The third annual OCSB Black Student Forum is Thursday, October 27, 2022. This one-day event allows black students to meet and give voice to their collective experiences within their school communities.
The forum aims to provide a safe affinity space for black students to discuss how their life experiences affect their academic success and well-being—allowing them to meet and connect with students from other schools and building a sense of a board-wide community.
The forum will include a keynote presentation by Mr. Chukwuyem Imahiagbe, Vice-Principal, St. Pius X High School. Mr. Imahiagbe is the recipient of the NCAO Excellence in Leadership Award. The award recognizes outstanding community leadership, building bridges and promoting Nigerian-Canadian culture and heritage. The forum will feature student-led workshops on various themes, such as:
- Black Mental Health
- Black Excellence & Black Joy
- Colourism and Texturism
- Black Student Mentorship
While this space is primarily for students that self-identify as Black, other students are welcome to support their local Black Student Association as allies and partner with their BSAs to create equitable school environments for all. Students can get involved by attending and supporting initiatives organized by their local Black Student Association. By promoting allyship against racism and oppression, school communities will be places of inclusion and acceptance, enhancing the learning experience for black students.
A big takeaway for students attending past forums is that their voice matters. They feel heard, seen, respected, and welcomed, knowing they have a family and a community surrounding them in their schools. The day will end with networking and an exchange of ideas that will lead to an action plan within the Board’s 15 high schools.
Hear from last year’s Grade 12 students from Immaculata High School, Temitayo, and Christine as they share their experiences with being involved in this meaningful event.