New doc tells the story of reggae hit BamBam’sSister Nancy
By RON FANFAIR
While some might view cold calls as rude and intrusive, they can sometimes lead to excellent opportunities and outcomes.
Award-winning film director/writer/producer Alison Duke received an unexpected call while working late one night from DJ Mossman who, with fellow Canadian DJ Chocolate, have collaborated with veteran reggae artist Sister Nancy over the years.
“I hear you make music documentaries over there and I want you to do this film about Sister Nancy,” were his first words, recalled the OYA Media Group co-founder who launched her creative career by making music videos. “I was like, ‘Is she still alive’? He insisted I do the project and said Sister Nancy would like me.”
After digesting the request, Duke saw a potential project that could be successful and reached out to Sister Nancy whose signature song, ‘Bam Bam’, is one of reggae’s most sampled songs, yet few people know the singer behind its most recognizable version.
“We hit it off right away,” she said of the first phone meeting.
Nearly six years later, the documentary – Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story – made its Toronto premiere.
Making movies and documentaries is time-consuming and can take years.
Just as filming was about to start in March 2020, the COVID pandemic hit and production was halted because of safety concerns.
“We were scheduled to start shooting at an event held in conjunction with the South by Southwest Film Festival in Texas,” said Duke who was the first Black woman to direct a Heritage Minute for Historica Canada in 2021. “When that show got cancelled, we knew that COVID was real. I had to figure out how to do a remote shoot with her.”
Before the pandemic, Sister Nancy had 40 booked tours.
“I thought I could tell a movie about her touring, but there had to be other pieces to fill in,” said Duke, who
have a lot of archives, I thought I could do some recreations and make it like a dancehall culture.”
With limited access to archival footage, the filmmaker came up with creative solutions, including reimaging aspects of Sister Nancy’s childhood and life through original footage.
“I love the finished product because it has a lot of energy with structure,” Duke said.
Of the dozens of projects she has produced in the last three decades, the Sister Nancy Story is at the top.
“I think it is my best film because people get to see what I could do as a filmmaker when there are not many constraints,” said Duke who produced the Akua Benjamin Legacy digital web series project in 2016 that celebrates the work of six deceased Black Canadian community activists. “I wrote it, directed it and am a co-producer. OYA Media owns the film and it is the first one we are
The documentary mixes dynamic tour performances and insightful interviews with industry figures, including Michie Mee, Pete Rock, Young Guru and Janelle Monae and archival footage of the early dancehall scene to create a comprehensive portrait of Sister Nancy’s enduring prominence in reggae and hip hop.
“It is important to shine light on pioneers who have come before me, who have blazed trails and who have taken our music to the next level,” said Monae, a singer/ songwriter/actress.
Sister Nancy’s music transcends boundaries, resonating with diverse audiences around the world from reggae and hip-hop enthusiasts to music lovers.
“It means the world to me to share my story,” she said at a special screening at the Toronto International Film Festival Lightbox. “Not every artiste gets the opportunity to do that and I am so glad it happened. I am thankful to the OYA Media Group for choosing me to make a documentary. My story really needed to be told and watched…I do good music that uplift people. I will not stop until I can’t do it anymore.”
Grammy-nominated Sister Carol joined Sister Nancy on the red carpet.
“The people love, still love Nancy and can’t stop love (her),” noted the Bachelor of Science in Education holder who has produced 19 albums in the last four decades. Growing up in St. Andrew, older brother Brigadier Jerry was Sister Nancy’s inspiration.
The well-respected DJ among his peers was a member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel Rastafari group.
“When he just come in the yard, he always go to the bathroom,” Sister Nancy said. “I would go close by with my pen and paper and write whatever I could get from him without him knowing I doing it. Sometimes, I didn’t get it the perfect way he says it. But I get it and do my best to make it the way I want it. He is the one that made it possible for me.”
The Jamaican ska and rocksteady group, Toots and the Maytals, released the original ‘Bam Bam’ in 1966 that won the island’s inaugural Independence Festival Song competition.
With DJ Chocolate spinning, Sister Nancy performed after the screening of the documentary
Group’s aim is to improve Black maternal health
By LINCOLN DEPRADINE
When Toronto council-backed events were held in the city last month to highlight concerns of maternal care for Black women, community organizers emphasized the necessity of hosting the first ever “Black Maternal Health Week”.
“Really, it’s about awareness. We want to start a conversation about this issue,” Jennifer Dockery, a nurse and member of the Black Maternal Health Collective Canada (BMHCC), told Share in an interview.
Dockery and others in the BMHCC say the impact of anti-Black racism on the reproductive health of Black women, pregnant people and families is what they describe as “an urgent, and often silent, health issue in Canada”.
A major Canadian study by McGill University—between 2004 and 2006—found that 8.9 per cent of Black women gave birth to pre-term babies, compared to 5.9 per cent of their White peers.
The data mirrors trends seen in the United States, where Black Maternal Health Week has been observed since 2019.
“A Black Maternal Health Week is necessary in order for us to highlight and spotlight the persistent disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women and birthing people,” said Dockery, who is employed at North York General Hospital (NYGH) as vice president of Quality, PostAcute Care and Community Integration.
“Outside of raising awareness and doing some public education, we also want to advocate for action and for change in healthcare. Black women are more likely to die during childbirth than their White counterparts; and that statistic stays intact, even when you control for things like income, education and their pre-pregnancy health status.”
The activities marking Black Maternal Health Week were launched at NYGH,
with hospital officials present, as well as representatives of government and the BMHCC, and also business, civic and cultural leaders.
The theme for the week was, “Amplifying our Voices”.
The BMHCC was founded by Toronto lawyer Jenelle Ambrose Dash, after the tragic, late-term loss of her child.
“She took the energy from her own personal, unfortunate maternal experience and decided to take her grief and turn it into something positive,” Dockery said.
BMHCC’s mission is, “to contribute to a positive change in Black health outcomes by raising awareness about critical Black maternal health issues”.
In photo, from left, Ontario government rep. STAN CHO, Senator PAULETTE SENIOR Toronto’s Acting MOH, Dr. NA-KOSHIE LAMPTEY, NYGH’s JENNIFER DOCKERY, BMHCC chair JENELLE AMBROSE DASH, lawyer KAYLA SMITH, and NYGH’s CEO DR. EVERTON GOODEN Photo by Lincoln Depradine
Canadian tourists lauded as JTB marks its 70th anniversary
By RON FANFAIR
The first year after the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) became an arm of the Jamaican government in April 1955, the island welcomed about 100,000 visitors.
In 2024, over 4.3 million travellers visited the destination, resulting in a total tourism revenue of US$4.3 billion.
At a celebration in Toronto on April 14 to mark the JTB’s 70th anniversary, Director of Tourism Donovan White noted that Canada has been a significant contributor to the success of Jamaica’s tourism sector which employs 26.2 per cent of the population.
“The significance of what we do to the well-being of Jamaica and Jamaicans is very important and I say that without hesitation,” he said.
Last year, the island welcomed over 400,000 stopover visitors which was 6.2 per cent more than the previous year and 48 per cent more than 2022.
Ontario is the largest Canadian market with over 277,000 visitors yearly and 42 per cent of Canadian visitors returning to Jamaica, making them a very loyal group of travellers to the western Caribbean island.
“We owe a great deal of success to the ever-expanding Canadian market,” said White. “Canadians have consistently been among the most loyal travellers to Jamaica.”
The Quebec market has also been steadily growing.
Last year, there was a 23 per cent increase over the past year with about 60,000 visitors holidaying on the island.
Jamaica will launch a new weekly flight from Quebec City to the island next winter, starting on December 6.
“Over the last five years, we have been reaching out to our partners to walk with
us to Quebec City,” White said. “I have to tell you that one of them has decided to invest with us.”
The late Abe Issa and John Pringle played leading roles in the establishment of the JTB seven decades ago.
Issa, the JTB’s first Chairman who died in 1984, spearheaded an aggressive global marketing campaign that saw arrivals increase from nearly 86,000 tourists and four million pounds in 1955 to about 227,000 tourists and 38 million pounds in revenue by the time Jamaica achieved independence in 1962.
The owner of the Round Hill Hotel that hosted John F. Kennedy before his inauguration as America’s 35th President in 1961 and actors Paul Newman and Grace Kelly, Pringle was Jamaica’s first Director of Tourism from 1963 to 1967.
The cousin of former Island Records owner Chris Blackwell also served as Jamaica’s Tourism Minister from 1989 to 1992 and Honorary Ambassador before his death in December 2006.
Angella Bennett, the JTB Regional Director in Canada, acknowledged the pioneers who paved the way for Jamaica’s tourism to grow and flourish.
“Few could imagine the journey ahead,” she said. “From welcoming just over 100,000 visitors annually in the 1950s to now boasting millions of arrivals per year, our evolution has been nothing short of remarkable. Their foresight transformed a small Caribbean island into the world’s most beloved destination. We stand on their shoulders tonight as we continue to innovate and elevate the Jamaica experience. As we look to the future, we remain committed to sustainability and sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the Jamaican
population.”
Canada, Bennett added, has always held a special place in the journey, consistently ranking among Jamaica’s top three source markets.
Jamaica’s Consul General in Toronto Kurt Davis recognized the importance of the tourism sector to the Jamaican government.
“Celebrating this significant milestone is a reflection of years of tireless, strategic, diligent and exciting work to grow and sustain one of Jamaica’s prime industries and at the same time contribute to national development,”
Reggaeartisteinsiststhegenreisstillalive
Running out of lyrics to complete her ‘One, Two’ debut album in 1982, Sister Nancy accepted an invitation from Yellowman – who she was working with at the time – to accompany him and the late Fathead to Harry J Recording studio where they were scheduled to do a track.
Yellowman and Fathead collaborated in the early 1980s, producing the first ever live dancehall album.
Their version of ‘Bam Bam’ blew her away.
“I called Winston Riley (her late producer) from the studio and told him I wanted to finish my album today,” Sister Nancy recounted. “When he asked what I have, I told him ‘Bam Bam’
A few months after the album’s release, she came to Toronto for the first time and was featured in the third issue of the since defunct Reggae Quarterly magazine co-published by photographer/reggae historian Beth Lesser and reggae disc jockey Dave Kingston who hosted ‘Reggae Showcase’ on CKLN.
Unaware of the song’s popularity after relocating to New Jersey in 1996, Sister Nancy held an accounting position at a bank for 14 years while doing gigs and touring on weekends and during vacations.
After learning she had rights to her songs, she reached out to Riley to discuss royalties. Though promising to meet, he failed to show up.
Not long after, Sister Nancy learned from her daughter that her version of ‘Bam Bam’ was in a Reebok commercial.
The song has also been sampled in tracks by Lauryn Hill, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Wiz Khalifa and Too Short.
Seeking legal advice, Sister Nancy received 10 years of royalties and obtained 50 per cent of the rights to the song that topped the iTunes Reggae Chart in 2015.
Financially stable, she quit her bank job a decade ago and is now focused on making music and doing shows. For young musicians trying to make their way in the
industry, Sister Nancy has a word of advice.
“Before you even get to the stage, ensure that you know something about the business,” she said. “Take care of that before you go to the studio.”
Although some may argue that reggae is not as mainstream as it once was, the veteran dancehall artiste said the genre is alive.
“It is not where I want it to be,” Sister Nancy said. “Everyone deserves to do what they want. I do not blend, mix or dilute. I try to be original as best as I can to keep it the way it should be. That is the right way.”
Duke and Ngardy Conteh George founded OYA Media Group in 2018 to create groundbreaking content that entertains and sparks meaningful conversations.
“Working with Alison is a masterclass,” said George who attended the University of New Orleans on a track & field scholarship before turning her focus to film production. “She is such an amazing talent and visionary. This production demonstrates what she can do when given space to make her magic.”
he said. “Jamaicans around the world and all stakeholders can be justly proud of the significant impact the JTB has had over the last 70 years, effectively delivering its core mandate of always positioning Jamaica as the pre-eminent Caribbean tourism destination that delivers value for the people and government of Jamaica and the tourism industry stakeholders.”
Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has built on the pioneers’ legacy, revitalizing and expanding the tourism sector while positioning it as a global leader in innovation and resilience.
To mark the JTB’s platinum jubilee, award-winning chef Noel Cunningham created a grip cake filled with Jamaican coffee, zesty lime and rum.
He said decorating the cake took about four hours.
“It was a really busy weekend for me (he presented at the annual Toronto Food & Drink Fest at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre), but I could not miss the opportunity to do this for my birth country,” said Cunningham who made the 2024 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant list. Tourism in Jamaica began in the late 1890s with the launch of the Myrtle Bank Hotel in Kingston and the Titchfield Hotel in Port Antonio, catering to North Americans and Europeans seeking relief from the harsh winters.
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Students laud the support of the Onyx Initiative
By RON FANFAIR
Networking builds relationships and opens doors to new opportunities.
A year ago, Darius Bruno was flying by the seat of his pants. Unsure about a career path to pursue his
skills and knowledge and without knowing anyone to help him chart a course, he was introduced to the Onyx Initiative that bridges the gap in recruitment and selection of Black college and university students
along with recent graduates for roles in corporate Canada.
Early Childhood educator Leslieann McLean-Bruno, who left Trinidad & Tobago in June 1972, told her son about the program.
Bridging the Gap
“She is always looking for opportunities to help my two young siblings and I advance,” said Bruno. “When I was younger, mom and dad (Gary Bruno) talked to me about the importance of networking and acquiring internships, but I didn’t pay much attention to what they were saying.”
The lightbulb came on after his first networking event at OPTrust which invests and manages Canada’s largest pension funds and administers the Ontario Public Service Employees Union pension plan. Suddenly, the young man saw the wisdom in what his parents were preaching.
“I was very apprehen -
sive and unsure of myself going into that event,” recounted Bruno who completed high school at St. Michael’s College School.
“As soon as I got into that space, everyone made me feel welcomed and I perked up.”
Meeting Satwant Pannu, who is OPTrust Senior Vice-President of Information Technology Operations & Security, was a Godsend.
“I am considering getting into the cybersecurity field,” he said. “Because of Onyx, I was able to meet someone in the field who could guide me. Previously, I was on LinkedIn where people are not comfortable sharing much information if they don’t know you.
I am now doing a lot of networking and meeting amazing people who are giving me advice to advance my career.”
They include Pannu who is mentoring Bruno who started university to become a therapist. He changed course and graduated with a Psychology degree in 2022 from Wilfrid Laurier.
Still unsure of a career goal, Bruno took a year off before doing a Computer Programming diploma course at Seneca College.
“I have always been big on technology and I love doing computer graphics,” he said. “I built computers and did troubleshooting for friends’ devices. My YouTube channel is all about tech videos.”
While enrolled in the Onyx program, he started the BusyQA 14-week cybersecurity analyst and co-op program.
“Because of this program and Onyx, I have learned more than I did in the four years doing a university degree,” added Bruno who was among Onyx scholars, employee partners and supporters celebrated at the second
See THE PROGRAM Pg. 15
THE UWI TORONTO BENEFIT AWARDS 2025 IS PROUD TO HAVE HONOURED:
• Mr. Myron Garron and Mrs. Berna Garron (accepted by Mark Garron) – G. Raymond Chang Award
• Onyx Initiative (accepted by Wayne and Nigela Purboo)– Chancellor’s Award • Ms. Leslie Woo – Vice Chancellor’s Award • Dr. Jason “Kardinal O shall” Harrow – Luminary Award • Mrs. Barbara Taylor – Volunteer Award
• Mrs. Patricia Deguire – Vice Chancellor’s Award • Dr. Mark Beckles – Vice Chancellor’s Award Your dedication and impact inspire us all, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations on
DARIUS BRUNO RAMLA ELMI
Creating art to empower the younger generation
By RON FANFAIR
While driving six years ago, Ava Jasmine Dedier asked her dad what she could do with art.
“I told her to look around and that everything she sees comes from a creative concept in someone’s mind,” Robert Dedier said. “Somebody started with a plan and then an engineer produced a design to make it real. At that moment, I saw a light go off in her head. It was like, ‘Wow, I can actually do this’.”
Reassured that art takes many shapes and is a sustainable career beyond being a passion, the teenager retreated to her canvas to create.
“She went into a room and drew for many hours,” said her father who is a music producer. “Whenever asked what she will do with art, her answer is, ‘Create’.”
Realizing that art is more than just a hobby, Dedier poured her soul into her work.
“I stayed up late at night, sketching out ideas too big to keep bottled up,” she recalled. “It wasn’t easy, but it felt like I was finally starting to figure out who I am and how I wanted to show up in the world.
“Over the years, I have thrown myself into learning, experimenting and growing as an artist. I have explored many styles, honed my skills and found my niche. In addition, I found my purpose which is to create for those who feel unseen, to celebrate the beauty of differences and to remind the world that art has the power to connect us all.”
While viewing art exhibitions at museums across Canada, Dedier didn’t see herself reflected in the works of the artists showcased.
“Jasmine thought there was a big gap between old and young artists and she wanted to create art that would empower the younger generation to feel open to express themselves,” her dad said.
Dedier was among a group of Black artists whose works were displayed at Newmarket’s Old Town Hall’s Serpa Gallery during Black History Month.
Her debut collection, ‘Trendsetters: The Divine Feminism’, was a celebration of African heritage and cultural beauty.
“This is essentially a spiritual concept revolving around empowerment, beauty and resilience among other things,” said Dedier. “Though these qualities are com-
monly associated with women, they are present within everybody.”
Comprising five pieces, the exhibit was a mixed media collection combining acrylic paint with authentic African textile, creating textured and visually striking pieces that honour heritage.
Three of the pieces were on display at the museum until the end of the month.
‘Conquering Chaos’ pays homage to Oshun the African goddess of love, beauty and grace whose calm and unwavering presence rises above the chaos of the world.
“She stands as a symbol of the divine power within all women to remain grounded and true, even in the face of severe external turbulence,” said the Grade 12 student. “The contrast between her serene aura and the chaotic backdrop reflects a profound truth – harmony and strength are born from within, no matter the challenges that surround us.”
‘Take Me Deeper’ is a powerful tribute to Oya, the African goddess of transformation, embodying the infinite potential of change and universal connection.
“I am very big on spirituality,” Dedier said. “That is how I was raised. This piece represents the universal connection we get through meditation. This piece symbolizes the sacred power of breath, thought and spoken word to align with the universe’s energy and shape reality. The vibrant textile design on the woman’s lips represents the life force within each of us, the ability to turn intention into action and energy into transformation. This artwork invites you to embrace your role in the ever-evolving flow of life, recognizing your unique power to create, connect and inspire in a world of limitless possibility.”
‘ALA’, the 17-year-old said, is a powerful tribute to the resilience, wisdom and strength of Black women, embodying the essence of African heritage and spirituality.
“Her headwrap, crafted from authentic African textiles and shaped to resemble the African continent, is a profound symbol of humanity’s ancestral roots and the divine feminine force that inspires creation and transformation,” she said. “The three bands on her sleeve reflect the interconnected realms of physical, spiritual, and universal consciousness, celebrating the courage and grace required to over-
come adversity. I learned how to sew the traditional dashiki clothing in a way that works with my piece and I attached it to give it that cultural aspect.”
The collection is available as fine art, museum-grade and limited edition Giclee prints, ensuring its reach extends beyond galleries into the hands of art lovers.
“I create not just for myself, but for my community,” said Dedier. “Art is a way to tell our stories, honour our roots and build a future where we are seen and celebrated. Through my art, I want to build a movement that shows people we are all connected. Each piece is a step closer to that vision.”
Introverts make for better creatives because most of their work requires solitude and deep focus.
“I am a shy person, but I found that art is the one medium I could use to express myself and connect with others without the need for words,” said Dedier who admires the work of late American painter Paul Jackson Pollock who was a leading exponent of abstract expressionism. “Art is my voice when words fail me. It is how I express what I feel, what I see and what I hope for in the world.”
Where does the talented artist find inspiration?
“It comes from within and how I am feeling,” Dedier said. “Every art piece I make has ties to my feelings and emotions. This collection was inspired by female empowerment and me wanting to learn more about my culture. I am not just creating paintings. I am creating conversations. I want my art to make people feel, think and connect in ways they never have before.”
While art is not seen sometimes as a conventional career path, her parents know the value of creative careers and encouraged their daughter to pursue her dream.
“Their belief in me gave me the courage to pursue art,” Dedier said. “They remind me daily that imagination is just as powerful as logic and art is a reflection of that truth.”
Dedier is enrolled in Unionville High School in which the Arts Unionville program has eight specialized arts courses for artistically talented students in visual arts, dance, music and drama.
“I am extremely proud of our daughter,” said Toni-Marie Ferreira who is a Toronto Catholic District School Board educator. “She has been doing art for a while and it is nice to see her come into her own and gain an understanding of what she likes about art and the messages she tries to portray. We helped her recognize that this can be a career and she is set on being her own boss.”
After high school, Dedier will pursue a double major in Business and Art at Western University.
The five-year program combining a Bachelor of Arts Honours with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the Ivey Business School is a unique blend of a strong arts foundation and world-class business education preparing graduates to become leaders in a wide array of industries, including entertainment and finance.
“We have been to the campus multiple times and I like the environment,” said Dedier who aspires to own a fine arts business and be a motivational speaker. “In this program, you do all mediums of art. Pair that with Ivey’s renowned business program, I have the best of both worlds.” Individuals interested in purchasing Dedier’s art pieces can contact her at avajasmineartistry.com.
MediashoothighlightspioneersofT.O.’ship-hopscene
tour. “We ended up doing it around 12.15 p.m. at which point the light started to come across the top of the building. I didn’t give myself enough time for that. I assumed I would be done by noon if everyone was there by 11.30. It did not work out that way. Also, people wanted to hang out and chat. We took a break for people to talk and take photos.”
For multi-award-winning DJ, Host & Event Specialist Mel Boogie, it was a balancing act handling work and the shoot.
“I could not get time off from my job and I was not going to miss being part of this photograph,” the Polaris Music Prize Juror said. “While I was waiting for them to get everyone together, I was in my car working. It is essential we document our hip-hop history and I was honoured to be part of this shoot.
our own founding mothers and fathers of the culture in Canada. It was awesome to be part of the day in hip-hop, highlighting Toronto’s pioneers and recognizing our chapter in this history book.”
Winston ‘Styles’ Searles of the pioneering ‘Intrikit’ breakdancing crew said he was honoured to be a participant.
“We are proud to have contributed to the global scene and I am pleased that this aspect of Canadian history is now being documented for posterity,” he said.
Juno-award-winning rapper Tona was also thrilled to be invited.
“It was an excellent day to build comradery with those involved,” said the artiste who won a Juno in 2015 for ‘Best Rap Recording’. “Hip-hop stories in this city need to be told and documented from many perspectives so it stays refreshed.”
“To have the people who directly inspired me or helped me to be the type of artiste I am as well as my peers who I shared the spotlight with in one place was amazing,” said the b-boy dancer, graffiti writer, emcee and independent record label owner.
‘A Great Day in Toronto Hip-Hop’ is included in ‘The Culture: Hip-Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century’ exhibit that is grounded in the origin of the music genre in the United States, with a focus on art and music for the last two decades.
Some elements of Canada’s hip-hop culture are part of the exhibition that runs until April 6 at the Art Gallery of Ontario.
that and do amazing things. I am looking forward to what comes next.”
D’Amico-Cuthbert also acknowledged the AGO for embracing the art form.
“For a long time, Canadian culture has not been open to hip-hop culture and the way that local people in Toronto have intervened and transformed not just culture at large, but the city,” she said. “Toronto hip-hop is responsible for the city being renamed T-Dot and The Six. So much of how this city brands itself is because of hip-hop and yet, for the longest time, institutions have had their doors closed.
“We tend to look at New York City as where it all started and forget that we have
Jeff ‘Spade’ Duke, the brother of film director/producer/writer Alison Duke who is in the photo, felt he was among royalty.
“For the AGO to create a space for local Black art is huge,” said Nichols who, in 2016, presented his first solo exhibition, ‘Kushe’, at the Black Artists’ Network in Dialogue (BAND) gallery. “It is an important step and new beginning. It leaves room for those that come later that may expand on
“What the AGO has done, which sets itself apart, is that it has changed the way we tell the story of hip-hop.
“What Patrick’s photo does and so many of the works that are locally based do is say hip-hop culture is and has always been about community. It is not only or uniformly about celebrity and the mainstream. To widen the frame is very important.” CONTINUED FROM Pg. 9
AVA JASMINE DEDIER
May 11 - 17, 2025
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Financial or medical matters will change quickly on the 11th and 12th, leaving you dependent on your intuition, experience and ability to gather information. Keep up with the trends. Refuse to let outside influences or incomplete information lead to poor decisions, overreactions or indulgent behaviour. Physical activity, networking and competitive challenges will allow you to explore and show what you can do on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Let your actions be your voice, and you’ll gain the respect of your peers and the confidence to go the distance. Romance and physical improvement are favoured. A professional or financial pivot is apparent on the 16th and 17th. How you operate and what you achieve will determine your destiny. Common sense, controlled emotions and a healthy, positive attitude will help you advance.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Let your heart, emotions and foresight guide you on the 11th and 12th, and you’ll find comfort in knowing you have taken the path that soothes your soul. Don’t expect everyone to be on board with your choices, but what matters is that you are happy with the outcome. Dealing with institutions or facing medical, financial or legal concerns will require patience and understanding on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Monitor how others react before you choose sides or decide what direction you should take. Opportunity is apparent, but it may not align with the masses. Step outside your comfort zone, even if it means not following the crowd. You’ll get the green light on the 16th and 17th. Shoot for the stars and embrace the changes conducive to making your dreams come true.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): A steady pace forward is in your best interest on the 11th and 12th. Refuse to let outsiders interfere with your choices or use emotional manipulation to guilt you into something that benefits them more than you. Uncertainty signals you to hold tight until you are confident to move. Use your charm to get your way on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Your actions will reinforce your knowledge, experience and confidence that you are heading in a favourable direction. Refuse to let opposition deter you from finishing what you start. Trust in yourself and your ability to get things done. Someone will be eager to teach you a lesson or disrupt your plans on the 16th and 17th. Do your research, plan and move forward secretively to avoid interference.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Go after your dreams on the 11th and 12th but do so with reserve. The time to make a big splash is when you have everything in place. Look for a place to launch, promote and market your offer. Listen to criticism and praise; don’t allow anyone to exploit you. Keep pressing forward on the 13th, 14th and 15th, and let your work speak for you. Value yourself and your skills, and so will those you encounter. Set the stage for success, and opportunities will follow. Personal gain is heading your way. Let your mind wander on the 16th and 17th. Participate in an event or activity that connects you to people who share your interests, and you’ll meet someone with whom you can share the experience.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): On the 11th and 12th, revisit your plans, direction and lifestyle before you jump into something that could backfire. Partnerships and professional offers are not as simple as they appear. Question and get whatever you want in writing before making a move. Keep gathering and learning information on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Revisit old ideas and administer new concepts to ensure you are current with trends before sharing your plans. Networking will lead to opportunities to connect with someone who has something to contribute to your success. Take advantage of any opportunity to further your professional agenda on the 16th and 17th. Attend a seminar or trade show that offers insight into a unique way to use your skills. A change will give you a new lease on life.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.22): Ask questions to find out where you stand on the 11th and 12th. Keep an open mind and be willing to work with others to avoid disruptive interactions that set you back instead of helping you move forward. A positive attitude and compromise are your passage to a better future. Indulgence, excessive spending and overreacting will stand in your way on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Pool your resources and direct your energy into taking care of unfinished business that requires physical endurance and strength, and you’ll dissipate any anger or
stress you harbour. Participate in something that pleases you on the 16th and 17th. Challenge yourself to a robust match amongst friends. Social events, travel or going on a learning expedition will satisfy your soul and help you find inner peace.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Pay attention on the 11th and 12th. Listen to your body, watch the financial markets and be cognizant of your relationships with others. Joint ventures appropriately handled can be a blessing. However, wrongly dealt with, they’re a disaster. Compassion and understanding will help you work through any problem you face on the 13th, 14th and 15th. A positive attitude and charm will win over even the most challenging adversary, putting you in a position to make a difference in how you move forward. Love and personal gain are within reach. Staying focused on the result on the 16th and 17th will make dealing with the minor setbacks you face easier. Home improvements, investing in yourself and your dreams, and upgrading your health regimen are all favoured.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You stand to gain ground on the 11th and 12th, no matter what you decide to conquer. Let your emotions and sensitivity toward others lead the way, and the response you receive will encourage you to go the distance, follow your heart and strive for the happiness you desire. Be careful not to make promises you cannot deliver on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Simplify your life, use common sense and stick to what will suffice. Focus on self-improvement instead of trying to change others. On the 16th and 17th, a partnership or joining forces with friends, relatives or those who share your grievances, will help you achieve your goals. Communication, protests and forming coalitions that empower you will pay off.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Work undercover on the 11th and 12th to avoid interference. The changes you want to implement require fine-tuning before you display your intention. Discipline and hard work will produce the desired results and give you the confidence to shoot for the stars. On the 13th, 14th and 15th, an opportunity to indulge in playful banter with someone special will encourage redefining your relationship or push you in a direction that offers improved living conditions. Don’t sit back when love and personal improvement are within reach. Take a closer look at your routine, work ethic and happiness on the 16th and 17th. If you are overdue for a pivot, check the job market and consider what skills you require to move in an uplifting direction.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Participate in events, organizations and communities that stimulate what you are trying to achieve on the 11th and 12th, and you’ll connect with those who can help you reach your goal. A networking event will change how you envision your life unfolding and encourage you to make a positive change. On the 13th, 14th and 15th, you’ll gain insight into an innovative plan that motivates and stimulates personal growth and opportunities to incorporate something you enjoy doing into how you earn your living. Keep the momentum flowing and discuss possibilities, and you’ll gain the support required to follow through. Get out, mingle and learn from those in key positions on the 16th and 17th. The insight you gain will help you implement changes at home that make your life easier and your aspirations attainable.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take a moment to think your plans through before you make a move on the 11th and 12th. You may desire change, but doing so prematurely will lead to setbacks. Bide your time, map out the best route and enforce common sense and practicality. Pay attention to where your money goes on the 13th, 14th and 15th. Winging it won’t get you very far; do your due diligence before you make promises or implement something that needs refinement to stay within budget. Romance and personal growth are in your best interest. Be a good listener on the 16th and 17th; you’ll discover what you need to know to make your dream a reality. Short
trips, reunions and debates will be eye-opening. Maintain a positive attitude and a generous spirit.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): On the 11th and 12th, review your finances, revisit your long-term plan and change what isn’t working for you. Discuss your plans with those your changes affect and give them a platform to contribute their thoughts. Build unity, not division, and something good will unfold. Take a moment to rethink your plans on the 13th, 14th and 15th, and put a workable budget in place. Don’t let temptation or your emotions take over when practicality is necessary to achieve your goal. A change of scenery will give you a different perspective on life, love and prospects. Engage in something that broadens your vision regarding possibilities on the 16th and 17th. The more you know, the easier it will be to do what’s best for you.
The program ‘opened me up to a world of possibilities’
annual gala on February 22 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Toronto.
The young scholars have access to personal and professional development courses via a curated LinkedIn Learning Path and they engage in executive fireside chats with successful business leaders and take part in employer discovery sessions with recruiters and decision-makers from some of Canada’s largest firms, including Bell, Hyundai Auto Canada, BMO, PwC, CIBC, National Bank, HOOPP, OPTrust, Home Depot, OTPP, Eli Lilly Canada, Air Canada and TD.
In addition, they can go to a job board with hundreds of co-op placements, internships and full-time opportunities offered by Onyx’s partners and a LinkedIn group that is exclusively for scholars to engage with each other and share insights, information, advice or inspiring personal stories.
York University Schulich School of Business final-year student Ramla Elmi learned about the program in 2021 through a friend who is an Onyx graduate.
Born in Canada, she spent her formative years in Egypt before returning to pursue higher education.
“When I learned that Onyx is a community that supports Black students, I jumped at the opportunity because that is what I needed at the time,” Elmi said. “I enjoyed the networking sessions and the job board was beneficial because it is an exclusive pathway.”
Through the program, she secured a four-month IT Risk Management internship at Mackenzie Investments in 2023.
Young people who make a positive impression during their internship often have a good chance of being offered full-time employment.
Human Resource professional Dwight Gayle, who was with Mackenzie at the time, was Elmi’s mentor.
“When I applied for a job with them and got an interview, one of the first things the interviewer said is, ‘We heard good things about you’,” she said.
Since August 2023, Elmi has been a Cybersecurity Analyst with Mackenzie Investments, one of Canada’s largest investment management firms.
Gayle said his mentee is an outstanding student who is keen on pursuing opportunities that impact her personal and professional development.
“She quickly embraced the responsibilities of the role, sought and acted on feedback and made a significant impact on the team,” he added. “Her passion to learn and grow and her commitment to making a key contribution will see her making significant strides in her career.”
Buoyed by the Onyx experience, Elmi – who aspires to be a Software Engineer – is an Onyx Ambassador at York University.
“It is such a joy for me to tell students about my Onyx experience and promote the program,” the 2025 Onyx Scholar Award recipient said.
The award is presented to a student who is passionate about Onyx’s mission and vision, takes advantage of various career success resources, possesses proven leadership and is a genuine collaborator, among other things.
Part of Onyx’s unique experience is participating in webinars and interactive sessions focused on resume writing, honing interview and pitch skills, mental health and well-being, and transitioning into the workforce.
After completing her undergraduate degree at the University of Manitoba, Chimdinma Chijioke needed help enhancing her resume. The Onyx Initiative provided her with that assistance and more.
“The program opened me up to a world of possibilities,” said the University of Manitoba Black Students Union Co-founder who majored in Political Science and minored in Asian Studies. “I did not know what my career would look like or what I could aspire to be. Through the fireside chats with Black professionals and employer discovery sessions, I was like, ‘Wow, I could do a lot career wise’.”
Chijioke came to Canada at age 15 as an international
student from Nigeria.
“I didn’t know the ropes when I got here,” she said. “Everything was new. Getting into the Onyx program set me up for success, including a career. I am so excited and grateful for that opportunity. The sense of community and belonging I have found has been instrumental in my personal and career development. Onyx is a gamechanger for me.”
Chijioke enters McMaster University in September to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) specializing in finance.
Over 1,000 young people have been exposed to the Onyx Initiative since its inception in 2020.
The window for new applicants, which opened in January, closes next month with the launch of the sixth cohort.
“The Onyx Initiative is more than just a program,” said alumna Jania Husbands-Jackson who is an Environmental, Social & Governance and Sustainability Co-ordinator at Colliers. “It supports and provides us time to figure things out, helping to light a path to a future I never thought was possible.”
With far too many Black and racialized students missing out on professional opportunities in corporate Canada because of a paucity of social networks and mentorship, serial entrepreneurs Wayne and Nigela Purboo launched the groundbreaking initiative after the unprecedented social unrest wave following George Floyd’s murder in May 2020.
They wanted to send a clear message to Canadian businesses that qualified and ambitious Black candidates exist.
“Nigela and I felt we had to respond with more than a donation to a worthy cause,” Wayne Purboo said. “This event touched us in a way like no other. We began to contemplate how we can have a generational impact on the Black community. We wanted to build something that could be sustainable, lift the Black community and be a valuable asset to Canada.”
In the wake of Floyd’s murder, many companies across various industries took action to show support for racial justice and inequality.
In response to recent political and social pressure, some have reversed course on diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI)-related policies and pledges.
That does not sit well with the Purboo family which is awarding $5,000 to four Black students annually to assist with their academic expenses.
“For too many reasons to name, the attack on DEI is so heartbreaking to Wayne and me, partially because of the challenges we have faced with inherent bias and discrimination on our journeys,” Nigela Purboo said. “This unfortunate reality is still prevalent and impacts our sons, nieces, nephews and other loved ones as well as the many hardworking, intelligent and highly qualified scholars who are investing their time and money to earn and learn the necessary skills to have access to opportunities, not be given opportunities. The ancestry of all immigrant families, regardless of race or ethnicity, is built on hard work, determination and earning our way…
“DEI is not about giving opportunities to people who are not qualified. It is about ensuring that people who are more than qualified are not excluded based on race, gender, religion, disabilities or sexual orientation. DEI is in alignment with merit-based hiring and not in opposition to it.
“We have said many times before that we started Onyx with the hope that one day this organization will not be needed because the recruitment, hiring and promotion
practices in Canadian society and globally will be based on merit and not means, skills and not the school you graduated from, ambition and not just access to the right people. No one values a system of meritocracy more than the underserved who, contrary to the belief of some, are not undeserving.”
Onyx presented awards to several of its partners. McMaster University was the recipient of the Education Award, the Community Award was presented to King’s Trust Canada and OPTrust and CIBC were recognized with Employer honours.
There is a reason why Onyx Volunteer Award winner Dwight Rodgers is passionate about giving back.
When he and his family arrived in Hamilton in the early 1990s, they didn’t know anyone or anything about their new surroundings.
“It was the first time I had travelled on an aircraft and I felt isolated and overwhelmed when I got here,” said Rodgers who is an advisory board member of the Pan African Credit Union that is seeking regulatory approval. “I cried and told my parents I wanted to go back to Jamaica. In my four years at McMaster, I don’t think I had someone I could call a friend. Years later, I thought about how much difference it would have made if I had someone to help me negotiate a new country. That is when I decided I had to help someone else, whether formally or informally. Knowledge is power and if I could help a young person clear a few hurdles, why not do it?”
A mentor-mentee relationship works when both sides are committed, open and willing to learn from each other.
“I gave perspective and not direction,” said Rodgers who attended Campion College in Jamaica and played soccer with Hamilton Steelers in the Canadian Soccer League. “If you are an introvert, I can’t give you a strategy that may work with an extrovert. The first question to my mentees is ‘What are you looking for in this relationship’?”
For businesses to sustain and grow, they must evaluate a range of factors.
The Onyx co-founders understand that and are proactive.
“Specifically, we would like to grow our team and the number of scholars we admit into the program to bring in more applications from students and recent graduates outside of Ontario and raise awareness amongst both high school graduates and first or second-year post-secondary students about the importance of joining our program to get their foot in the door early,” Nigela Purboo added.
“This is so important since insights from our employer partners and our research confirm that corporate Canada is more inclined to select candidates that come from their internship pool. Also, we want to continually raise Onyx profile to attract more corporate partners from a wider range of industries as well as educational and community partners who can support our efforts in reaching our ideal scholars. It truly takes a village. So, the more like-minded and empathetic allies that we bring into the fold, the better.”
By providing expertise and strategic guidance, advisory board members are crucial to the success of an organization.
Onyx has some of the well-connected and brightest minds at their disposal, including George Brown College president Dr. Gervan Fearon, PwC Partner Angela Yoo, Bell Canada Senior Vice President Jennifer Pavlov, BMO Financial Group Chief Inclusion Officer Vanessa Lewerentz, TD Bank Group Senior Manager Sharon Chung and Toronto Metropolitan University Chancellor Donette Chin-Loy Chang.
CelebratingBlackjoyandmentalwellness
The Black Joy Art Initiative celebrates joy and mental wellness practices within the Black community. Created by University of Toronto PhD student, Mercedes Sobers, as a counterbalance to her dissertation work on Black mental health access and disparities, this exhibition shifts the focus to strengths, resilience and joy, providing a platform for Black voices and experiences.
The exhibition invites participants to reflect on their mental wellness, share practices that foster mental health and engage in discussions on improving mental wellness. Join us for the opening of The Black Joy Art Initiative
Exhibition at Hart House, University of Toronto. Experience powerful photography and videography that visually represent wellness practices, along with interviews featuring members of the Black community at the University of Toronto, where they share how they define and cultivate mental wellness in their everyday lives.
The Exhibition will be open for viewing from May 1 – May 30, 2025 (7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.) at Hart House, 1st floor hallway, 7 Hart House Circle with a launch event on May 15 (5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.) at Hart House, East Common Room 7 Hart House Circle.
