Read Mayor Vrbanovic's Statement on Black History Month 2024 HERE
What The Colours In The Pan-African Flag Mean
Black - Represents Black people's skin colour, their resilience and strength of their community.
Red - Symbolizes the blood shed by innocent Black lives through slavery and oppression.
Yellow - Stands for optimism, justice and equality for everyone.
Green - Symbolizes Africa's rich greenery and other natural resources.
The Theme of Black History Month 2024 Is:
Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; A Future to Build
Black - Represents Black people's skin colour, their resilience and strength of their community.
Red - Symbolizes the blood shed by innocent Black lives through slavery and oppression.
Yellow - Stands for optimism, justice and equality for everyone.
Green - Symbolizes Africa's rich greenery and other natural resources.
The Theme of Black History Month 2024 Is:
Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; A Future to Build
The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region promote the social, cultural & economic interests of, & advocate for, the Caribbean community. See the great things they do. Click The Image Below For Their Website
For CCAWR Black History Month Events Click HERE
BRING ON THE SUNSHINE - SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18 - KITCHENER CITY HALL
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This signature Black History Month event for the whole family celebrates African heritage, culture, and contributions. It's an immersive cultural experience that engages the wider Waterloo region through music, food, art, dance, workshops, and more. It showcases the rich diversity of over 50 African countries. By bringing people together, Bring On The Sunshine aims to create a sense of unity, understanding, and shared identity, contributing to the overarching goal of connectedness within the community.
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Click Image Below For Your Free Tickets
The Freedom Marching Project
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The Freedom Marching Project uses the creative power of Art, Education & Activism to inspire individuals to join the march to fight against racism. It was created in response to the thousands of people who found the courage to use their voice to take action in 2020 by marching through streets all over the world shouting, “Black Lives Matter!” Find our more about them and their projects like LEGACY and sign up for their newsletter HERE
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The Legacy 2024 concert is at the Hamilton Family Theatre in Cambridge. It has an amazing lineup and will be hosted by Master T who still does amazing work promoting and supporting Black artists and Kween. You can preorder great food and if you need it, shuttle service is available from Fairview Park Mall. Last year's show sold out, so get your tickets quickly. To get all the details, buy tickets, order food, and reserve a shuttle bus seat, click HERE THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT!
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TRACES 2024 - AYO - FEBRUARY 10
The U of W African Student Association Presents Traces 2024 - AYO February 10 at Humanities Theatre.
This event is a platform for talented individuals to express their African heritage through various artistic mediums, including talent performances, captivating plays, poetry, singing, dancing, and modelling. It's meant to inspire, entertain, and enlighten the audience about the richness and diversity of African culture. This year’s theme is “Ayo”, they hope you find “Joy” in this showcase. For tickets, click HERE |
Temple Of Love - The Errol Starr Story
Screening and Q & A
Thursday February 29 - 6pm - Princess Twin Cinemas
Get Tickets HERE
Screening and Q & A
Thursday February 29 - 6pm - Princess Twin Cinemas
Get Tickets HERE
Errol Starr grew up in Kitchener and was part of our local music scene. He was the lead singer of the rock band Harbinger. In 1987 he released his Temple of Love album that had 4 hit singles; The Key, Angel, Holding Out For You and For The Love of Money. All received strong radio airplay across Canada, especially at CHYM, his hometown radio station.
His videos were played at MuchMusic and fellow Kitchener resident, MuchMusic VJ Master T did a feature on Errol. The Key and For the Love of Money were both nominated for Juno Awards. Errol was named Best Male Artist at the Black Music Association of Canada awards in 1987.
His nephew Aaron Francis created an art feature called the Apotheosis Of Errol Starr which was displayed at Conestoga Mall. It was inspired by Aaron's Vintage Black Canada Project. The images from that can be seen below.
This movie tells the story of Errol's rise to fame and his sudden departure from the spotlight. It shows the challenges Black artists face in Canada and celebrates Errol as a trailblazer and an artist ahead of his time.
Following the screening there will be a discussion and Q&A with director Kyle Sawyer, producer Aaron Francis and Errol Starr Francis.
Tickets HERE
His videos were played at MuchMusic and fellow Kitchener resident, MuchMusic VJ Master T did a feature on Errol. The Key and For the Love of Money were both nominated for Juno Awards. Errol was named Best Male Artist at the Black Music Association of Canada awards in 1987.
His nephew Aaron Francis created an art feature called the Apotheosis Of Errol Starr which was displayed at Conestoga Mall. It was inspired by Aaron's Vintage Black Canada Project. The images from that can be seen below.
This movie tells the story of Errol's rise to fame and his sudden departure from the spotlight. It shows the challenges Black artists face in Canada and celebrates Errol as a trailblazer and an artist ahead of his time.
Following the screening there will be a discussion and Q&A with director Kyle Sawyer, producer Aaron Francis and Errol Starr Francis.
Tickets HERE
Community Events in Kitchener for Black History Month & Anti Racism Resources HERE
Black History Month Events at The Kitchener Public Library HERE
Wilfrid Laurier University Black History Month Events & Celebrations HERE
University Of Waterloo Black History Month Events & Celebrations HERE
Government Of Canada Black History Month HERE
The Ontario Black History Society HERE
Black History Month Events at The Kitchener Public Library HERE
Wilfrid Laurier University Black History Month Events & Celebrations HERE
University Of Waterloo Black History Month Events & Celebrations HERE
Government Of Canada Black History Month HERE
The Ontario Black History Society HERE
A list of 450 Black Owned Canadian, American and International Companies HERE
The City Of Kitchener's RISE Fund (Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity) provides support for community-led organizations, programs, initiatives or events meant to decrease inequities and increase opportunities and well-being for Black, Indigenous and racialized communities in Kitchener. Learn about the RISE Fund HERE
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Exciting News!
At the KW Titans Black History Month Game on February 1 The Caribana Arts Group and the City Of Kitchener announced a partnership to bring Caribana IGNITE to Kitchener this August 23rd and 24th! The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region is part of the committee to make this an epic event.
IGNITE will bring colourful street theatre & a street party showcasing the hottest up-and-coming carnival designers, and the diversity and vibrancy of the Caribbean, all in one celebration. Read more HERE |
During Black History Month I'm featuring Black residents from Kitchener, or who represented Kitchener and make us all proud with their achievements. 2024 features appear below after they're posted on my social media.
Chef Lenore Johnson is the founder and owner of LenJo Bakes at 132 Ahrens St W, Kitchener and The Shed Café at 1406 King Street North, St. Jacobs. You’ve probably seen Lenore as one of the cast member chefs on The Food Network’s Wall Of Bakers TV Show.
LenJo’s main business is designing and crafting bespoke cakes for weddings, birthdays and any celebration. Lenore also creates delicious treats including cupcakes, brownies, cookies, French macarons, hand pies, tarts, grab and go cakes, cinnamon rolls and more. They also serve focaccia pizza for lunch on Thursdays and breakfast pies on Saturdays until they’re sold out. They also create customized corporate treats.
Lenore realized she had a gift and passion for baking while she was studying for her Mathemetics/Business degree at the University Of Waterloo. After doing a few co-op terms she realized the corporate corporate world didn’t bring her the joy baking did. Lenore applied to and was accepted to the baking and pastry arts program at George Brown College. While doing that program she also did 4 economics classes at Toronto Metropolitan University to complete her degree at UW.
Her next move was to pastry school in Yssingeaux, France and then at a restaurant in Monistrol-sur-Loire. In France Lenore said she “learned the value of hard work, the difficulty of being the new person in the kitchen, and how to handle myself in racist and misogynistic environment.”
She then moved to England and worked at high-profile, Michelin-starred restaurants. From there Lenore moved to Waiheke Island, New Zealand to be pastry chef at Goldie Estate Winery. While there, she started a LenJo Bakes pop-up cake studio. Through all these experiences Lenore says she “learned more about the value of food, the value of local producers, the value of community, the value of hard work, the value of great customer service, and the desire for customers to have ease in a process.”
2 years later she came back to Ontario to teach at Conestoga College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and started the search for a permanent LenJo Bakes location and that led to her first location on Ahrens St. In 2021, she a pop up in St. Jacobs, but made it a permanent location in May of 2023.
Treat your self to a visit at one of her locations and visit her LenJo Bakes website to learn more about Lenore Johnson and LenJo Bakes.
LenJo’s main business is designing and crafting bespoke cakes for weddings, birthdays and any celebration. Lenore also creates delicious treats including cupcakes, brownies, cookies, French macarons, hand pies, tarts, grab and go cakes, cinnamon rolls and more. They also serve focaccia pizza for lunch on Thursdays and breakfast pies on Saturdays until they’re sold out. They also create customized corporate treats.
Lenore realized she had a gift and passion for baking while she was studying for her Mathemetics/Business degree at the University Of Waterloo. After doing a few co-op terms she realized the corporate corporate world didn’t bring her the joy baking did. Lenore applied to and was accepted to the baking and pastry arts program at George Brown College. While doing that program she also did 4 economics classes at Toronto Metropolitan University to complete her degree at UW.
Her next move was to pastry school in Yssingeaux, France and then at a restaurant in Monistrol-sur-Loire. In France Lenore said she “learned the value of hard work, the difficulty of being the new person in the kitchen, and how to handle myself in racist and misogynistic environment.”
She then moved to England and worked at high-profile, Michelin-starred restaurants. From there Lenore moved to Waiheke Island, New Zealand to be pastry chef at Goldie Estate Winery. While there, she started a LenJo Bakes pop-up cake studio. Through all these experiences Lenore says she “learned more about the value of food, the value of local producers, the value of community, the value of hard work, the value of great customer service, and the desire for customers to have ease in a process.”
2 years later she came back to Ontario to teach at Conestoga College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and started the search for a permanent LenJo Bakes location and that led to her first location on Ahrens St. In 2021, she a pop up in St. Jacobs, but made it a permanent location in May of 2023.
Treat your self to a visit at one of her locations and visit her LenJo Bakes website to learn more about Lenore Johnson and LenJo Bakes.
Juwan Miller was born and raised in Kitchener. He was a multi-sport athlete who also played Triple A Baseball and Rep Hockey. After he saw the basketball movie Like Mike, he quit all other sports to focus on basketball.
He played with the KW Vipers, Waterloo Wolverines and Waterloo Wildhawks. At Queensmount Sr. Public School he was captain of the team and they won the Waterloo Region District School Board Championship. At Forest Heights Collegiate he was co-captain and MVP of the junior team and named a league first team all-star. In his last 2 years of High School Juwan went to Huron Heights and was their starting point guard (SPG)
After high school Juwan attended the prestigious Athlete Institute in Orangeville from 2012-2014 and was their SPG. While there, in 2011, he was the SPG for the championship winning Ontario Provincial Basketball Team, In 2012 Juwan was part of the CIA Bounce Rep Team and the Nike EYBL Program from 2012-2014
In 2014 Juwan accepted a scholarship from NCAA Division 2 Missouri University of Science and Technology. Where he became their SPG and was named to the Great Lakes Valley Conference all-defensive team. He is their all time assists leader and second in all time steals. In 2019 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems Technology degree.
Juwan signed with the KW Titans of the Basketball Super League in 2020. He wears number 8 to honour his grandmother. The Titans said this about him in a social media post. “Juwan is the heart and soul of the KW Titans! He brings his A-game to every practice and every game.” To learn more about the KW Titans and purchase tickets, visit their website HERE
He played with the KW Vipers, Waterloo Wolverines and Waterloo Wildhawks. At Queensmount Sr. Public School he was captain of the team and they won the Waterloo Region District School Board Championship. At Forest Heights Collegiate he was co-captain and MVP of the junior team and named a league first team all-star. In his last 2 years of High School Juwan went to Huron Heights and was their starting point guard (SPG)
After high school Juwan attended the prestigious Athlete Institute in Orangeville from 2012-2014 and was their SPG. While there, in 2011, he was the SPG for the championship winning Ontario Provincial Basketball Team, In 2012 Juwan was part of the CIA Bounce Rep Team and the Nike EYBL Program from 2012-2014
In 2014 Juwan accepted a scholarship from NCAA Division 2 Missouri University of Science and Technology. Where he became their SPG and was named to the Great Lakes Valley Conference all-defensive team. He is their all time assists leader and second in all time steals. In 2019 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems Technology degree.
Juwan signed with the KW Titans of the Basketball Super League in 2020. He wears number 8 to honour his grandmother. The Titans said this about him in a social media post. “Juwan is the heart and soul of the KW Titans! He brings his A-game to every practice and every game.” To learn more about the KW Titans and purchase tickets, visit their website HERE
Rufus John moved to Kitchener when he was 10. Music was a big passion and part of his life starting when he was young. He's also a caring and gifted youth worker and mentor who gives back and lifts others up to new levels through his musically inspired youth mentorship program.
In the summer of 2020 the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery showed how racism's grip was so very strong and so very wrong. Millions of Canadians and Americans took to the streets in protest. Rufus created The Freedom Marching Project The Freedom Marching Project uses the creative power of Art, Education & Activism to inspire individuals to #JoinTheMarch to fight against racism. Rufus wrote Freedom Marching and gathered a large group of Black Artists together as United Artists 4 Change to record it. The Part 1 and 2 videos can been seen HERE
Rufus also created Legacy an amazing showcase of Black excellence and culture through music, poetry, fashion, dance, acting, art and food. This year's theme is What Was, What Is, What Will Be. It's happening at the Hamilton Family Theatre in Cambridge on Saturday February 24. Hosted by Iconic Much Music VJ Master T, it includes performances by Errol Starr, Ayesha Ahad & David "Titus" Smith. Tickets available HERE
Rufus' musical projects include The Reason, Growing Pains, Gone But Not Forgotten and The Freedom Marching Project. You can listen on Spotify and Apple Music.
In the summer of 2020 the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery showed how racism's grip was so very strong and so very wrong. Millions of Canadians and Americans took to the streets in protest. Rufus created The Freedom Marching Project The Freedom Marching Project uses the creative power of Art, Education & Activism to inspire individuals to #JoinTheMarch to fight against racism. Rufus wrote Freedom Marching and gathered a large group of Black Artists together as United Artists 4 Change to record it. The Part 1 and 2 videos can been seen HERE
Rufus also created Legacy an amazing showcase of Black excellence and culture through music, poetry, fashion, dance, acting, art and food. This year's theme is What Was, What Is, What Will Be. It's happening at the Hamilton Family Theatre in Cambridge on Saturday February 24. Hosted by Iconic Much Music VJ Master T, it includes performances by Errol Starr, Ayesha Ahad & David "Titus" Smith. Tickets available HERE
Rufus' musical projects include The Reason, Growing Pains, Gone But Not Forgotten and The Freedom Marching Project. You can listen on Spotify and Apple Music.
Tuzee is a Kitchener based R&B, Gospel and Soul singer and songwriter. She's one of the most played artists on Christian radio. At the 2023 Gospel Music Association of Canada's Covenant Awards held in Kitchener Tuzee was named the Female Artist of the Year. She was also nominated for 3 other awards; Pop Song of the Year for Change Is On The Way, Album of the Year for Alive and as Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Her song Change Is On The Way reached number one on the Canadian Gospel Music Chart. Tuzee is also nominated for this year's Juno Awards for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year for Alive.
Tuzee was born and raised in Liberia, West Africa, and is now a Canadian who lives in Kitchener. At a young age her love of music grew as she sang with her family, churches and in local bands. She feels music is a great place to go when life gets challenging. Her philosophy is "Sing Through It" and says "Music is a stream that never runs dry, it flows deep within the soul and quenches the thirst for a lifetime.”
Tuzee is also a nurse and her song Shine was used for Grand River Hospital's video to thank the community for their support during the Pandemic. You can watch it HERE
She also does a podcast called Tuzee Tuesdays. Learn more about Tuzee, and her music and find her podcast through her website 2-Zee.com
Tuzee was born and raised in Liberia, West Africa, and is now a Canadian who lives in Kitchener. At a young age her love of music grew as she sang with her family, churches and in local bands. She feels music is a great place to go when life gets challenging. Her philosophy is "Sing Through It" and says "Music is a stream that never runs dry, it flows deep within the soul and quenches the thirst for a lifetime.”
Tuzee is also a nurse and her song Shine was used for Grand River Hospital's video to thank the community for their support during the Pandemic. You can watch it HERE
She also does a podcast called Tuzee Tuesdays. Learn more about Tuzee, and her music and find her podcast through her website 2-Zee.com
Ayo Owodunni is Kitchener's first Black member of City Council. He was elected as Kitchener's Ward 5 Councillor in the 2022 Election over 4 other candidates.
Ayo Immigrated to Kitchener from Lagos Nigeria in 2016. He's earned his Master Business Entrepreneurship and Technology Degree from the University of Waterloo. He also earned his certificate in Adult Education from George Brown College.
He's passionate about helping businesses and organizations hire and help immigrants thrive within them and reap the benefits of adding immigrants to their workplace. He's written a best selling book The Immigrant View - The Qualities Of An Inclusive Leader. Ayo also created and co-hosts the Immigrant View Podcast.
Ayo is also a part time professor at Conestoga College and is a sought after speaker at business conferences in Canada, the USA and internationally.
Ayo is friendly guy who works collaboratively with his fellow Councillors and city staff to resolve issues for his constituents and make good things happen in Kitchener. He's also a great husband and father to 2 children. He loves trying a large variety of hot sauces and can really handle the heat. I'm proud to call him a friend.
Ayo Immigrated to Kitchener from Lagos Nigeria in 2016. He's earned his Master Business Entrepreneurship and Technology Degree from the University of Waterloo. He also earned his certificate in Adult Education from George Brown College.
He's passionate about helping businesses and organizations hire and help immigrants thrive within them and reap the benefits of adding immigrants to their workplace. He's written a best selling book The Immigrant View - The Qualities Of An Inclusive Leader. Ayo also created and co-hosts the Immigrant View Podcast.
Ayo is also a part time professor at Conestoga College and is a sought after speaker at business conferences in Canada, the USA and internationally.
Ayo is friendly guy who works collaboratively with his fellow Councillors and city staff to resolve issues for his constituents and make good things happen in Kitchener. He's also a great husband and father to 2 children. He loves trying a large variety of hot sauces and can really handle the heat. I'm proud to call him a friend.
Aaron T. Francis - Vintage Black Canada
Aaron T. Francis
I've had the pleasure of serving on the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee with Aaron Francis.
Aaron is a doctoral student at the Balsillie School of International Affairs, a multidisciplinary artist, and a curator.
He created and curated an exhibit called Vintage Black Canada. Using vintage photographs of his family, Aaron's exhibit counters the way Black families are depicted in the media. It shows everyday family moments and celebrations.
You'll see pictures of his uncle Erroll Starr "Francis" a Kitchener musician & Juno Winner with chart hits
The Key, Angel & Holding Out For You
You can learn about the exhibit HERE
You can view the Instagram Account HERE
See more of Aaron's work HERE
Aaron is a doctoral student at the Balsillie School of International Affairs, a multidisciplinary artist, and a curator.
He created and curated an exhibit called Vintage Black Canada. Using vintage photographs of his family, Aaron's exhibit counters the way Black families are depicted in the media. It shows everyday family moments and celebrations.
You'll see pictures of his uncle Erroll Starr "Francis" a Kitchener musician & Juno Winner with chart hits
The Key, Angel & Holding Out For You
You can learn about the exhibit HERE
You can view the Instagram Account HERE
See more of Aaron's work HERE
The Apotheosis Of Erroll Starr Exhibit, a collaboration with Aaron and Shazia Ranmal was on display at Conestoga Mall I took some images when it was there and shared them below. Details are HERE
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The Apotheosis of Erroll Starr - Aaron T. Francis and Shazia Ranma. Presented by CAFKA
The Apotheosis of Erroll Starr is a collaboration between Aaron Francis of Vintage Black Canada ™ and Johannesburg-born, Montreal-based Shazia Ranmal, commissioned by Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener + Area (CAFKA).
Defined in part as the "culmination or climax" of a process or state of being, apotheosis in this context alludes to decades of reverence afforded to Erroll not solely from fans of his award-winning career as a Canadian musician, but from the perspective of his nephew, Aaron.
Based on archival family and press photography, this work seeks to interpret Erroll's ascent from first-generation-Canadian boyhood to bonafide rock-God, and juxtapose said narrative against Shazia's collage style. From right to left we see Erroll as a young boy flanked by his father and brothers and then later his Mother and Aunt as he himself looks away clutching a balloon.
By the time Erroll's avatar has ascended the mountains to the far left, he's clearly marked his own path, replete with a sports car and sunglasses, all while an omnipresent version of himself towers over the landscape, pointing to the past and reminding Erroll of his humble beginnings. This afro-futurist intergalactic collage illustrates the relationship one has with their former self while reflecting on Erroll's personal journey.
The Apotheosis of Erroll Starr is a collaboration between Aaron Francis of Vintage Black Canada ™ and Johannesburg-born, Montreal-based Shazia Ranmal, commissioned by Contemporary Art Forum Kitchener + Area (CAFKA).
Defined in part as the "culmination or climax" of a process or state of being, apotheosis in this context alludes to decades of reverence afforded to Erroll not solely from fans of his award-winning career as a Canadian musician, but from the perspective of his nephew, Aaron.
Based on archival family and press photography, this work seeks to interpret Erroll's ascent from first-generation-Canadian boyhood to bonafide rock-God, and juxtapose said narrative against Shazia's collage style. From right to left we see Erroll as a young boy flanked by his father and brothers and then later his Mother and Aunt as he himself looks away clutching a balloon.
By the time Erroll's avatar has ascended the mountains to the far left, he's clearly marked his own path, replete with a sports car and sunglasses, all while an omnipresent version of himself towers over the landscape, pointing to the past and reminding Erroll of his humble beginnings. This afro-futurist intergalactic collage illustrates the relationship one has with their former self while reflecting on Erroll's personal journey.
During Black History Month 2023, I featured black residents from Kitchener, or who represented Kitchener and make us all proud with their achievements on my social media accounts
During Black History Month, I’m featuring black residents from, or who represented Kitchener and make us all proud with their achievements
Fitz “The Whip” (With Hope It’s Possible) Fitzroy Vanderpool is a 6 time professional boxing champion. His family immigrated to Canada and Kitchener from Trinidad when he was 5.
His father introduced Fitz and his brothers to boxing and Fitz was later mentored and taught by the legendary Arnie Boehm whose students included Olympic and World Champion and fellow Kitchener resident Lennox Lewis.
Here are Fitz’s title wins:
1996 - Canadian Professional Boxing Federation Welterweight Champion.
1997 - World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Super Welterweight Champion.
1998 - World Boxing Council Fecarbox Welterweight Champion.
1999 - World Boxing Federation Super Welterweight Champion.
2002 - World Boxing Council Fecarbox Super Welterweight Champion
2013 - National Boxing Authority Middleweight Championship*
* Fitz retired in 2005 but came out of retirement in 2012 and won a 6 round decision over Phil Rose. In 2013 at age 45, he won the National Boxing Authority Middleweight Championship over Roberto McClellan who was 28 and 17 years younger. This win earned him his 6th Championship and made Fitz the oldest Canadian Champion in history passing George Chuvalo who was champion at 43.
In 1998, Fitz was the inaugural recipient of Kitchener’s Athlete of The Year Award.
He’s been operating his WHIP Boxing Academy since 2005 proving boxing and personal training, fit box/aerobics, bootcamps, summer camps and custom fitness programs for 8 year olds to adults.
In 2008, Fitz 'The Whip' was inducted into the Waterloo County Hall of Fame. He’s also a member of the Sunnyside Public School and Eastwood Collegiate Wall of Fame.
His annual WHIPYIT bike ride funds programs that build strength, confidence and emotional well-being for youth in transition.
He’s a frequent inspirational speaker in schools and supporter of multiple local charities. He’s proof that dreams come true through dedication, hard work and “WHIP” With Hope It’s Possible
Fitz “The Whip” (With Hope It’s Possible) Fitzroy Vanderpool is a 6 time professional boxing champion. His family immigrated to Canada and Kitchener from Trinidad when he was 5.
His father introduced Fitz and his brothers to boxing and Fitz was later mentored and taught by the legendary Arnie Boehm whose students included Olympic and World Champion and fellow Kitchener resident Lennox Lewis.
Here are Fitz’s title wins:
1996 - Canadian Professional Boxing Federation Welterweight Champion.
1997 - World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Super Welterweight Champion.
1998 - World Boxing Council Fecarbox Welterweight Champion.
1999 - World Boxing Federation Super Welterweight Champion.
2002 - World Boxing Council Fecarbox Super Welterweight Champion
2013 - National Boxing Authority Middleweight Championship*
* Fitz retired in 2005 but came out of retirement in 2012 and won a 6 round decision over Phil Rose. In 2013 at age 45, he won the National Boxing Authority Middleweight Championship over Roberto McClellan who was 28 and 17 years younger. This win earned him his 6th Championship and made Fitz the oldest Canadian Champion in history passing George Chuvalo who was champion at 43.
In 1998, Fitz was the inaugural recipient of Kitchener’s Athlete of The Year Award.
He’s been operating his WHIP Boxing Academy since 2005 proving boxing and personal training, fit box/aerobics, bootcamps, summer camps and custom fitness programs for 8 year olds to adults.
In 2008, Fitz 'The Whip' was inducted into the Waterloo County Hall of Fame. He’s also a member of the Sunnyside Public School and Eastwood Collegiate Wall of Fame.
His annual WHIPYIT bike ride funds programs that build strength, confidence and emotional well-being for youth in transition.
He’s a frequent inspirational speaker in schools and supporter of multiple local charities. He’s proof that dreams come true through dedication, hard work and “WHIP” With Hope It’s Possible
Mike McKegney was the first black player to play for the Kitchener Rangers. I remember watching Mike, he was an extremely skilled player and a great skater. His hand-eye coordination was incredible. Quite a few of his goals were scored by tipping a puck that was in mid-air into the net. He could also disrupt plays by the other team by using his hand-eye coordination to knock down passes.
Long time Rangers fans will remember Mike as a fan favourite. Whenever he was on the ice he stood out with his exciting combination of speed and skill. Mike was a flashy player who could get around opposing players, find open ice and take a good shot, deke a goalie out, or make a great pass.
His first season was the 1971-72 season where as a rookie he was 9th in team scoring with 38 points.
In his second season, due to injuries he only played 46 games but was still 6th in team scoring.
In the 1973-74 season he played 70 games and was tied for 2nd in team scoring with 39 goals and 49 assists for 87 points.
Mike was the first black player drafted by the Montreal Canadiens when they selected him in the 4th Round, 69th overall in the 1974 draft. Mike recalls getting a phone call from Scotty Bowman telling him they were going to draft him. The Habs were deep in talent at that time winning the Stanley Cup in 1973, 76, 77, 78 and 79 and Mike never played for the Canadiens but says the experience of being at training camp with players like Guy Lafleur, Yvan Cournoyer and Ken Dryden was incredible.
Mike played professionally until the 1977-78 season. He returned to his hometown of Sarnia where he most recently was the owner of Healthy Paws Pet Nutrition Centre for Over 27 years.
For more on Mike McKegney, click here https://bit.ly/3ZkGhNp
Long time Rangers fans will remember Mike as a fan favourite. Whenever he was on the ice he stood out with his exciting combination of speed and skill. Mike was a flashy player who could get around opposing players, find open ice and take a good shot, deke a goalie out, or make a great pass.
His first season was the 1971-72 season where as a rookie he was 9th in team scoring with 38 points.
In his second season, due to injuries he only played 46 games but was still 6th in team scoring.
In the 1973-74 season he played 70 games and was tied for 2nd in team scoring with 39 goals and 49 assists for 87 points.
Mike was the first black player drafted by the Montreal Canadiens when they selected him in the 4th Round, 69th overall in the 1974 draft. Mike recalls getting a phone call from Scotty Bowman telling him they were going to draft him. The Habs were deep in talent at that time winning the Stanley Cup in 1973, 76, 77, 78 and 79 and Mike never played for the Canadiens but says the experience of being at training camp with players like Guy Lafleur, Yvan Cournoyer and Ken Dryden was incredible.
Mike played professionally until the 1977-78 season. He returned to his hometown of Sarnia where he most recently was the owner of Healthy Paws Pet Nutrition Centre for Over 27 years.
For more on Mike McKegney, click here https://bit.ly/3ZkGhNp
Jamal Murray was born in Kitchener. While playing high school basketball at Grand River Collegiate it was clear he was a special player. He transferred to Orangeville Prep where his outstanding play got him invited to the Nike Hoop Summit in 2015. He scored 30 points in the game and was named MVP. He received scholarship offers from Kentucky, Wake Forest, Oregon Michigan State and Missouri. Jamal chose Kentucky where in his freshman season he averaged 20 points a game.
He was named to the South Eastern Conference Tournament First Team and All Freshman Team
After his freshman season he declared for the 2016 NBA Draft and was invited to the NBA combine. Jamal was selected in the first round, 7th overall by the Denver Nuggets. In his rookie season he played in every game, starting in 10 of them. He was named Rookie of the month for October/November and to the all rookie second team. He’s also a member of Canada’s National Basketball team.
In 2019 Jamal returned home to unveil a basketball court he partnered with Waterloo Region Housing to create and give out school supplies he donated. In the 2020 playoffs Jamal’s strong performance including two 50 point games and an average of 31.6 points a game helped the Nuggets eliminate Utah and get to the conference final against the Lakers. He was named winner of the Sports Illustrated Break Out Award.
He was named to the South Eastern Conference Tournament First Team and All Freshman Team
After his freshman season he declared for the 2016 NBA Draft and was invited to the NBA combine. Jamal was selected in the first round, 7th overall by the Denver Nuggets. In his rookie season he played in every game, starting in 10 of them. He was named Rookie of the month for October/November and to the all rookie second team. He’s also a member of Canada’s National Basketball team.
In 2019 Jamal returned home to unveil a basketball court he partnered with Waterloo Region Housing to create and give out school supplies he donated. In the 2020 playoffs Jamal’s strong performance including two 50 point games and an average of 31.6 points a game helped the Nuggets eliminate Utah and get to the conference final against the Lakers. He was named winner of the Sports Illustrated Break Out Award.
Colleen James is the first Black person elected to Region Of Waterloo Council. She received the most votes of any Councillor.
She’s the founder of Divonify who work with private and not-for-profit organizations and businesses to become more equitable and inclusive. Locally, nationally, and internationally Colleen is a leading consultant on equity and inclusion.
She earned an Honours B.A. in History, Political Science, and Caribbean Studies. Colleen also earned a Master’s Degree in Leadership, Higher, and Adult Education. She’s a graduate of Leadership Waterloo Region and currently serves on their selection committee.
In 2020 Colleen was named one of the Top 100 Black Women to Watch. She was named one of the Top 25 Diversity Equity and Inclusion Persons of the Year by the Canadian Multicultural Group in 2021.
At Regional Council Colleen chairs the Planning and Works Committee and serves on the Budget, Audit. Administration & Finance, Community & Health Services and Licensing & Hearing Committees.
She’s the founder of Divonify who work with private and not-for-profit organizations and businesses to become more equitable and inclusive. Locally, nationally, and internationally Colleen is a leading consultant on equity and inclusion.
She earned an Honours B.A. in History, Political Science, and Caribbean Studies. Colleen also earned a Master’s Degree in Leadership, Higher, and Adult Education. She’s a graduate of Leadership Waterloo Region and currently serves on their selection committee.
In 2020 Colleen was named one of the Top 100 Black Women to Watch. She was named one of the Top 25 Diversity Equity and Inclusion Persons of the Year by the Canadian Multicultural Group in 2021.
At Regional Council Colleen chairs the Planning and Works Committee and serves on the Budget, Audit. Administration & Finance, Community & Health Services and Licensing & Hearing Committees.
Dom Vallie, was born in Toronto in 2000 and raised in Kitchener. When he was 12, Dom started writing rhymes, when he was 14 he used a plug and play USB mic he received as a birthday gift to record his first song. He used the time confined to his home from a grounding from his mother to get serious about developing his music skills. He used Garage Band to create beats and loops and wrote raps to those beats and recorded them.
From there, he created his first project, Nights, which was released on Spotify in 2017. His follow up albums Vallie Girls was released in 2021 and Are We There Yet in 2022.
His career continues to rise. He's nominated for a Juno Award for Rap Single Of The Year for Been Himma. On February 16, he's performed with Tomb at THEMUSEUM in Downtown Kitchener as part of the Downtown Kitchener BIA Free Concert Series. You can visit Dom Vallie's website HERE
From there, he created his first project, Nights, which was released on Spotify in 2017. His follow up albums Vallie Girls was released in 2021 and Are We There Yet in 2022.
His career continues to rise. He's nominated for a Juno Award for Rap Single Of The Year for Been Himma. On February 16, he's performed with Tomb at THEMUSEUM in Downtown Kitchener as part of the Downtown Kitchener BIA Free Concert Series. You can visit Dom Vallie's website HERE
Master T, Tony Young.
Immigrated to Canada and Kitchener from Leeds England in 1974. He attended KCI.
An iconic show host and producer for 17 years at Much Music, he Interviewed hundreds of artists like Jennifer Lopez, Jay Z, Janet Jackson Madonna, Eminem and the did the last interview Tupac gave.
Tony also compiled the platinum selling Much DanceMix CDs
Known and appreciated across Canada for promoting positivity, unity , harmony and helping others succeed.
He’s a sought after festival, event and concert host, actor, film maker and interviewer.
Immigrated to Canada and Kitchener from Leeds England in 1974. He attended KCI.
An iconic show host and producer for 17 years at Much Music, he Interviewed hundreds of artists like Jennifer Lopez, Jay Z, Janet Jackson Madonna, Eminem and the did the last interview Tupac gave.
Tony also compiled the platinum selling Much DanceMix CDs
Known and appreciated across Canada for promoting positivity, unity , harmony and helping others succeed.
He’s a sought after festival, event and concert host, actor, film maker and interviewer.
During Black History Month in 2022 on my social media accounts, I featured black residents from Kitchener, or who represented Kitchener and make us all proud with their achievements
To learn more about Kitchener's commitment to Equity, Diversity, Anti-Racism, Indigenous Initiatives, Inclusion and Social Justice Issues, click the image below.
Lift Off By CCAWR is collaborating with members of the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem of Waterloo Region and Wellington County to develop and deliver a new incubator and accelerator program for Black early-stage and growth entrepreneurs. To learn more , click the image below.
My fellow Councillor Ayo Owodunni hosts a Podcast called The Immigrant View.
Ayo and his guests share information for immigrants looking to maximize their potential in Canada.
To access his podcasts, click his image below
Ayo and his guests share information for immigrants looking to maximize their potential in Canada.
To access his podcasts, click his image below
Toronto Maple Leafs Video: There Can't Be Black Excellence Without Black Futures
To Watch, Click The Image Below
To Watch, Click The Image Below
