Mary Burlie Award

Individuals and groups, regardless of ethnic origin, who are delivering effective programs and / or services to the Black Community.

2023 Mr. Mark Rose

Mark arrived in Alberta in 1979 at the age of 11. He completed school to the level of a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Alberta. He was soon hired by Parkland School Division as a high school Social Studies and Physical Education teacher, transitioned to Athletic Director, and now Assistant Principal. Mark is a dedicated educator who has done extraordinary work as a volunteer in the community. He has worked within the indigenous community, improving the graduation rate for indigenous students at the Parkland School Division. Never losing his Jamaican roots, for 20 years Mark has continued to collaborate with the Jamaica Association of Northern Alberta & has facilitated and led a yearly summer camp to support children of Caribbean descent. His contribution has been instrumental in connecting youth to various sports, cultural, and leadership opportunities they may not otherwise have had. Mark has done a phenomenal job helping black youths to maintain their stability. Mark is married to Corrine; they are the proud parents of 3 very active sons.

2023 Black Canadian Women in Action (BCW)

BCW was founded in 2017. They are a bilingual, non-profit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of families in Black Canadian communities living in Western Canada. BCW in Action promotes the empowerment of black Canadian women, girls, and families in all sectors of society by building self-esteem, leadership, and confidence through conferences, workshops, and programs. BCW has been successful in programming that brings together entrepreneurs and professionals and provides them the opportunity to develop personally & professionally through advocacy, education, leadership. BCW promotes cultural activities specific to our communities, which gives a sense of belonging to Canadian Society. BCW has locations in Edmonton, Calgary & Regina.

2022 Barry Curtis

Barry Curtis founded the Basketball Academy, established in 1999, and the Red Storm Basketball Club. With a former role as Assistant Coach for NAIT College Men’s Basketball, he brings over 20 years of experience working with youths across Canada. Barry’s philosophy emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and mutual respect, nurturing youth to their full potential through support and empowerment. He fosters character building and confidence, benefiting Albertans through healthy lifelong activities. Barry is NCAA-certified, a mentor, role model, and community builder dedicated to giving back and uplifting the community.

Fil Fraser Award

This award is presented to individuals or groups who have done outstanding work in literary, performing and /or visual Arts.

2023 Ms. Andrea Cox

Andrea Cox is a Canadian born author and raised in Calgary. She is the founder of Cox Compassionate Planning Services (Preplan First), a company founded in 2021 to help families and communities fully organize their affairs. She is Licensed in both Alberta and British Columbia Canada to sell prepaid funeral home packages and holds a double license in Alberta. Andrea wrote the book, “Final Departure.” Her goal is to help families consider putting a plan in place now, and then living their best lives, knowing that tomorrow is not guaranteed. Her book is a Canadian best seller & has a 4 ½ star rating (Barnes & Noble). Her book is available at Amazon, Indigo & Chapters location.

2023 Dr. Love Nwigwe

Dr. Love Nwigwe, was trained in Italy as a chemist with a pharmaceutical background. She graduated with a B.Sc. in Wellness Management from Burma University. At Trinity School of Natural Health a designation of Master Herbalist She is also a Certified Natural Health Practitioner and a qualified Christian counsellor trained at North Carolina College of Theology USA. Dr. Love works as a wellness consultant at a Red Deer Medical Clinic where she offers counseling services to people experiencing racism, bullying, and other forms of harassment. She is a defender of human rights & peace, a woman of faith, who detests injustice and thrives in the atmosphere of equality, mutual respect, creativity, and opportunity to succeed. Her first short film “I Can’t Breathe” shares true stories of racial discrimination for Black people living in Canada. The film premiered on TELUS Optik TV in February for Black History Month. It highlights the dangers of racism, and she wanted the victims to feel heard and seen. Dr. Love wanted to create awareness, self-reflection, and to take a step in addressing personal & historical racism.

2022 Catherine Daniel

Catherine Daniel, born and raised in Edmonton, is an Opera Singer, Teacher, and Dynamic Performer who has worked in both Canada and Europe. She holds an Integrated Music/Education Degree since 2007 and has trained at prestigious institutions such as Atelier Lyrique de l’Opera de Montreal and Opera Studio

Netherlands. Catherine has performed at renowned venues including L’Orchestra Metropolitan, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, and Winnipeg – Montreal. In 2011, she opened more concerts and returned to the Netherlands in 2012 to participate in the Franz Schubert Institute in Baden, Austria. Catherine’s accolades include winning first place prizes at the Coeur D’Alene’s Symphony and the National Young Artist Competition. She also achieved her first professional recording with L’Opera de Montreal and Edmonton Opera in 2013.

2022 Garth Prinsonsky

Garth Prinsonsky, born in Cape Town, South Africa, is a musician and educator dedicated to teaching African culture and music to Canadian audiences, while also raising HIV awareness in Canada and Africa. He has been featured on CBC Radio Canada and has conducted performances and workshops in South Africa and Namibia. Garth has participated in artist-in-residence programs at the University of Alberta and NAIT, fostering understanding of the African experience and promoting cross-cultural engagement through community involvement.

2020 Alison Clarke

Alison Clarke, an award-winning author and poet, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Children’s Literature from Hollins University. Writing became her passion at an early age, finding solace in libraries and books as a safe haven. Alison is the author of “The Adventures of Eli” in 2006 and “The Sisterhood Book Series,” a trilogy of fantasy novels empowering women, particularly those of color, through art and collective strength. Additionally, Alison is an acclaimed visual artist, with her work showcased at esteemed venues such as the Art Gallery of Alberta and the University of Alberta, as well as in local and international art exhibitions. A performer of spoken word, she has graced stages at numerous local events. In 2011, Alison began her tenure as the Writer-In-Residence at the Alexandra Writers’ Centre in Calgary. Passionate about enriching the community, Alison serves as a mentor and instructor in visual arts and creative writing, contributing to the cultural landscape of Canada. She firmly believes in the transformative power of art in shaping a better world.

2020 Amal Mohamud

Amal Mohamud, a Community Producer at OMNI Television, harnesses her platform to spotlight Somali stories and dispel misconceptions about the community. Leading the charge on the only mainstream media project dedicated to showcasing the local Somali community, she fills a crucial void she experienced growing up without relatable media role models. With Edmonton’s status as one of Canada’s most diverse cities and the Somali community being the largest African group in Alberta, Amal is committed to paving the way for the next generation, showing them that a career in media is not only viable but valuable. Driven by her ambition to become the first Somali television producer in Canada, Amal has collaborated with Canadian channels like Shaw TV Edmonton and Omni Alberta. Recognized for her contributions, she received Diversity Magazine’s AC Junior Achievement Award in 2019. Through her dedication to her craft and community, Amal serves as a beacon, spotlighting the hardworking, compassionate, and talented Somali individuals making a difference in Edmonton. Her work inspires, provides representation, and offers new role models, empowering the community. As a first-generation Somali Canadian, Amal is actively shaping Canada’s future by breaking barriers and amplifying diverse voices in the media landscape.

Clarence “Big” Miller Award

To individuals or groups in the Black Community who have demonstrated excellence in vocal or instrumental performance, music composition or instruction.

2022 Ms. Cherelle George

Cherelle has been in the dance and entertainment industry for more than 25 years. Her focus is to stay connected to her Trinidadian roots as well as to encourage others and lead them into moments of self-discovery through dance workshops and classes. Authenticity and energy are two key aspects of her teaching style. Cherelle created SocaFit in 2013, a dance and fitness program that is based on Caribbean culture. Through music, education, and movement, she continues to build connections with every interaction. With a focus on preserving Caribbean culture, Cherelle has been able to perform and work with a wide variety of organizations, both locally and internationally.

2022 Mr. Cameron Browne

Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Cam came to Canada in 2005. He obtained a Bachelor of Music degree from McEwan University with specialization in Jazz Contemporary Music. Cam is a master keyboardist & he also excels in playing the bass & drums. Cam is also an expert in Audio & Studio Production. Cam has played at multiple festivals & for multiple bands around the Province. He has travelled to the US and has done in-studio work with Rock & Roll Hall of Famers (The Carrs), John Robinson (Michael Jackson’s drummer from the movie Thriller), and Michael Jackson’s Mixer Bruce Swedien. Cam has played at the Bardot/Avalon in Hollywood. Cam has worked in the

role of musical director, music teacher, and is a legend in the community for music, theatre, audio & studio production.

2022 Mr. Enoch Attey

Enoch is a Canadian-based musician and producer. Born in Ivory Coast & raised on Ghanaian tradition. Picking up the guitar at 17, he’s played everything from Rock, Jazz, RnB, to Reggae and Gospel. Enoch holds a Bachelor of Arts in music. He walked the Juno red carpet 2 weeks ago as a nominee for project work. Enoch is a master guitarist, producer, songwriter, music teacher, music coordinator & studio engineer, he has a deep love for technology, continuing to push for new ways to use it. Enoch’s heart lies in bettering the community, and elevating what is possible across the board.

WAJJO African Drummers

Since 1990, WAJJO African Drummers have been captivating audiences across North America. Collaborating with musicians from diverse ethnic backgrounds, they craft a musical tradition that mirrors the cultural tapestry of Canada. Their performances showcase a fusion of African and Canadian traditional songs, accompanied by the mesmerizing rhythms of Western African Drumming. Led by Dr. Arthur Bollo Kamara and Stennie Noel, WAJJO draws inspiration from the Yoruba language of Nigeria. Complemented by Everoll Moses and Anthony Bernard of Kekeli African Dancers, the ensemble offers dynamic workshops and events that celebrate the vibrancy of African culture. Additionally, they collaborate with pipers, Irish dancers, and musicians, with notable performances including the Toronto Grey Cup.

2020 Wayne Simpson

Wayne Simpson, an accomplished percussionist with 25 years of experience, serves as a drum instructor and mentor at Bethel United Apostolic Church. He has instructed and mentored over 15 current drummers in Edmonton, spreading his passion and excellence for music. Wayne has been recognized for his contributions, receiving awards such as the Vibe Awards for Best Emerging Artist. In addition to his musical endeavors, he has established the Pearline Simpson Scholarship Funds, providing $8000 to date to support music instruction.

Youth (NBCC) Award

To young black individuals (aged 24 – 35 years or younger) or groups who have demonstrated academic excellence and/or delivered exceptional programs and services in any area of the Black Community or society at large

2023 Ms. Idara Iffiom

Idara is currently the volunteer and program manager at the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights. Idaira has years of experience working with minority & racialized communities. Since 2016, Idara worked extensively with international students to facilitate their transition to university and a new environment. Idara also supports the ELITE program for black youth at the University of Alberta- a program that creates opportunities for black youth to access experiential learning and work-integrated training in the STEM field. Some of her recognition includes the 2023 Alberta Council for Global Cooperation, Alberta top 30, Under 30 Award for commendable work in making the world a more just, fair, and sustainable place for all.

Peter “Sugarfoot” Cunningham Award

Individuals or groups from the Black Community who have demonstrated excellence in athletics and / or sports performance.

2023 Klarc Wilson

Klarc Wilson, a professional hockey player, began his journey at the age of 6 with KC Hockey and progressed to Midget AAA level. He spent seven years with the Brandon Wheat Kings from 2009 to 2016, achieving notable milestones such as the Western Championship in the WHL and participating in the Memorial Cup with the Edmonton Oil Kings in 2012. Klarc has also played for teams like the Prince George Cougars and attended the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Camp. Beyond the rink, he is actively involved in community charitable work and mentoring through school outreach programs. Known for his respectfulness and ability to take direction, Klarc aspires to continue his hockey career in the NHL while pursuing a career as a sports lawyer.

Rosalind Smith Award Professional

Exceptional and prolonged service from individuals or groups from the Black Community working in any profession.

2023 Dr. Temitope Oriola, PhD

Professor Oriola is a professor of Criminology & Sociology, an Associate Dean, Former special advisor to the government of Alberta on the Police Act Review, President-elect Canadian Sociological Association, Former president Canadian Association of African Studies. He is known for his work internationally. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy, is a Research Expertise, published 4 books. He has multiple Journal publications. He is the recipient of multiple prizes, fellowships, and awards. A Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal recipient. He was an academic speaker at the 15,000-person Black Lives Matter in Edmonton in 2020. He was one of those consulted by the City of Edmonton when an anti-racism plan was being developed. Professor Oriola is a leader and is known for service to his profession, the Black Community & Society at large.

2023 Ms. Funke Olokude

Funke holds a B.A. Hons in Psychology from York University, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary, a master’s degree in education from the University of Alberta and she is a Registered Social Worker with the Alberta College of Social Workers. She is a seasoned C-suite executive, Intercultural Relationship Facilitator, and Educator. In 2020, Funke was named Top 40/ under 40 for her continued work in influencing policy and practice across various sectors in Alberta. Funke’s contribution to the teaching and education space has also earned her a Jaye Fredrickson Award for Teaching Excellence 2021 & 2022 Nomination. For her leadership, a 2022 Woman of Inspiration Nomination and awarded the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. She is the current Executive Director of The Ribbon Rouge Foundation and the Co-founder of Hexagon Wellness Solutions. Funke also serves on the boards of the Bredin Centre for Career Advancement, Black Business Ventures Association (BBVA), and is the convener of an Ethnocultural Community Leadership Circle.

2023 Dr. Michael Njenga

Dr. Njenga was born in Kenya, obtained his MD in South Africa, moved to Namibia, New Zealand, and Australia before making his home in Canada 6 years ago. Dr. Njenga is a Family Doctor working in Alberta and the Medical Director of Canada Homecare Group, a clinic that provides mobile services to patients in the care of their home settings including private homes, seniors’ facilities, community centres, resettlement accommodation, and others. He works in Edmonton, Red Deer, Camrose, Calgary, and Lethbridge. Dr. Njenga provides medical care to marginalized and underserved communities including more than 10 Seniors facilities, Indigenous, Newcomers, and Refugees. He takes care of patients in social housing including Salvation Army and homeless shelters. He is an extraordinary Doctor, loved by Alberta Health Services, Catholic Social Services, Primary Care Networks, Community agencies, and described as “truly remarkable!” genuine, an amazing Dr”.

2022 Sophie Yohani

Sophie, originally from Tanzania, is a registered psychologist and assistant professor specializing in counseling psychology. She serves as the Director of Clinical Services at the Faculty of Education, where she conducts clinical community work focused on mental health and hope-focused counseling for individuals with traumatic experiences. Sophie is also actively engaged as a community worker, contributing to community development initiatives both locally and internationally. Her extensive experience includes involvement with organizations such as the Edmonton Newcomer Health Clinic, Africa Center, Mennonite Center, and she is a founding member of the Tanzania Community Association.

2020 Dr. Jean Walrond

Dr. Walrond came to Canada in 1968 from Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies to study Statistics and Economics at Sir George Williams University, Montreal. In 1979 Jean moved her family to Alberta. In 1988 Jean studied for a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Ecology. In the 1990s she completed a Master of Science degree in textiles and identity construction, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in education. Dr. Walrond is one of the original persons that gave birth to the Cariwest Festival. She has been a board member of Sickle Cell Foundation of Alberta (SCFA) since 2001. In 2021 she worked on the creation of a K–12 African and Caribbean Canadian literature curriculum that is now available in Edmonton public libraries. Dr. Waldron is a retired professor from Concordia University. She excels in community building.

Rosalind Smith Award Business

Exceptional and prolonged service from individuals or groups from the Black Community owning and running a business.

2020 Bulk Buy Wholesale (Kemi Bolatito -Bello)

Operated from a food processing and retail store in South Edmonton. They provide a specialty of ethnic foods and grocery options at bargain prices. Bulk buy was incorporated in 2019 & grew to a second location in 2 years. Bulk Buy donates food to low-income families through a food program called Yeg Food Share. They donated over 100,000 pounds of fresh foods in less than 16 months. Their mission is to eliminate food waste & facilitate foods that may otherwise be sent to landfills. They support young black youths who are marginally disadvantaged from employment by partnering with the Africa Centre’s Youth Boost Program. They have successfully hired and trained 4 full-time students. Kemi has impacted the lives of people in our community, through volunteering. She currently sits on the board of Edmonton Community Adult Learning Association. She was nominated for RBC Women of Influence in 2021.

2020 Royal Delivery Services

Royal Delivery Services is a Black-led trucking business in Edmonton for 34 years, providing transportation service in Edmonton, Central and Northern AB. The company is owned by Mr. Robert Modeste, a native of Grenada. Royal has a fleet of 15 trucks, plus contracting owner operators as needed. They transport crates, pipes, pallets & other equipment, and materials. Royal has supported several community initiatives including providing their trucks to be used in the Cariwest festival yearly for over 25 years. Royal provides charitable support to several black community organizations as well as to the Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Cancer Society, Canadian Burn Center, Hospital Activity Books for Children, & School lunch program. Royal is proud to provide an essential service, that includes black employees to contribute to the black community wealth. They provide dependability and superior customer service making then a leader in the transportation industry.

2022 Yvette Mitchell

Yvette, born in London, England, migrated to Canada in 1989 and pursued her education at Harry Hainlay High School. She earned a full scholarship to Marvel College and apprenticed under Shirley Romany before gaining 12 years of experience at Ebony & Ivory salon, where she excelled as a top stylist and later became the manager. In 2004, Yvette established her own business, Yves Salon, and has since continued her education, participating in shows and workshops across Canada and the USA. With a passion for biracial ethnic hair care, she also volunteers at the Cross Cancer Institute. Yvette is a multifaceted individual with a passion for fashion, and in 2013, she expanded her talents to include designing clothing and jewelry while raising her son, Hezekiah.

2022 Cheryl Applewhaite

Cheryl, born in Trinidad, is a U of A graduate in Physical Therapy and an experienced acupuncturist specializing in head, neck, and jaw pain at Corona Physio Rehab Centre. With 25 years of expertise, she is the first Canadian physical therapist certified in craniofacial and cervical therapeutics, as well as a certified cervical and temporomandibular therapist. Cheryl also offers manipulative physiotherapy and Chinese medical acupuncture, providing essential services to inner-city residents at the Boyle McCauley Health Center.

Dr. John Akabutu Award

For Demonstrating Resiliency Against Challenging Odds

2023 Amelie Adolphe

Amelie was only 18 months when she collapsed in her Red Deer Home. She was transferred from the Red Deer hospital to the Stollery. She had to be resuscitated twice after going into cardiac arrest within 15 minutes at the Stollery Children’s Hospital. Extensive emergency heart surgery was performed, she received 4.2 litres of transfused blood, & surgeons realized the extent of the injury. Amelie had damage caused by her swallowing a Lithium Coin Battery (button battery). Amelie is doing well; she is here with her parents Leslie and Astrel.

2023 Akeema Smith

Akeema is a 22-year-old mixed woman completing her undergrad at MacEwan University. She is majoring in psychology and minoring in sociology and anthropology. Akeema plans on becoming a registered psychologist. Akeema is a cancer survivor of stage 3 melanoma cancer. She was diagnosed at 18 years old (2019), completed treatment at 20 years of age in (2020). 3 months ago, at 22 years old (December 2022), she had her final surgery. She is now cancer-free and working hard on navigating life and young adulthood after cancer.

Noel Chen Award

Individual/s who are attending a college or vocational training program in the trades/ or be registered as an Alberta apprentice in a trade. Must also be able to provide proof of voluntary services to the community

2022 Jamoy Dennie

Jamoy came to Canada in 2014 from Jamaica. He completed AOB High School in 2019 and began his journey to become a registered automotive Mechanic. He is currently attending the NAIT Auto Mechanic program, and he is apprenticing with GHD Auto repairs.

2022 Calvin S. Dixon

Calvin is a Canadian Citizen of Jamaican heritage. He is a graduate of O’Leary High School. He has completed his certificate in Heating & Ventilation Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technical (HVAC) from NAIT. He is now a registered Apprentice in the Alberta Government Apprenticeship & Industry Training Alberta Trades. He is currently working on completing his certification as a Gas Fitter at NAIT.