The Black Excellence Awards and Gala was such a hit Feb. 10 that organizers anticipate making it an annual event.
More than 225 people gathered at Retro Suites to celebrate the rich Black heritage that is such a part of Chatham-Kent, and to fete local citizens and businesses for their contributions.
Michelle Robbins, curator of the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum, and one of the organizers of the Feb. 10 event, said the evening was “fantastic.
“We had a great turnout. It was sold out. Seeing everyone dressed up and celebrating together was amazing,” she said. “It was great to see the support of the community and beyond.”
Shannon Prince, who also co-chaired the event, appreciated the community support as well.
“It’s great to see our community and the greater community celebrated. We have never assembled such a prestigious group of community leaders,” she said.
Mike “Bear” Rhan was named Citizen of the year, while Tammy Lucas took female of the year honours, and Blake Handsor earned male of the year accolades. Yardie Vibes captured Black-owned business of the year honours. Kiaya Farms was named agriculturalist of the year, and Camryn Dudley received the youth of the year award.
Artis Lane was named trailblazer.
“This person is selected on their positive impact and accomplishments to our community and culture,” Robbins said of Lane.
She added that choosing the winners in each category was no easy task.
“The people who were nominated definitely earned every nomination,” she said. “The incredible people we have within our community is just amazing.”
Doug Robbins, also co-chair of the awards, agreed.
“They say it’s an honour just to be nominated and it truly is. Everyone that stood for nomination has had a profound effect on our community and our culture, and for that they should all be applauded,” he said.
Michelle Robbins said it was a great night for the Black community of Chatham-Kent.
“It was just an amazing night to see so many people support the excellence in our community. Our ancestors would have been extremely proud of the event,” she said.
Planning is already underway for next year’s event. Michelle Robbins, who thanked the support of the sponsors this year, said many expressed an immediate desire to be involved again in 2025.
