The contributions of Chatham-Kent’s Black community will have a bigger stage next February as the Black Excellence Awards and Gala expands to a month-long celebration.
The Black Excellence Committee, in collaboration with Buxton’s Next Generation (BNG) and the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, unveiled plans for a series of celebrations designed to highlight culture, music, dance, youth, and community accomplishments.
Doug Robbins (who co-chairs the events with Shannon Prince and Michelle Robbins) said the month is building on the success of last year’s inaugural Black Excellence Awards (BEA) and Gala to celebrate “our community and the community that supports us.”
With the theme of “Elevate & Celebrate,” the month begins with a Black Youth Expo on Feb. 1 during which two outstanding Black Excellence Youth Award recipients will be announced.
On Feb. 15, St. Andrews Church will host a candlelit concert highlighting the influence of Black artists.
A Soul Food Dinner and Dance will be held on Feb. 22 at the W.I.S.H. Centre.
The month-long celebration concludes March 1 with the Black Excellence Awards & Gala and VIP Reception. Awards will be presented in the categories of outstanding youth, male and female, agriculturist, entrepreneur and citizen, and trailblazer of the year.
Nominations will be open from Dec. 8 to Jan. 18.
“The Black Excellence Awards and Gala serve as an important platform to celebrate the past and future of Black culture in our community,” said Michelle Robbins, curator of the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum and BEA co-chair. “This event is a testament to our resilience and a chance to honour those building a brighter future.”
Doug Robbins said he is very pleased with the support provided by scores of program sponsors.
Suzanne Shea of Enbridge said her firm believes that the theme of diversity, equity, and inclusion “fuels our collective success” and is proud to sponsor events that uphold such values.
Nav Kaur of Mainstreet Credit Union said supporting entrepreneurs and innovators throughout the community is key to her firm’s mission.
Robbins said the Black Excellence Awards are enhanced through association with traditional Black History Month activities.
“We’re able to show that we continue to excel thanks in no small part to those who came before us and helped provide us with the opportunities we have today.”
