly support Black and other equity-deserving communities. Her work emphasizes grassroots advocacy, reconciliation-informed practices, and sustainable community empowerment. With experience spanning government, higher education, and nonprofit sectors, Wendy brings strong administrative leadership, policy expertise, and collaborative skills. Through her professional roles and ongoing volunteerism, she remains deeply committed to strengthening Black community representation, leadership development, and community-centered policymaking in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Through her leadership of Civic Roots Foundation, Wendy Ihama embodies “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations” by empowering Black communities through civic education, grassroots advocacy, and inclusive participation that connects the work of past nation builders to the visionaries shaping tomorrow.

Vicky Quao brings grace and wisdom to everything she does, ensuring that every voice heard and all individuals are represented. In the face of adversity at work, she remains grounded and ensures that all opinions are heard, while conversations remain respectful. She always plans ahead, thinking of possible adversities and adjusting accordingly, before the rest of the team has even considered them. She is the visionary which leads Canadian Federation of Students NL with kindness.

Vicky Quao is a changemaker, community builder, advocacy-driven, equity-focused, dedicated and committed member of our team, who constantly makes space for tomorrow’s leaders to flourish today

Tracey Clements is a descendant of the historic Black communities of Pinewoods and Gibson Woods and a community leader in Kentville, Nova Scotia. Alongside Neighbourhood Outreach Coordinator Roxy, she co-initiated the Diversity and Belonging Task Team, which was later formally adopted by Kentville Town Council as a standing committee. Her work bridges governance, education, and heritage preservation. Tracey served for over a decade in education as an African Nova Scotian Student Support Worker, supporting youth and families through culturally grounded programming. She is the creator of the mini-documentary Pinewoods: A Community Lost, now featured in a traveling heritage kiosk displayed in municipal and community spaces. As founder of Elevate Cultural Enrichment Hub, she develops projects that preserve local Black history while creating educational pathways for youth, families, and the broader community.

Through initiating municipal diversity work and creating Pinewoods: A Community Lost, Tracey transforms ancestral history into living education that connects the legacy of Black nation builders to the confidence and vision of future generations.

Etso, has an impeccable character when it comes to the subject matter of leadership. She recently won recognition as a Regional Legend and she was the only black woman that was recognised as a top performer in TD Canadian Personal Banking in the Atlantic region.

Etso has shown that hard work, creating, resilience and community involvement pays and has given the inspiration that anything is possible if only you believe and work hard at it.

Jumoke (Jumi) Odumosu is a mental health practitioner, advocate, and community leader whose work is advancing culturally responsive care and community well-being for Black and immigrant communities in Newfoundland and Labrador. As a Counselling Psychology intern with Repose Wellness Collective, Jumi provides client support under clinical supervision, with a strong focus on trauma-informed and culturally grounded approaches to mental health. In addition to her clinical work, Jumi serves as Vice President of the Multicultural Women’s Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador, where she contributes to initiatives that empower immigrant and newcomer women and foster connection, belonging, and leadership development. Through both her professional practice and volunteer leadership, Jumi is helping to reduce barriers to mental health support while strengthening community resilience. Her work reflects a deep commitment to care, advocacy, and the long-term well-being of Black communities across the province.

Jumoke Odumosu embodies Black brilliance across generations by building on the legacy of community care while shaping a future where culturally responsive mental health support empowers Black communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

As a dedicated leader within the Nigerian community in Newfoundland and Labrador, I have made a significant impact through my unwavering commitment to cultural integration and support. By volunteering with the Igbo community, I fostered connections that celebrate our heritage while promoting understanding among diverse groups. My experience in an interracial marriage has enriched my perspective, allowing me to advocate for inclusivity and representation.
Through my blog, I share insights into our daily lives as an interracial couple, highlighting the beauty of blending cultures and the challenges we overcome. This platform not only empowers others in similar situations but also educates the broader community about the dynamics of interracial relationships. My journey exemplifies resilience and the importance of embracing diversity, contributing to a richer, more inclusive society in Newfoundland and Labrador. Recognizing my efforts during Black History Month honours the strength and vibrancy of our collective narrative.

As a past devoted leader within the Nigerian community in Newfoundland and Labrador, a passionate advocate for cultural integration and understanding through my interracial marriage, and a voice for our shared experiences as a couple on our blog, I embody the essence of "Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries" by bridging cultural divides and inspiring future generations through love and community. 

Jessica Chukwu isn't your typical student. It's a challenge to simply attend university and be successful – it's harder when you move to do so, even more when you leave your country, culture and everything behind. Jessica didn't just come to focus on her studies – she has fully immersed herself in the local community and is doing more than her share, with exquisite quiet confidence, to change the world. While successfully completing an undergrad in Computer Science, Jessica is also President of the National Society of Black Engineers at MUN, Social Media Manager of the MUN Medtech Society, and building a business as a freelance photographer. She also puts her hand up to support ideas, take on new opportunities, and spread innovation through student challenges, hackathons, and volunteer opportunities. She is involved in her church community, and is an inspiring example of what leadership can look like for the next generation. NL is so lucky to have her here, let's just hope it's for a long time!

Jessica is Honouring Black Brilliance by exemplifying what the next generation of leadership looks like, while inspiring the community around her. 

Afia is a true polymath. Don't reduce her skills to a box, or put boundaries on what she can (and will) accomplish. From MUN Student, Advocate, Social Media Influencer, Student Ambassador Lead, Photographer and Videographer, Baker, Entrepreneur, Mentor, Continuous Learner and Doer, Afia breaks all perceptions of what is possible as a graduate student and young adult. She leads with kindness, curiousity, collaboration, and is always so generous with her compliments and consideration for those around her. She landed in NL by way of post-secondary studies, but has quickly embedded herself into the community and makes strategic steps to build up those around her as she's navigating her own leadership journey. Her leadership style is confident yet humbled, whose work speaks for itself – the exact kind of leadership we need for the future.

Afia is Honouring Black Brilliance by breaking down boundaries, and providing her own path to considerate, confident, well-rounded leadership. 

As the Community Development Manager of a multiculturally diverse municipality like Happy Valley-Goose Bay, my work is vital for fostering mutually beneficial relationships with organizations within and outside the Town. My daily work routine involves identifying key needs of the community by supporting opportunities for sustainable transformation in the community, securing resources, and collaborating with key stakeholders to implement projects that improve overall community well-being. One of the programs I organized in 2025 was "The Bridges to Belonging" where international health workers from other parts of the world, like Ghana, Nigeria, Pakistan, and India, shared their experiences moving to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, navigating cultural differences, braving the Labrador weather, dealing with different forms of discrimination, and what newcomers can learn from their experiences.

I bring to my role my international professional experience in project management, communication from Nigeria, Sweden and an exceptional background in community development and social enterprise from Western and Eastern Newfoundland to Labrador

I am a co-founder of Igbo Cultural Association of Newfoundland and Labrador. A Current Executive member of the Igbo Cultural Association of NL. A chef. Founder/Owner of MamaKing's Kitchen in the city of St. John's. Consultant with health and wealth company (Saladmaster), where l educate individuals about healthy eating, cooking, and living.

Faith Chidinma Nwanguma is a leader of positive impacts in the black community, and a philanthropist. 

Dorcas Akrong is the founder and lead operator of G&M Cuisines, the first-ever Ghanaian restaurant in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Based in St. John’s, G&M Cuisines was launched to preserve and share authentic Ghanaian cuisine while filling a significant cultural gap in the local food landscape.
Operating as a hybrid cloud kitchen and mobile food service, G&M Cuisines offers traditional West African dishes through pickup and delivery platforms, making culturally rooted meals accessible to a diverse customer base. Dorcas leads all aspects of the business, including menu development, operations, branding, compliance, and customer engagement—demonstrating hands-on entrepreneurial leadership.
Beyond food service, Dorcas uses her restaurant as a platform for cultural representation, community connection, and visibility for Black women in food entrepreneurship. Through innovation, resilience, and intentional growth, she has positioned G&M Cuisines as both a successful business and a cultural landmark within the province.

Dorcas Akrong represents “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations” by preserving Ghanaian culinary heritage while boldly building a first-of-its-kind business in Newfoundland and Labrador, inspiring future generations through cultural pride, entrepreneurship, and Black women’s leadership.

Johnny Alubu Selemani is a 3rd year Human Resource Management Student at the College of the North Atlantic (CNA) in Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and holds a Master’s degree in Public Management and Governance from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. A support to newcomer students and community members,  he is a project coordinator with Sharing Our Cultures and serves as a facilitator for the Anti-Racism Literacy (ARC-NL) project. An advocate of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and a leader, Johnny is the 2025-2026 National Chairperson for the Black Students’ Caucus of the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS/FCEE) and was National International Student’s representative and Provincial International student representative for the CFS (2024-2025). Johnny’s awards include: College of the North Atlantic’s (CNA) Provincial Business Case Competition (2024); Certificate of Black Excellence for community advocacy, Black History Month and student leadership from the Canadian Federation of Students of Newfoundland and Labrador (CFSNL) (2025); RBC Diversity Leadership Award - IDEAS Summit (2025).

Johnny’s dedication and integrity are reflected in his actions by uplifting the community and through a continuous pursuit of excellence in existing minority-focused initiatives.

At just 17 years old, Chinedu Stephen Ehigie exemplifies Black excellence through leadership, service, and advocacy. As MUNSU Black Students’ Representative, he drives initiatives celebrating Black history and supporting Black-owned businesses. He serves on the Memorial University Board of Senate and was recently nominated to the Admissions Committee, shaping institutional decisions. In nursing, he is class representative for MUNFON CO29 and co-founder of BIPOC Nurses and Student Nurses NL, creating inclusive programming, networking, and mentorship opportunities. He is a student-athlete on the Memorial University Sea-Hawks track team, former Vice President of Events and Planning at the International Students Resource Centre, and currently serves in the Canadian Armed Forces. Across all roles, Stephen demonstrates vision, commitment, and impact. He is empowering peers and advancing equity in every space he serves.

Chinedu Stephen Ehigie honors Black brilliance by showing up, lifting others, and using his voice to make a difference for the next generation.

Didan Ashanta Wedderburn is a respected community advocate and cultural leader in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, known for her dedication to uplifting and empowering Black communities. Through her work, Didan has been a strong voice for inclusion, representation, and cultural education, helping to create spaces where Black history and lived experiences are recognized and celebrated. She has contributed significantly to community-building initiatives, supporting newcomers, youth, and families while promoting awareness of Black culture and heritage within the province. Didan’s commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy has made a meaningful impact on the social and cultural fabric of St. John’s. Her efforts continue to inspire connection, understanding, and positive change.

Didan Ashanta Wedderburn represents Black brilliance in action, bridging cultural heritage and future vision through service and leadership in St. John’s.

Olamide Shodipo, President of the Nigerian Canadian Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (NCANL), has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic approach, and strong commitments to community development throughout 2025. Under his stewardship, the association has experienced measurable growth in terms of community outreach and enhanced good settlement soft-landing programs for newcomers within Newfoundland and Labrador. His administration has prioritized transparency, inclusiveness, and operational excellence, resulting in improved newcomer support systems and a more coordinated approach to community building. Through decisive leadership and a people-centered vision, NCANL has expanded its impact beyond internal association affairs to contribute meaningfully to the social and economic integration of newcomers into the province. The president’s achievements in 2025 reflect not only administrative competence but also a deep understanding of service, collaboration, and sustainable growth. His leadership continues to position NCANL as a respected community institution and a valuable contributor to the broader development of Newfoundland and Labrador.

He has honoured Black brilliance across generations by expanding NCANL’s reach, strengthening trust, bringing back those that have lost confidence in the association, and driving sustained membership growth by 100% that connects nation builders to tomorrow’s visionaries.

Amarachukwu (Amara) is a practicing labour/ delivery registered nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN). She is currently completing a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology at MUN. Originally from Edo State, Nigeria, Amara moved to Newfoundland at the age of 15 to start her undergraduate degree at MUN. Amara is a co-founder of BIPOC Nurses and Student Nurses NL, a non-for profit centred around creating a community for and empowering Black, Indigenous, People of color that are nurses and student nurses in Newfoundland. Amara also currently sits on the leadership team for the Racialized Graduate Students Collective (RGSC) as a member of the vision group. RGSC is a student-led initiative and community dedicated to supporting and removing barriers for racialized graduate students within the Faculty of Education at Memorial University.

Amara speaks as a guest speaker for community organizations like Association of New Canadians, sharing her experiences with youth on community involvement and navigating the healthcare system as an immigrant and woman of colour in a professional role. Amara was also one of the organizers of the first BIPOC centred information session for aspiring nursing students in Newfoundland. 

Sandra is a community leader and sports advocate who founded Handball Newfoundland to create access, representation, and opportunity through sport. Through her leadership, she has helped introduce and grow handball in Newfoundland and Labrador, using it as a tool for youth engagement, mentorship, and community building. Sandra’s work goes beyond athletics – she is intentional about creating inclusive spaces where Black communities and other underrepresented groups can feel seen, supported, and empowered. By fostering teamwork, discipline, and confidence, she has positively influenced young people and families across the province. Sandra’s commitment to community development and cultural visibility continues to strengthen social connections and inspire participation, leadership, and pride within Black communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Sandra represents this theme by building lasting community institutions through sport, honoring the legacy of Black leadership while empowering the next generation of visionaries in Newfoundland and Labrador.