“Beyond the obvious privacy concerns lie deeper implications for human autonomy and social organization. When every transaction requires digital authentication, cash becomes obsolete. When physical presence can be verified remotely, freedom of movement diminishes. When identity becomes inextricably linked to state-approved digital credentials, dissent becomes technically possible, but practically impossible....”
STORY - PAGE 8
The moment our Woman Empowered received the life-changing call, time seemed to stand still. “It feels like yesterday. I remember when they told me I was on Zoom, I tried to be respectful of my neighbour, but I let out a shriek.” That shriek would echo through Toronto’s West End, marking the beginning of a journey that would take this local baker from her family kitchen to the national spotlight on Season 9 of The Great Canadian Baking Show.
In the diverse world of Canadian baking, Zoë Weinrebe’s story stands out for the deep cultural roots that flavour each and every one of her creations. Her journey begins in the most sacred of spaces; a family kitchen in Parkdale, where as a child, while her sister played, young Zoë watched her father cook and bake with mesmerized attention.
“I lived in the West end of Toronto with my dad and sister, and while my sister was playing, I was watching my dad cook,” she recalls, her voice carrying the warmth of those memories. These early moments were about Zoë absorbing a philosophy of food that would shape her entire approach to baking.
Like many of us who find our calling early, Zoë Weinrebe’s passion was nurtured by the glowing screens of Food Network. “My early influences were from the Food Network. I loved the process of it, and then sharing the food after, and seeing the reaction.” This cycle of creation, sharing, and witnessing joy would become the cornerstone of her baking identity. a feedback loop of emotional connection that transforms simple ingredients into vessels of memory and meaning.
What emerges in conversation with Zoë is a profound understanding of baking as both science and art. “I like the challenge of sticking to the chemistry of baking. When you are cooking a meal, you can improvise, with baking you can’t do that. When you lock down a recipe you can then experiment with it.” This disciplined approach to creativity reveals a mind that respects boundaries even as it seeks to transcend them, a balance that would serve her well under the pressure of the baking show tent.
As she speaks, she transports us back to her childhood, to moments of discovery that now seem prophetic. “My mind goes back to being 11 or 12 and
melting dark chocolate and adding fruit and freezing it. I was making tempered chocolate and didn’t know it. I remember making layered cake, and strawberry fruit cake. My dad loved it.”
These were bonding rituals that strengthened the ties between father and daughter. “I would always bake cakes with dad, and he knew I had a big interest in it. I was a creative kid and would always mess up his kitchen. We would have a loveable, but intense session.” In these “intense sessions,” we see the birth of a baker who understands that the best creations come from passion.
What’s particularly striking about Zoë’s journey is the winding path that led her to this moment. With a degree in political science from Ryerson University and initial thoughts of a law career, she seemed destined for a very different kind of public service. “First it was political science, then I thought about a law career. I love telling stories visually, and marketing honoured that.” This pivot toward visual storytelling and marketing reveals a mind that understands the power of narrative, a skill that would prove invaluable in the high-stakes storytelling of competitive baking.
Identity plays a central role in Zoë’s baking philosophy. “My dad is Jamaican, and came to Canada when he was 27, or 28. Being a mixed race can be very confusing, and I hope a young woman will see herself in me.” In these words, we hear the weight of representation and the responsibility she feels to others who might see themselves reflected in her journey. It’s a burden she carries gracefully, transforming personal complexity into universal connection.
When asked about her experience on the show, Weinrebe is quick to contextualize it within a lifetime of baking, not just a moment of television fame. “Being on the show was a lot of hard work. I don’t see this as just a year, and then ending up on the show, it is a culmination of my years of baking.” This perspective reveals the depth of her commitment and the authenticity of her craft.
For viewers tuning in this season, Zoë promises something fresh and boundary-pushing. “You can look forward to some of my personality, which is to push boundaries and break the rules a little bit, no disrespect to previous seasons, but this season is something else.
You can see all different walks of life doing their thing.” This spirit of innovation, tempered with respect for tradition, epitomizes the evolution of Canadian baking itself.
Beyond her personal ambitions, Weinrebe sees her participation as part of a larger movement toward diversity in the culinary world. “I would love to do more of that, I think that we could use more women of colour in this space.” It’s a vision of inclusivity that extends beyond the tent, into kitchens and living rooms across the country.
Perhaps the most revealing insight into Zoë’s approach comes when she describes the connection she forged with the audience through her baking. “I had to bring the audience on my journey when I was sharing my bake, and that was one of the best parts of the season.” This ability to transform a technical process into a shared experience speaks to her understanding that baking, at its heart, is about community.
As our conversation draws to a close, Zoë reflects on the significance of this chapter in her life with a wisdom that belies her years. “It has been a journey for me, one I am proud that I went on, and I look forward to doing even more of this.”
For those watching Season 9 of The Great Canadian Baking Show, Zoë Weinrebe represents more than just a contestant; she embodies the richness of Canadian baking. Her journey from a Parkdale kitchen to the national stage reminds us that the most meaningful creations often begin with love, memory, and the courage to share one’s story.
As you tune in to watch Zoë and her fellow bakers compete this season, consider the stories behind the bakes: the family traditions, the cultural heritage, and the personal journeys that shape each creation. Perhaps, inspired by her example, you might find yourself in your own kitchen, creating something that connects you to your past while sharing it with your community. After all, as Zoë Weinrebe demonstrates so beautifully, baking is about who we bring to the table.
SIMONE SMITH
What if I told you that one-third of our nation is silently suffering? That beneath our polite Canadian exterior lies a mental health crisis so profound it threatens our collective future.
New research from the University of Ottawa’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health has unearthed disturbing truths about our national psyche that we can no longer afford to ignore.
The numbers are staggering. Over 38% of Canadians now show symptoms of depression, with one-third experiencing anxiety. These averages mask a more sinister reality. Indigenous and racialized communities face a mental health burden up to 18 times greater than others, a disparity not of biology, but of circumstance.
Why are some minds crumbling while others remain resilient? The answer lies in an uncomfortable truth that challenges our national identity; racism is a psychological poison.
When researchers examined the data more closely, they discovered patterns that should concern every Canadian. Indigenous peoples report nearly 50% depression rates, with: Arab, Asian, and Black communities following closely behind.
Young people across all racial groups show even higher vulnerability, with Indigenous women experiencing the highest rates at 54.1%.
The research reveals something our society has long suspected, but rarely acknowledged; discrimination fundamentally alters brain chemistry and psychological functioning. Those experiencing “very high levels of everyday racial discrimination” were nearly seven times more likely to suffer from anxiety.
Seven times. This is about the human stories behind them. Imagine carrying that weight every day, knowing that the colour of your skin, your heritage, your very identity places you at significantly higher risk for mental anguish. How does that shape your worldview? Your interactions with institutions? Your ability to thrive?
What is perhaps most surprising is that being born in Canada (a fact many assume would confer advantage) actually correlates with worse mental health outcomes for racialized individuals. This finding challenges our assumptions about belonging and protection in our own country.
The implications extend beyond individual suffering to our collective future.
As Dr. Jude Mary Cénat warns, “Our findings should sound the alarm on the societal mental health crisis Canada is facing, which will only be exacerbated as social and economic disparity continues.”
Here’s where hope enters the picture. The same research that illuminates the problem also points toward solutions. The Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health represents a new approach, one that recognizes the complex interplay between: biological, social, and cultural factors in
mental health.
Their work demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and culturally competent care can begin to address these disparities. It’s not enough to simply acknowledge the problem; we need targeted interventions that recognize the unique experiences of different communities.
The path forward requires courage at every level: from individuals examining their biases, to institutions reforming their practices, to governments implementing anti-racist policies. As the research clearly shows, resilience alone cannot compen-
sate for systemic discrimination. What role will you play in addressing this crisis? The first step might simply be acknowledging that behind these statistics are real people: our neighbours, colleagues, friends, and family members, whose minds and spirits are burdened by circumstances beyond their control. Join us in demanding a national mental health strategy that recognizes the psychological impact of racism and provides equitable, culturally appropriate care for all Canadians. Mental health is the foundation of our collective wellbeing.
I n t ro d u c i n g W S N ’s h y b r i d m o d e l s e r v i c e s
S u p p o r t i n g s u r v i v o r s w h o h a v e e x p e r i e n c e d a n y f o r m o f
s e x u a l t r a u m a , i n c l u d i n g s e x t r a f f i c k i n g
W h a t d o w e o f f e r ?
I n d i v i d u a l c o u n s e l l i n g
G r o u p c o u n s e l l i n g
C a s e m a n a g e m e n t
2 4 / 7 C r i s i s l i n e
V i r t u a l d r o p i n - We d n e s d a y s
n o a p p o i n t m e n t n e e d e d
H o w d o I a c c e s s s e r v i c e s ?
I n p e r s o n a n d v i r t u a l l y
O n l i n e c h
6
If you are a survivor, are at risk of human trafficking or sexual violence and need someone to talk to, we are here to support you!
Come speak privately one-on-one with our support workers.
Individuals are seen on a first-come basis Wednesdays, 5:00 - 7:00PM Register for the Zoom link Via Eventbrite!
As Thanksgiving weekend arrives, many of us are preparing to gather with family, share food, and reflect on what we’re thankful for. Yet, gratitude isn’t something that should be reserved for just one long weekend in October. It’s something we can choose every single day, in how we speak to others, how we face challenges, and how we see the beauty in our everyday lives.
Life in Toronto moves fast. Between work, commuting, caring for family, and keeping up with rising costs, it can feel like there’s barely a moment to breathe. But when we pause long enough to notice the little things— the warm smile of a stranger, the laughter of children playing, the scent of a home-cooked meal—gratitude starts to find its way back into our hearts. And once it does, it changes the way we see everything.
For those of us from the Caribbean community, this time of year can be both heartwarming and nostalgic. The cool autumn air may be a far cry from the tropical warmth of home, but the feeling of togetherness that comes with Thanksgiving is something we understand deeply. Whether you’re from Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, Guyana, Grenada, or any of the islands, our culture has always been rooted in giving thanks—not just when life is easy, but especially when it’s not.
Many of us grew up hearing our elders say, “Give thanks for life.” Those simple words carried the weight of generations who knew what struggle felt like but refused to let it harden their hearts. Gratitude was never about perfection; it was about perseverance. Our parents and grandparents taught us to find blessings even when circumstances weren’t ideal—to make a meal stretch, to laugh through hardship, and to share with others no matter how little we had.
This Thanksgiving, many Caribbean families across the GTA will gather around tables filled with both traditional and island favourites: turkey and stuffing sitting beside jerk chicken, curry goat, macaroni pie, or callaloo. The dishes may differ, but the spirit remains the same—it’s about connection, love, and appreciation. It’s about saying, “We made it through another year.”
But gratitude doesn’t only live at the dinner table. It lives in the auntie who checks in on everyone, the friend who drops by unannounced just to make sure you’re okay, and the neighbour who lends a helping hand. It lives in the churches, community centres, and local businesses that continue to give back despite their own challenges. Gratitude is the heart-
beat of our community—it keeps us humble, connected, and hopeful.
In today’s world, it’s easy to be consumed by what’s missing. We scroll through social media and see endless comparisons— bigger houses, fancier vacations, curated perfection. But when we focus too much on what we lack, we forget how much we already have. Gratitude helps us see differently. It turns “I have to” into “I get to.” It reminds us that even in difficult times, we are surrounded by blessings that money can’t buy—love, faith, friendship, and community.
Our Caribbean community has always understood resilience. We’ve built lives far from the islands, raised families, and made a home here in Canada while still holding on to our roots. That balance between past and present is something to be grateful for. It’s what gives our culture its richness and our people their strength. Every steelpan beat, every Sunday dinner, every church service filled with song reminds us that our traditions are alive and thriving—even thousands of miles from where they began.
This Thanksgiving, as we gather, let’s take time to reflect on the journey—how far we’ve come and how many sacrifices were made along the way. Let’s give thanks for the elders who laid the foundation, for the young people carving their own paths, and for every friend, neighbour, and relative who adds meaning to our days.
And when the weekend is over, let’s keep that same spirit alive. Gratitude shouldn’t fade once the leftovers are gone. It should guide us through the colder months ahead— helping us see warmth in simple gestures, comfort in community, and faith in the future.
Sometimes we think gratitude is about grand gestures, but often it’s about quiet reflection. It’s about finding joy in a cup of tea on a cool morning, in a phone call from someone you love, or in the sound of old calypso music that makes you smile. It’s about being present enough to notice life as it happens.
So this Thanksgiving, and in all the days to come, give thanks for life. Give thanks for love, for health, for laughter, and for every person who has touched your journey. Gratitude is what turns ordinary days into blessings—and when we live with that mindset, every day becomes a little more meaningful.
From my heart to yours, may your Thanksgiving be filled with love, good food, good company, and endless reasons to be grateful.
SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
Today marks the release of the Economic Freedom of the World: 2025 Annual Report, a comprehensive analysis that goes beyond traditional economic metrics to reveal something deeper about how societies function. As someone who has witnessed both Jamaican and Canadian communities navigate economic challenges, I find this year’s findings particularly revealing.
The report ranks 165 countries based on five key areas: rule of law, property rights, sound money, freedom to trade internationally, and regulatory
burden. These are the building blocks of community wellbeing.
What caught my attention immediately? The stark contrast between nations at the top and bottom of the rankings. Countries in the top quartile boast an average GDP per capita of $66,434 and life expectancy of 79 years. Meanwhile, those in the bottom quartile struggle with just $10,751 per capita and a mere 62 years of life expectancy.
These numbers tell a human story. They represent parents wondering how to feed their children, communities grappling with preventable diseases, and young people facing limited opportunities. The infant mortality rate alone is nearly ten times higher in the least free countries, a statistic that should haunt our collective conscience.
Hong Kong maintains the top position despite recent declines, while the United States ranks 5th. Canada sits at 11th, the UK at 13th. More concerning, global economic freedom has been de -
clining since 2020, with COVID-19 policies erasing nearly a decade of progress.
The report’s analysis of Trump’s tariffs offers a cautionary tale. These policies would drop the United States from 56th to 76th in freedom to trade, potentially pushing it out of the top 10 in overall economic freedom. This is about how protectionist policies can ripple through communities, affecting everything from job security to food prices.
Perhaps most fascinating is the connection between economic freedom and other aspects of human flourishing. The research reveals that economically free societies: enjoy better health outcomes, greater political freedom, and even higher educational achievement. This shouldn’t surprise us; when people have the freedom to make economic choices, they gain agency in other areas of life as well.
For racialized communities and marginalized groups, these findings car-
ry particular weight. Economic freedom can serve as a powerful tool for breaking cycles of poverty and creating pathways to prosperity. Yet, we must also acknowledge that true freedom requires addressing systemic barriers that have historically limited economic participation for many.
The data challenges us to think beyond traditional political divides. It invites us to consider how policies that expand economic opportunity might simultaneously: strengthen community bonds, improve health outcomes, and foster greater social cohesion.
What will you do with this information? I encourage you to examine how economic freedom manifests in your community. Start conversations with neighbours about how local policies either enhance or limit economic opportunity. Most importantly, consider how you might support institutions and initiatives that expand economic freedom for all members of our society.
PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The annual United Achievers Club (UAC) Scholarship Awards shone a light on what community, perseverance, and leadership look like in action. For nearly 40 years, this Brampton-based organization has championed Black and Caribbean students, raising their profile and investing in future leaders who will shape Canada’s tomorrow.
President Joyce Temple-Smith captured the spirit of the evening. “These young scholarship recipients are part of a vanguard of future professionals and tradespeople who will keep our society running. Parenting has always been a very hard job. Tonight reflects some of the hard work you’ve put in.”
Mayor Patrick Brown echoed that sentiment. “We celebrate the achievements of 18 remarkable students whose commitment to academic excellence and community service has earned them well-deserved recognition. Since 1985, the UAC has awarded more than
460 scholarships. For four decades, the UAC has been a driving force in raising the profile of Black and Caribbean communities while fostering pride, resilience, and cultural understanding.”
Journalist Neil Armstrong emceed the night, introduced by Hyacinth Lindo. Entertainment included a dynamic performance by Liberty Silver with two powerhouse vocalists. The keynote, delivered by actor, musician, and educator Sean Mauricette, inspired with wit, wisdom, and poetic energy.
Community awards were presented by Marjorie Taylor and Marva Hemmings, with special recognition given to Tom Allain for decades of service to the Kiwanis Club of Brampton.
Educational leaders also offered words of encouragement. Dr. David Green, Chair of the Peel District School Board, commended seven recipients from PDSB schools, while Dr. Marianne Mazzorato, Director of the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, celebrated ten winners from her board. Both emphasized how student success reflects the collective effort of educators, parents, and mentors.
This year’s 18 awardees represent: resilience, talent, and ambition. Their fields of study span: nursing, business, psychology, design, and more:
• Emmanuel Alexander-Small – Humber College, Community Integration through Cooperative Education
• Saneea Clarke – Humber College, Business Administration
• Savannah Gentles – University of Toronto, Humanities
• Aleyah Graham – Carleton University, Honours B.Sc.
• Rayven Guthrie – University of Ottawa, Honours Bachelor of Nursing
• Rachel Herlidan – Wilfrid Laurier University, Honours B.Sc. Psychology
• Arianna Malcolm – University of Toronto, Life Sciences, Human Biology
• Monique Manhertz – University of Guelph, Business Management
• Serena McKenzie – Humber College, Industrial Design
• Jada Mitchell – Wilfrid Laurier University, Kinesiology, Psychology minor
• Chukwudumebi Onakufe – University of Windsor, Honours Bachelor of Nursing
• Asheenu Shelley – Humber College, Social Service Worker
• Immanuel Shine – Wilfrid Laurier University, Business Administration
• Jaeden Spencer – Wilfrid Laurier University, Accounting and Economics
• Kallai Thomas – OCAD University, Experimental Animation
• Ashley Umoru – Western University, Social Sciences
• Arianna Whyte – University of British Columbia, Bachelor of Arts
• Jekhi Wollaston-McNeil – York University, Psychology
The Scholarship Awards Selection Committee including Peel Regional Police Sergeants Kirk Williams and Kamor Balogun, Kiwanis leader Tom Allain, and UAC members, reviewed applications and chose the most qualified recipients. The Education Committee Planning Team and dedicated volunteers made the night possible.
Sponsors included Drs. Darlene and Matthew Weekes, Peel Regional Police (BISN), Co-operators Insurance, and community supporters like: Mrs. Jennifer Cave-Williams, Mohany Seniors’ Group, Kathy Adekoya, and Sharma Knowles.
Dr. Darlene Weekes shared an inspiring message: “You’ve shown great commitment to your studies and community. Your foundation and hard work will support you as you pursue your goals. Remember those less fortunate and seek opportunities to lead.”
The UAC’s longstanding work continues to inspire not just scholarship winners, but the entire community. These scholarships are more than financial support; they represent cultural pride, generational investment, and the belief that education fuels lasting change.
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The other day, I scrolled past a video of “Echo Hunter,” a full AI-generated short film. This is a recent sci-fi short where all visuals are AI-generated. Only after reading the comments did I discover it was entirely AI-generated. That moment of hesitation, that brief pause in my scrolling, that’s precisely what the creators wanted.
These AI-generated creations live in that unsettling space between believable and absurd. They are designed to catch your attention and hold it just long enough to generate engagement, and in today’s digital landscape, your attention equals revenue.
As someone who has been studying this technology, I am frustrated by what I am seeing. We as a community have to do better. This technology isn’t going anywhere, and we need to understand how to navigate it.
Fact-checking looks different in
2025. With AI, it’s not just about what you are reading, or seeing, it’s about how it makes you feel. Amused by a clearly fake ASMR video? That is harmless, but feeling distressed by a news clip you can’t verify? That is where the real danger lies.
Here’s how to spot the AI slop in seconds:
• In writing: Quality AI writing can be difficult to distinguish from human writing, but low-quality AI content reveals itself through repetitive sentence structures, overconfident presentation of fabricated facts, and a complete lack of personality. If it’s boring to read, it probably came from an algorithm.
• In images: AI images have improved dramatically, but telltale signs remain. Look for distorted hands, or limbs, unnaturally perfect skin textures, inconsistent lighting and shadows, and emotionally manipulative content that demands sharing. Always check the comments, they often reveal the truth.
• In video: AI-generated videos can be even trickier to spot. Watch for lipsyncing issues, mismatched sound effects, jittery, or “melting” motion (especially around hands), unnaturally darting eyes, odd looping movements, and completely impossible
scenarios.
Why does this matter beyond simple annoyance? A recent MIT study found something alarming: using AI to write essays significantly reduces brain activity, particularly in regions responsible for: attention, planning, and memory. The research showed a 47% drop in neural engagement among ChatGPT users, with 83.3% unable to remember sentences they “wrote” with AI assistance. Even more concerning, this cognitive decline persisted even after stopping AI use.
The essays produced with heavy AI assistance were consistently described as “soulless” and lacking depth, precisely because they were missing the human element that makes writing meaningful.
The internet will always have its share of fast, cheap, and weird content. Your job is to recognize when you are engaging with it and why. AI slop can be entertaining, but it can also distract us from reality and diminish our critical thinking skills.
If it smells like slop and scrolls like slop, it’s probably slop. Let us commit to staying sharp, questioning what we see, and preserving our cognitive independence in an age of artificial everything. Your mind deserves better than becoming dependent on algorithms that profit from your attention.
michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Google is backpedaling. After years of banning voices for so-called misinformation and disinformation, the tech giant has quietly admitted what critics have long suspected; its censorship went far beyond pandemic “safety.” Now, Google says it will reinstate accounts it once silenced.
The announcement came in a document released to the House Judiciary Committee, where Google’s attorney revealed the company had rolled back certain speech policies. Those policies (once justified as public health measures) extended into politics, public debate, and civic discourse.
The timing isn’t random. Google has faced a year-long investigation into its practices, and critics argue the company is only changing course, because it got caught. Had lawmakers not pressed for answers, this admission would likely never have surfaced.
YouTube, Google’s sister platform, is also now promoting its sudden interest in “free speech.” The reversal feels less like a true apology and more like parole. Users whose accounts were permanently banned can now apply for reinstatement.
The irony isn’t lost on the pub -
lic. Commentators compare the process to a parole hearing, where creators must prove they are “safe” enough to rejoin the platform. That includes high-profile voices like former FBI Deputy Director Don Bongino, counterterrorism advisor Sebastian Gorka, and political commentator Steve Bannon figures labeled as dangerous by YouTube only a few years ago.
“YouTube values conservatives’ voices on its platform,” the company claimed in its official statement. The declaration would sound sincere if not for the fact that those same voices were erased during a time when millions of accounts disappeared under vague accusations of spreading misinformation.
Google admitted that its censorship extended beyond U.S. government pressure. Company lawyers acknowledged that outside forces influenced its content rules, though they declined to specify who those forces were. This revelation raises an unsettling question: who else has been giving Google orders to silence speech?
The Biden administration isn’t the only suspect. Courts have also pointed to “jawboning,” a practice where governments pressure private companies to suppress speech under threat of regulation. Canada, for example, has embedded sweeping hate speech restrictions into almost every corner of public life. Meanwhile, Europe’s Digital Services Act adds further obligations, which Google says places a heavy burden on U.S. companies.
The bigger issue: Google has shown a willingness to bend to any government power that threatens its global
operations. That leaves users wondering whether this shift toward free speech is genuine, or simply a legal tactic to avoid harsher scrutiny.
Despite the evidence, America’s highest court refused to hold Google and YouTube accountable. Instead, a lower court condemned their behaviour, comparing their actions to an “Orwellian Ministry of Truth.”
Still, the damage is done. Millions of accounts were erased during the pandemic. Countless scientists, professors, and medical professionals, many of whom now argue the COVID-19 narrative was exaggerated, or false, lost their platforms, reputations, and livelihoods.
Yet, Google isn’t offering apologies, or compensation. Instead, it’s presenting reinstatement as an “opportunity” for users to return. For many, this feels less like reconciliation and more like humiliation.
Google’s policy reversal is framed as progress, but it also highlights how fragile free speech has become in the digital age. When one corporation controls who speaks and who stays silent, democracy itself weakens.
Censorship became a tool of control, used by governments and corporations alike. While Google may appear to soften now, its track record suggests this shift is about survival, not principle.
The real question isn’t why Google banned these voices in the past. It’s why the company wants them back now. Until Google accepts accountability for its role in silencing dissent, its claims of valuing free speech will ring hollow.
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“Without it, you won’t have a legally recognized identity. You won’t have rights. You won’t be able to access services, work, or participate in society.”
The rain slicked the Toronto streets as Maya pressed her forehead against the glass door of another government building, her reflection showing desperation. Inside, officials sat behind computers, indifferent to her plight. At 68, she had lived a full life as: a teacher, mother, and community volunteer, but today, she was invisible, a non-person in the digital ecosystem that had replaced her country.
“I’m sorry, Mrs. Chen,” the clerk said without looking up. “Without digital ID verification, we cannot process your pension application. The system requires biometric authentication.”
Maya’s hands trembled, “But I’ve been coming here for thirty years. Everyone knows me here.”
The clerk finally met her eyes, a flicker of sympathy quickly replaced by bureaucratic resignation. “The old system is offline. It’s digital ID, or nothing. That’s just how it is now.”
Outside, Maya joined others huddled under awnings: seniors, those with certain religious objections, technology holdouts, and privacy advocates who had refused the digital implant. They formed a growing underclass, unable to access healthcare, banking, or government services. They were the unconnected, living in a digital shadow state that most Canadians never saw, because the system was designed that way.
What few Canadians realize is that our government’s quiet push toward digital ID isn’t happening in isolation. It’s part of a coordinated global framework aligned with Agenda 2030’s sustainable development goals. While marketed as a solution to identity theft and inefficiency, the system serves a deeper purpose; comprehensive data integration that will eventually govern every aspect of human activity.
The official narrative speaks of convenience, security, and inclusion. The unspo -
ken reality involves creating an infrastructure where every: transaction, movement, and interaction becomes traceable, trackable, and controllable. This is documented in government procurement documents and international partnerships that rarely make headlines.
When I first began investigating this trend, I approached it with journalistic skepticism, but as I dug deeper, interviewing privacy advocates, former government officials, and technology experts, a pattern emerged that disturbed even my experienced understanding of how policy evolves.
What is most fascinating about the digital ID implementation strategy is how it exploits fundamental aspects of human psychology. The approach creates what psychologists call an “information gap.” We’re told just enough to feel informed while critical details remain obscured, driving us to fill the gaps with assumptions that usually favour the proposed system.
The marketing relies heavily on storytelling techniques that transport us to a future of effortless interactions, where: banking, healthcare, and government services flow seamlessly. This narrative bypasses our rational analysis and appeals directly to our intuitive brain’s desire for simplicity and order.
The information is presented in carefully “chunked” pieces: small, digestible announcements that don’t overwhelm our cognitive processing. Each step seems reasonable on its own: digital driver’s licenses, enhanced passport systems, online verification for government services. Only when viewed collectively does the full architecture emerge.
Emotional triggers are masterfully deployed. Fear of identity theft and fraud activates our primitive brain’s survival instincts. The promise of security and convenience appeals to our neocortex’s logical processes. Meanwhile, social proof and authority bias lead us to accept what “experts” and “other developed countries” are doing.
Looking internationally reveals both the possibilities and perils of digital ID systems. Estonia’s e-ID demonstrates remarkable efficiency and citizen empowerment. India’s Aadhaar system shows how quickly such infrastructure can expand beyond original intent. China’s social credit system illustrates the endpoint of comprehensive digital identity governance.
Across the Atlantic, the United Kingdom is quietly transforming its relationship with citizen identity through a digital ID system that, while framed as voluntary for most services, carries a stark mandatory core; with-
out it, legal employment becomes impossible. Under the government’s plan, employers will be required to verify a worker’s right to hold a job exclusively through digital ID, effectively phasing out traditional methods like National Insurance number checks. This creates an invisible wall where those who refuse, or cannot participate (whether due to privacy concerns, lack of technology access, or principled objection) are locked out of livelihood itself.
While officials promise alternatives for the digitally excluded, critics warn that the system inherently marginalizes vulnerable populations: the elderly, those with disabilities, low-income communities, and individuals without smartphones, or stable internet.
Beyond the immediate barrier to work, the digital ID infrastructure threatens to expand into a pervasive tool for monitoring daily activities, linking biometric data to financial transactions, movement, and even online speech. This mirrors global patterns where digital ID systems, initially marketed as conveniences, gradually enable state and corporate surveillance under the guise of security and efficiency, raising urgent questions about autonomy in an era where participation in society is increasingly conditioned on surrendering to digital verification.
What connects these seemingly disparate implementations is their shared foundation in data integration and the gradual elimination of anonymous transactions. Each system creates what experts call “function creep” expanding beyond original purposes to encompass new functions never initially disclosed to the public.
The Canadian approach follows this pattern, beginning with voluntary applications for specific services while building the infrastructure for eventual universal implementation. The COVID-19 vaccine passport system served as both trial and precedent, demonstrating how quickly Canadians would adopt digital verification for everyday activities.
Beyond the obvious privacy concerns lie deeper implications for human autonomy and social organization. When every transaction requires digital authentication, cash becomes obsolete. When physical presence can be verified remotely, freedom of movement diminishes. When identity becomes inextricably linked to state-approved digital credentials, dissent becomes technically possible, but practically impossible.
The most vulnerable populations face the greatest risks. Those without reliable technology access, digital literacy, or official documentation find themselves increasingly
excluded from essential services. Meanwhile, the system creates new possibilities for discrimination and control that are technically neutral but practically biased.
During my investigation, I spoke with a former government security consultant who requested anonymity. “The public discussion focuses on the wrong questions,” they told me. “We debate whether the system will be mandatory while ignoring how it will inevitably reshape power relationships in society. Digital ID is about creating a new framework for human interaction that prioritizes administrative efficiency over individual autonomy.”
This isn’t an argument against all digital innovation, or against solving legitimate problems with identity verification. The current system has real flaws that leave people vulnerable to fraud and exclusion. A welldesigned digital ID system could potentially enhance security while expanding access to services.
The critical question isn’t whether digital technology can improve identity management; it clearly can. The question is whether we will implement these systems with meaningful democratic oversight, robust privacy protections, and respect for human autonomy. Will we design systems that serve citizens, or ones that citizens must serve?
As communities, we need to develop greater media literacy around these issues. We must look beyond marketing narratives to examine implementation details, legal frameworks, and technological architecture. We need to ask who benefits, who pays, and what happens when things go wrong.
The conversation around digital ID is about what kind of society we want to become. Do we value convenience over privacy? Security over freedom? Administrative efficiency over human dignity?
These questions are being answered right now through: policy decisions, procurement processes, and technological infrastructure development, with remarkably little public input, or awareness.
Maya’s story shouldn’t become our collective future. The challenge before us is to harness technology’s benefits while preserving fundamental rights and values. It’s a delicate balance that requires vigilance, participation, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity in an increasingly digital world.
The door is still open for meaningful public engagement. The question is whether we will walk through it before it closes for good.
11th and 13th, 2025. The results, released on September 24th, reveal a clear truth: most Ontarians blame Doug Ford’s Conservative government for starving schools of resources. They don’t blame trustees.
The Abacus Data poll highlights the public’s frustration:
• 57% say the main problem is underfunding, not school board trustees.
OSSTF and ETFO estimate that underfunding has cost schools $1,500 per student. Since Ford took office in 2018, funding hasn’t kept up with inflation, or enrollment growth. The damage, they say, is permanent unless the government reverses course.
Public education in Ontario has faced years of cuts, and the cracks are now impossible to ignore. Teachers’ unions like the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FESSO) have long sounded the alarm. CUPE Ontario (the province’s largest union with more than 300,000 members) has joined them, demanding answers.
A new Abacus Data poll, commissioned by CUPE Ontario, surveyed 2,000 voting-age Ontarians between September
• 51% believe Ford’s government has shortchanged schools by billions since 2018.
• 57% agree trustees provide local accountability and a voice for parents.
• 56% say eliminating trustees won’t add more educational assistants, early childhood educators, or smaller class sizes.
• 46% believe the Ford government is manufacturing controversy to distract from its poor record.
These findings echo years of warnings. The
Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario, put it bluntly, “Ontarians know the biggest problem for education is provincial underfunding. The cuts hurt students, schools, and education workers, not local trustees. In fact, Ontarians value trustees as democratic representatives of parents and communities.”
Joe Tegani, President of CUPE’s Ontario School Board Council of Unions (OSBCU) and an educational assistant himself, shared his concern, “Students and the educators who support them are at a breaking point. It’s time for Premier Doug Ford to listen to workers. Parents know the problem, and they are not buying this attempt to scapegoat trustees.”
Survey respondents expressed anger at Ford’s latest push, eliminating school boards. Many said they would rather see Education Minister Paul Calandra fired than lose elected trustees. Hahn called this an attack on democracy itself, “People see through this power grab. Ontarians would rather remove the minister than eliminate trustees who give parents a real voice.”
The poll suggests Ford’s strategy has backfired. Instead of shifting blame, it has spotlighted his government’s own failures.
The consequences are already visible. Larger class sizes, fewer supports for kids with special needs, crumbling schools, and burned-out staff. Underfunding shapes Ontario’s future workforce and society.
Parents, educators, and unions share a unified message; stop scapegoating, start funding. Unless the Ford government changes course, Ontario’s children will continue to pay the price.
The air was electric at Toronto’s Avant Garde Gallery on September 28th, 2025, where I witnessed something extraordinary unfold. As someone who has navigated both the fashion world and community organizing for years, I can tell you this was where: culture, commerce, and community collided in the most beautiful way possible.
My good friend Nathaniel FraySmith, Co-Creator and Executive Director of Sundé Social, shared a simple idea, “What if we created a space that truly celebrates African, Black, Caribbean, and Diasporan talent?” Fast forward to today, and that seed has blossomed into the 5th Annual Fashion Brunch, a full-circle moment that left me breathless.
What makes this event different? It’s the raw authenticity pulsating through every stitch, every design, every conversation. Unlike mainstream fashion events that often feel exclusive and detached, Sundé Social’s Avant Garde Fashion Show operates on three powerful pillars: Community, Education, and Exposure.
As I moved through the gallery, I couldn’t help but notice the contrast between the elegant models getting ready to strut with confidence on the runway, and the bustling marketplace where Blackowned businesses flourished. This duality, high fashion meets accessible commerce, creates something magical. It’s democratizing style in a way I have rarely seen in our city.
“I was in Yorkville, and a lady came up to me, and was borderline harassing me about my jacket. She was that impressed,” designer Jason Burke of Fraternity Brand shared in an interview. This chance encounter sparked his journey into fashion design. “A light bulb went off in my head, and I returned to the store, bought out the fabric, and made more jackets.”
Stories like Jason’s remind me why this work matters. Behind every garment is
a narrative of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. When we support these designers, we are investing in dreams and sustaining our community’s economic vitality.
What surprised me most about this year’s event was the deliberate accessibility. Marketplace entry was completely free from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing anyone to discover Toronto’s vibrant African Caribbean-owned businesses without financial barriers. Meanwhile, spectator tickets for the fashion show created an intimate experience for those seeking the full runway spectacle.
The integration of brunch, live music, and art transformed what could have been a standard fashion presentation into a multisensory celebration of African Caribbean excellence. I found myself swept up in the energy, connecting with old friends and making new ones. The live painter added another layer of creativity, her canvases capturing the vibrant energy of the day in real-time.
As I reflect on the day, I am struck by how Sundé Social has built a movement. Their ongoing commitment to fostering networking, resource sharing, and creative collaboration within the ABCD community
demonstrates a profound understanding of what sustainable empowerment looks like.
The 5th Annual Fashion Brunch was about where we are heading as a community, and if the passion I witnessed last Sunday is any indication, our future is incredibly bright.
“Behind the glamour, the real magic happens,” one volunteer told me as we watched models prepare for their final walk. “From the fitting room to the final strut, it’s the dedication and heart of everyone involved that brings this vision to life.”
As I left the gallery, still buzzing from the day’s energy, I found myself wondering, what stories will emerge from next year’s event? Which undiscovered designer will capture our imagination? How will this community continue to grow and evolve?
One thing is certain; I will be there to witness it, write about it, and celebrate it, because in a world that often tries to diminish our light, events like the Avant Garde Fashion Show remind us of: our brilliance, our resilience, and our undeniable style. That, my friends, is a trend that will never go out of fashion.
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
On Friday, September 26th, 2025, Toronto welcomed one of its own home. Family, friends, and community filled A Different Booklist for the launch of Dr. Asha Jeffers’ new book, Against! Rebellious Daughters in Black Immigrant Fiction in the United States. The evening marked the return of a scholar whose work reshapes how we understand identity, migration, and rebellion.
Jeffers, recently tenured as an Associate Professor of English and Gender and Women’s Studies at Dalhousie University, stood in front of her parents and supporters, reflecting on her roots. “Toronto shaped my intellectual and personal growth,” she told the audience. The city, she explained, gave her the foundation to write a book that moves beyond her doctoral thesis into new and urgent territory.
Her research focuses on literature
centering children of immigrants (the second generation) and how gender shapes their experience. This book builds on that passion. Unlike her academic dissertation, Against! takes a broader look at the narratives of daughters who: resist, rebel, and redefine what it means to live between cultures.
Jeffers draws on the works of: Paule Marshall, Edwidge Danticat, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Taiye Selasi. Through their stories, she explores how race, gender, ethnicity, and migration collide to form a unique pattern of rebellion. These characters refuse the roles assigned to them by family, community, or society at large.
During the event, Jeffers answered questions from the moderator with candor. She explained her motivation: to highlight the tensions Black immigrants face in the United States. Many are forced to navigate between the “model minority” expectations imposed on immigrants, and the respectability politics shaping African American life.
She put it plainly, “By showing how Black migrants and their children negotiate these pressures, we begin to understand rebellion not as destruction, but as survival.”
The book unfolds across six sections:
• Introduction: Against
• Chapter 1: Rebelling in the In-Between
• Chapter 2: Rebelling Against Repetition
• Chapter 3: Self-Destructive Rebellion
• Chapter 4: Rebelling Against Stereotypes and Confinement
• Conclusion: The Failure of Immigrant Blackness
The structure makes her argument clear; rebellion takes many forms, and each speaks to the fractured, layered experiences of immigrant daughters.
Audience members at the launch didn’t just listen. The room buzzed with dialogue about: family, gender, and migration. Listeners shared their own reflections, moved by the themes Jeffers brought forward. The evening felt less like a lecture and more like a conversation, one that affirmed the power of storytelling to shift perspective.
On the back cover, the description captures the essence of the work: “Immigrant and second-generation writers mobilize complicated familial relationships to comment on political, social, and psychic contexts.” Jeffers makes the case that these characters exist in a “Problematic space between two competing worldviews.”
The book has already earned endorsements from respected scholars. Erin Khue Ninh, author of Passing for Perfect: College Imposters and Other Model Minorities, calls Against!, “Important scholarship and bold literary criticism.” She praises Jeffers for balancing critique with empathy, avoiding the extremes of sentimentality. Angeletta KM Gourdine, author of The Difference Place Makes: Gender, Sexuality and Diasporic Identity, highlights the book’s originality, “Jeffers demonstrates how rebellious immigrant daughter characters push back against respectability and create their subjectivity within and against model-minority discourse.”
At its core, Against! challenges simple categories. It refuses to see Black immigrants as either fully absorbed into African American life or detached from race altogether. Instead, Jeffers shines a light on the messy, complicated in-between, where rebellion often begins.
For the Toronto audience, the launch was recognition that scholarship can speak to lived experience. In Jeffers’ work, readers see themselves, their families, and their struggles. Her homecoming proved that rebellion, on the page and in life, can be a bridge to understanding.
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
As an entertainment journalist who has seen Toronto’s social scene evolve over the decade, I thought nothing could surprise me anymore. That changed the moment I walked through the unassuming red door on Commercial Road. Instantly, I was transported temporarily. The 80’s wrapped around me like a familiar blanket, awakening memories I had not realized were dormant.
The air buzzed with energy as Depeche Mode, and Madonna filled the space. Guests in power suits with shoulder pads and neon accessories mingled, their laughter creating a soundtrack that complemented the era-defining music. AVC’s “Back to the Future” event was a masterclass in experiential storytelling.
I watched as Joycelyn David’s eyes reflected the event’s neon lights, capturing the essence of what made this evening extraordinary. Joycelyn, the visionary behind AVC and Tulong Technologies, understands something profound about human psychology. We are drawn to experiences that make us feel, that transport us beyond our everyday reality.
The DeLorean photo station was a portal that allowed attendees to become part of the narrative. What fascinated me most was watching how the environment transformed guests. Professionals who entered with reserved demeanors soon found themselves striking poses in the time machine, their guarded expressions melting away to reveal genuine joy.
This emotional alchemy is precisely what Joycelyn discusses in her new documentary and her book, “The Multicultural Mindset.” The evening demonstrated how cultural intelligence (what Joycelyn terms Multicultural Quotient) can be harnessed to create meaningful connections across differences. In a world increasingly divided, her work offers a blueprint for building bridges through understanding.
As I sipped my cocktail, surrounded by 80’s memorabilia that triggered forgotten
memories, I realized something profound; Joycelyn and her team at AVC had created and crafted an experience that spoke simultaneously to our rational minds and emotional hearts. The exclusive performances, and release of her documentary maintained anticipation throughout the evening, while the executive networking happened organically, facilitated by shared experience rather than forced interaction.
Guests from diverse backgrounds found common ground in their appreciation for the era’s culture, creating authentic connections that transcended typical networking boundaries. When Joycelyn took the stage to introduce her documentary, the room fell silent. It gave guests a glimpse of her life, and some of the challenges she faced as a young Filipina in Canada. In a chat with her after the documentary debut, she shared that one of the best parts of making the documentary was that she had a chance to work with her two nieces. It was an emotional moment for her, and I was happy to be able to share that moment.
Her passion for multicultural marketing and cross-cultural business leadership was palpable. As she spoke about transforming from effective leaders into global changemakers, I saw heads nodding in rec-
ognition.
Joycelyn’s journey, from acquiring AVC in 2019 to founding Tulong Technologies in 2023, represents a new paradigm in multicultural marketing. Her recognition as one of the “Most Influential Filipinas in the World” and her companies’ inclusion in the Globe and Mail’s “Top Growing Companies” list speak to her effectiveness in bridging cultural divides in business.
Walking back through that red door at evening’s end, I carried more than memories of a well-executed event. I left with a renewed understanding of how emotional intelligence and cultural awareness can transform how we connect as humans. The AVC team had succeeded in creating an immersive experience; they had demonstrated the power of cultural intelligence in action.
You have an opportunity to experience this transformation too. Whether you’re a C-suite executive, entrepreneur, or rising professional, developing your Multicultural Quotient is essential. Take the first step by exploring Jocelyn David’s work and considering how your own cultural intelligence might be the key to unlocking new possibilities in our interconnected world.
W. GIFFORDJONES MD
DIANA GIFFORD-JONES
TC HEALTH COLUMNIST
Why do so many women ignore one of the most obvious warning signs of uterine cancer? It’s a cancer that usually announces itself early, but women wait, or brush off the warning signs, and that allows the disease to take hold.
to yell the warning signs from the rooftops.
Each year, thousands of women in Canada and tens of thousands in the U.S. are diagnosed, and the numbers are climbing. Yes, we’re living longer. But there’s another culprit: obesity. You may not know this, but in addition to the ovaries, fat tissues actively produce estrogen. Too much estrogen is like fertilizer that keeps making the lining of the uterus grow. Research shows obesity can triple the risk.
lining thicken for a possible pregnancy. Progesterone usually balances this growth, but when it’s absent, or insufficient, the lining can grow too thick, or irregularly. Over time, this increases the chance that abnormal cells will form, and some can become cancerous.
That’s why women who never have children, or who don’t breastfeed, are at higher risk. Pregnancy and breastfeeding both give the uterus a long holiday from estrogen. It’s also why hormone therapy after menopause must be handled carefully. Estrogen on its own increases risk, but combined with progesterone, it can be safe. Other risks, like taking tamoxifen for breast cancer, or inheriting genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome, can’t be avoided, but they do mean vigilance is even more important.
Diagnosis isn’t complicated. An ultrasound can measure the thickness of the uterine lining, but the most reliable test is a biopsy, done in a quick office procedure. If the results aren’t clear and bleeding continues, more investigation is needed. This is where women must be their own advocates. Too many walk away reassured when they shouldn’t.
Caught early, uterine cancer is highly curable. Surgery to remove the uterus, sometimes along with the fallopian tubes and ovaries, is often enough. If the cancer is more advanced, radiation, or chemotherapy may follow. For younger women who want children, hormone therapy can sometimes delay surgery. The key is catching the cancer before it spreads.
Uterine cancer, also called endometrial cancer, is not rare, and it can strike anyone. Anne Bancroft, the Oscar-winning actress best known as Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate, died of this disease. She never spoke publicly about her illness, a missed opportunity to build greater awareness, and where are the public health campaigns to prevent it?
A recent study points to another concern. Researchers found that women who frequently use chemical hair straighteners have more than double the risk of developing uterine cancer. Why? Possibly because of hormone-disrupting chemicals absorbed through the scalp. Are Black women, who use these products most frequently, advised by their salons of this danger?
Other risks are harder to avoid. Women who start menstruating early, or reach menopause late, spend more years with estrogen acting on the uterus. Estrogen itself isn’t the enemy. It’s essential for reproduction. Each month it makes the uterine
Uterine cancer is one of the cancers that almost always sends a signal. The red flag is bleeding. Before menopause, if periods suddenly change, get heavier, or if bleeding happens between cycles, don’t let anyone brush off the incident. After menopause, even a single spot of blood is abnormal.
Don’t wait for someone to make uterine cancer their cause célèbre before getting active with prevention and early detection. Maintain a healthy weight. Don’t let strong chemicals seep into your scalp, and above all, never ignore abnormal bleeding, before or after menopause, not even one drop.
Uterine cancer needs a champion
MICHAEL THOMAS
michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Canada’s federal government approved more than $190 million in bonuses for Crown corporations in 2024–25, while ordinary Canadians waited in food bank lines to feed their families. The numbers reveal a widening gap between taxpayer sacrifices and executive rewards. So, who cashed in? Let’s unpack the list
The biggest payouts
The Business Development Bank of Canada walked away with the largest bonus pool, $60.7 million. Every executive received a payout, averaging $216,000 each.
Export Development Canada awarded $45 million to its executives, with
nearly 80% pocketing bonuses that averaged $143,000.
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), an agency that claims its mission is “housing affordability for all,” issued $30.6 million in bonuses. Almost every executive (99%) collected, with the average at $43,000.
The Royal Canadian Mint disbursed $12.1 million, though records didn’t include executive-specific details.
At VIA Rail, every executive collected a bonus averaging $110,000, totaling $11 million. This, despite the railway posting a $385 million operating loss last year and receiving $1.9 billion in government bailouts over the last five years.
The Canada Infrastructure Bank issued $8.6 million in bonuses, with 83% of executives receiving an average of $197,000 each.
Other Crown corporations, including Canada Post and the National Capital Commission, reported “nothing to disclose” for the period.
A pattern of spending
These numbers surfaced through a question
filed by Conservative MP Andrew Scheer. They aren’t new. Between 2015 and 2023, federal departments and agencies approved $1.5 billion in bonuses. Shockingly, these payouts flowed even though less than half of performance targets were met in the same year, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO).
The trend points to a troubling reality: bonuses roll out even when outcomes fall short.
The taxpayer bill
To understand the real cost, I spoke with Franco Tarrazzano, Federal Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. His warning was blunt.
“There should be a five-alarm siren in the Prime Minister’s office to end the debtfilled spending spree,” he told me. “Taxpayers already cover more than a billion dollars every week in interest charges.”
That interest alone adds up to $55 billion this year—the equivalent of $1,300 taken from every Canadian just to service debt.
Tarrazzano argues the problem isn’t revenue, it’s reckless spending. “The government has added 99,000 bureaucrats since
2016 and ballooned the cost of bureaucracy by 77%. Do Canadians see 77% better services?”
Carney’s Canada
Prime Minister Mark Carney pitched himself as different from Justin Trudeau. Yet, Tarrazzano says Carney plans to borrow even more. That choice, he warned, locks Canadians into decades of repayments. “If this continues, interest charges will reach $80 billion by 2030,” Tarrazzano said. “Your children and grandchildren will be Generation Screwed.”
A bigger question
The controversy raises a moral question: who benefits when wealth grows?
Globally, 58 million people are millionaires, about 1.5% of the world’s adults. As author and church leader Marvin Ashton once asked, how many use their wealth wisely for the public good? Statistics don’t exist for that.
The same question now faces Canada’s leadership. If public money funds private rewards, can ordinary Canadians trust their government to act in the national interest?
Toronto’s Caribbean community is buzzing with energy this season, from: parents pioneering new opportunities for youth, to churches raising spirits through gospel, to cultural innovators keeping our history alive, and even big moves at City Hall. Here are four can’t-miss highlights you should have on your radar this month.
Jamaican Parent in Brampton launch robotics team to inspire youth
For Jamaican Canadian parent Era Mae Ferron, the importance of education is a legacy. Growing up, her Jamaican father instilled in her that education opens doors that nothing else can. Now, as a mother of three, Ferron is carrying that same legacy forward by investing in the next generation through STEM.
This fall, Ferron and her husband, Brandon Merenick, launched Brickstorm, a new FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL) Challenge rookie team in Brampton. The program gives children ages 9–12 the chance to explore robotics, engineering, and teamwork in a hands-on way, while keeping costs low so families from all backgrounds can participate.
The team meets every Saturday at their residence until January 2026, with the goal of competing in a local tournament and laying the foundation for a permanent Brampton-based team.
“As parents of three boys, we know how costly extracurricular programs can be,” said Ferron, the team’s lead coach. “STEM opportunities are powerful, but they’re often priced out of reach for many families. When I discovered FLL, I realized this could be a way to open doors for more children in our community.”
Running the team this season will cost about $4,000. To keep the program accessible, Brickstorm is appealing to local businesses for sponsorship and has already secured its first supporter: Data Solutions Consulting Inc. in Brampton.
Manager of Marketing Maria Mehkari, herself a former FLL participant, said the program was “life-changing” for her as a student. “It ignited my passion for technology and problem-solving from
an early age,” she said. “What excites me most about this rookie team is knowing these kids will gain those same lessons, not just how to build robots, but how to work together, overcome challenges, and see what’s possible when they believe in themselves.”
For Ferron, Brickstorm is about representation and opportunity. “Caribbean parents, like my father, always believed in giving us a better life. I want Brickstorm to be a part of that tradition: opening doors, showing our kids that STEM is for them, and building a stronger community together.”
Families contribute only $50 per child for the entire season thanks to sponsorships and donations, keeping financial barriers low. Contributions can be cash or in-kind support such as laptops, team tshirts, or healthy food for practices.
With support, Ferron hopes Brickstorm will become a long-term fixture in Brampton, inspiring future innovators and showing Caribbean youth across the GTA that they, too, can lead in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.
Community members and businesses interested in supporting Brickstorm can reach out at:
Email: info@bramptonFLLteam.com
Website: www.bramptonFLLteam.com
Social Media - Facebook & Instagram: @brampton.lego.robotics
Gospel Concert at The Church of the Nativity – October 18th, 2025
Hosted by The Church of the Nativity -10 Sewells Rd. (just one block east of Neilson) Join us for an uplifting evening of music, praise, and celebration at our Gospel Concert on Saturday, October 18th at 6:00 p.m. Featuring performances by:
• Susan G and Friends
• The Nativity Choir
• Idara Abasi Dance Group…and many more inspiring acts!
• Tickets: $30.00
For more information, contact the church office at 416-284-2728 We look forward to welcoming you for a night of joy and spiritual connection. On behalf of The Church of the Nativity 416-399-8141
Kaiso Street Society Launches “Calypso in the Air”: A Sonic Takeover for Calypso History Month
This October, Kaiso Street Society (KSS) invites audiences across Canada and the Caribbean to tune in, turn up, and celebrate
Calypso like never before. The collective launched “Calypso in the Air,” a monthlong audio and media campaign designed to infuse community spaces, radio waves, and digital platforms with the vibrant sounds and stories of Calypso.
Through curated playlists, live performances, podcast episodes, and online content, the campaign highlights Calypso’s power as both cultural memory and cultural movement. Each week features fresh ways for audiences to experience the music, from learning its history to dancing to its future.
“Calypso isn’t just nostalgia—its ethos is alive, evolving, and speaking to today’s world,” says Jesse Ryan, musician and founder of Kaiso Street Society. “There is history there, across the diaspora, and there is history here, in Canada. Calypso in the Air brings both stories to the forefront.”
The campaign will feature weekly themed playlists tailored for community spaces such as: cafés, bookstores, and cultural hubs. Ryan will also co-host four podcast episodes with ‘Mr. Wonderful’ on JAZZ.FM91, diving into the genre’s roots and tracing its diasporic journey. The project aims to uncover Calypso’s hidden Canadian stories. While the genre is often celebrated in its Caribbean birthplace, few realize that the music has left a lasting imprint here in Canada, from the global stage of Expo ‘67, to the creation of Caribana where Calypso became the soundtrack of a new cultural era.
In 2002, the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) declared October as Calypso History Month, a celebration that has since taken root across the Caribbean diaspora, including here in Canada. Calypso in the Air carries this legacy forward with a distinctly diasporic lens, linking four cultural hubs: Toronto, Montreal, New York, and London. Together, these threads form a living tapestry of sound and story, amplifying Caribbean voices worldwide and affirming that Calypso’s rhythm and resistance are not only preserved but continually reimagined, traveling across borders to inspire new generations.
Calypso in the Air launches Friday, October 3 with a virtual event on their YouTube page youtube.com/@KaisoStreetSociety and on their Instagram @ kaisostreetsociety. The campaign will run from October 1st through to October 31st, 2025.
City of Toronto announces 2026 Bud-
Today, Councillor Shelley Carroll (Don Valley North), Chair of the Budget Committee, announced the launch of the City of Toronto’s 2026 Budget consultations. For a third consecutive year, the city is inviting residents to help shape Toronto’s Budget by completing an online survey and attending one of six in-person or virtual consultations.
Online survey
Until Friday, October 31st, Toronto residents can complete an online survey at www.toronto.ca/budget. The survey is available in 12 languages: English, French, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Farsi, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil and Urdu.
In-person and virtual consultations
A total of six consultations will be held across Toronto and online:
In-Person Consultations
• Tuesday, October 14th, 7 to 9 p.m., St. Lawrence Market North, Market Hall, 92 Front St. E.
• Saturday, October 18th, noon to 2 p.m., Etobicoke Olympium, Large Gym, 590 Rathburn Rd.
• Wednesday, October 22nd, 7 to 9 p.m., North York Memorial Hall, Burgundy Rooms A & B, 5110 Yonge St.
• Thursday, October 23rd, 7 to 9 p.m., Scarborough Civic Centre, Rotunda, 150 Borough Dr.
Virtual Consultations
• Monday, October 27th, noon to 2 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 29th, 7 to 9 p.m.
Members of the public can register to attend an in-person or virtual consultation at www.toronto.ca/budget. For accessibility support, contact engagement@toronto.ca or call 416-392-5398.
The city is working with community partners to facilitate community-led consultations with: Black, Indigenous, equity-deserving communities and youth across Toronto. The consultation results will inform decision making at the City and ongoing discussions with the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada to build a strong financial future for Toronto. A summary will be provided to the Budget Committee at its first meeting on Thursday, January 8th, 2026, and will inform the Mayor’s proposed budget, which will be released by Sunday, February 1st, 2026.
MICHAEL THOMAS
michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is preparing to update the warning labels on acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol. The move comes after ongoing debate about whether prenatal exposure to acetaminophen could be linked to neurological conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The FDA’s decision highlights a question that has circulated for years: does acetaminophen pose a hidden risk to developing brains? While some studies suggest an association between prenatal exposure and ASD, researchers have not confirmed a direct causal link.
Even so, U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in with his own warning. “Don’t take Tylenol. Don’t take it. Fight like hell not to take it,”
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
he told the public. His comments sparked criticism from medical experts who argue that making such claims without evidence is reckless and harmful.
Focusing solely on Tylenol, or Trump misses the bigger story: autism is rising, and minority families are bearing the heaviest burden. Autism prevalence has grown across the board. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study found ASD is 3.4 times more common in boys than girls. It also revealed that rates are higher among: Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous children compared to White children.
Data from PubMed Central adds more depth. In 2017, 2.05% of Black children had an ASD diagnosis compared to 2.30% of White children. By 2021, that gap closed; 4.01% of Black children were diagnosed, nearly matching the 3.89% of White children.
What makes these findings significant is that most study participants were White. Despite being the majority, White children had nearly the same autism rates as Black children, who made up a much smaller sample.
In Canada, Statistics Canada reports that children with ASD are more likely to experience poor mental health, anxiety disorders, and learning difficulties. They also struggle more with social skills such as: communication, adapting to change, and making friends.
Poverty plays a central role in who gets help and who doesn’t. Statistics Canada shows ASD prevalence is highest among children from the lowest-income households (2.6%) and lowest among wealthier families (1.1%).
The reasons are clear. Autism therapy is expensive and often out of reach for families with limited financial resources. Free, or subsidized programs exist, but long waitlists and underfunded schools mean many children go years without proper support.
Research also suggests that programs serving children of colour receive less funding per child compared to programs serving White families. This creates an uneven system where race and income combine to limit care.
Economic barriers aren’t the only factor. Bias within the healthcare system means many Black and Latin children are misdiagnosed or diagnosed later than their White peers.
Researchers stress that autism has no biological racial differences. Instead, the disparities stem from doctors missing early signs, especially when cultural differences shape how symptoms present. Some parents of colour also report experiencing racial bias when seeking autism screenings for their children.
This leads to later diagnoses and fewer opportunities for early intervention, one of the most important factors in improving long-term outcomes.
From the U.S. to Canada, four truths stand out:
• Early diagnosis is crucial. Children who get support sooner show better long-term outcomes.
• Minority children are most affected. Black, Brown, and Indigenous families face higher rates and greater challenges.
• Low-income families are disadvantaged. Autism therapy often costs more than struggling families can afford.
• Racism plays a role. Both systemic underfunding and medical negligence create barriers for children of color.
When the spotlight shines on Tylenol, or Trump’s outbursts, the real issue gets ignored. The crisis is about families who need help navigating autism and can’t access it. The conversation about autism must go beyond speculation and political noise. What’s at stake is whether children, especially those from minority and low-income families, receive the timely, effective care that can change their futures.
Tylenol may make headlines, but the real fight is about equity, access, and compassion. Until those gaps close, minority autism families in Canada and the U.S. will remain the hardest hit.
A charm that changed my perspective; My journey into St. Kitts through Bluboho’s eyes
worlds, I understand the power of carrying symbols of protection and identity. What unfolded during the event would challenge my understanding of how jewellery can bridge cultures and tell stories that resonate deep within our souls.
Maggie Aurocco, Bluboho’s founder, shared a personal narrative that captivated the room. “When I was twelve, my mother tucked a tiny St. Christopher charm into my hand before I traveled alone across the country,” she recounted, her voice thick with emotion. “It was love I could hold, a promise of protection, a compass for the unknown.”
As I stepped into the Bluboho Boutique, I never expected to be transported to a Caribbean island through jewellery. The air buzzed with anticipation as journalists, influencers, and tourism officials gathered to witness something extraordinary: the unveiling of “Safe Travels, Wild Heart,” a collaboration between Canadian fine jewellery brand Bluboho and St. Kitts Tourism Authority.
The collection, inspired by St. Christopher (the patron saint of travel and namesake of St. Kitts) immediately struck a chord with me. As a travel journalist who has traversed between
BY GEORGE SHEPPARD TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS
This revelation sparked something in me. How often do we underestimate the emotional weight of small objects that accompany us on our journeys? I found myself reflecting on the ruby ring my mother gave me for my 40th birthday. I still wear it when I need courage.
The collection, crafted from recycled 14k gold and ethically sourced gemstones including larimar, embodies a philosophy of intentional travel and meaningful connection, values that seem increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.
Hon. Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism for St. Kitts emphasized this alignment, “St. Kitts is not the loudest island in the Caribbean. It is quiet. Humble. And that is its beauty.” Her words resonated with my own experience of finding strength in authenticity rather than volume.
In an exclusive interview, Anita Nightingale, Chief Marketing Officer for St. Kitts Tourism Authority, revealed the strategic thinking behind this collaboration. “We wanted to reach an audience that would appreciate a boutique destination,” she explained. “People who seek authentic experiences rather than superficial tourism.”
Anita’s insight struck me as particularly profound. “When people find a special place, sometimes they don’t want to share it,” she admitted. “They want to keep it as their own secret sanctuary.” This tension between preservation and promotion is something I have often contemplated as a travel journalist.
What makes this collaboration remarkable is how it transcends mere marketing. It creates a narrative loop: travellers wear the jewellery, which reminds them of St. Kitts, which in-
spires them to return, or share their experience, which in turn attracts new visitors who might purchase the jewelry. It’s a self-sustaining story cycle.
The collection will unfold in three chapters over the next year, with the first chapter “Welcome to St. Kitts” available now. As I held one of the delicate St. Christopher charms in my hand, I understood its power. It was an invitation to explore, to connect, to venture deeper.
As the event concluded, Bluboho and St. Kitts Tourism announced a contest: one lucky winner will receive a trip for two to St. Kitts, including accommodations at Koi Resort and a $6,000 CAD Bluboho gift card. The real prize, I realized, is the opportunity to experience the intersection of protection and adventure that this collection represents.
I invite you to discover this collection for yourself. Visit bluboho.com, or their retail locations across Canada to experience these modern-day talismans. Perhaps, like me, you will find yourself inspired to journey to St. Kitts, where wild hearts are always welcome, and every traveller leaves with a story worth telling.
I grew up in a rural community where life looked much the same from one family to the next. We ate the same foods, went to the same churches, spoke the same way. Difference wasn’t something we encountered much, and if it did appear, it often made people uncomfortable. Looking back, the possibility for racist ideas could quietly take root, since we were an almost entirely White, English-speaking community. When there is only one culture dominating daily life, anything outside of it becomes suspect.
We may not call it racism outright; it’s not always obvious. Instead, it shows up in small judgments; snarky comments about food that “smells funny,” suspicion toward a new person whose English sounds different, or sideways looks at clothes that don’t match what “we” wear. A different style of hair, or skin tone, and that person is judged as an outsider. In ways both big and small, we divide the world into “us” and “them.” Once we draw those lines, our sense of responsibility follows suit: if something affects “us,” it matters a lot; if it affects “them,” we feel less urgency.
This mindset is painfully obvious when it comes to how we have historically treated Indigenous people in Canada. Many of us want to think we have empathy, but we need to ask, how genuine is it? We wear orange shirts once a year, we share social media posts, we lower our
heads during a moment of silence on September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, but what happens now when the headlines fade? Do we sit with the hard truth, or do we let it drift away, back into the comfort of our own little world?
I’ll never forget a dinner from years ago. One of my boys, who has Indigenous heritage, was sitting with us. Someone at the table was sharing stories about working in the North. Then came the comment, “It was fine—except for the dirty Indians.” The words dropped like poison into the room. Silence, and then my son, quiet but sharp, said, “Well, that’s awkward.” He shouldn’t have had to say a word, but that’s the reality, remarks like that are still tossed around as if they’re acceptable.
The truth is stark. For generations, Indigenous children were taken from their homes and placed in residential schools, taken away from families who loved and wanted them. These schools were not places of learning; they were institutions of abuse and control. The goal was, in the cruel language of the time, “To take the native out of them.” Children were forbidden to speak their language, practice their traditions, and, in many cases, even keep their given names. They were told to be ashamed of who they were. The damage from this cultural purge and theft still ripples across families and communities today. Far too many children never found their way home.
Many of us have traced our family trees
in some way. In eastern Canada, various parts of England, Ireland, and other areas of Europe are where the roots of many originate. When European settlers came to this land, they did not come to share. They came to take over, to occupy territory, and to claim resources. For Indigenous peoples across Canada: Cree, Algonquin, Dene, Mi’kmaq, Inuit, Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and countless others—this was the beginning of centuries of displacement, violence, and cultural destruction. In some cases, like the Beothuk of Newfoundland, it meant extinction. Our ancestors, the ones on our family trees, bear that responsibility, carrying out those atrocities. That is their legacy.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was meant to confront that truth. It is a recognition of loss and an attempt to restore what was stolen. It is about Indigenous people reconnecting with languages, traditions, and identities that were systematically stripped away. It is also about non-Indigenous Canadians facing the fact that this is not ancient history. Survivors of those residential schools are alive today. Their children and grandchildren live with the consequences.
Here’s the harder part: reconciliation isn’t just for Indigenous people to work out on their own. It isn’t about us offering sympathy from a distance and then moving on. It requires us, especially those of us who grew up with privilege we didn’t recognize, to examine: our comfort zones, our blind spots, and our complicity.
It asks us to do more than just nod; it asks us to listen, to learn, and to take action even when it is unsettling.
It’s not only Indigenous peoples who are treated as outsiders in rural Canada. Immigrants who arrive in small towns with different foods, languages, or faith traditions often face the same labeling: strange, different, not quite belonging. They, too, encounter suspicion and exclusion simply for being themselves. This same “us and them” thinking that once justified residential schools is alive today in how we judge newcomers in our own communities.
In small rural towns like the one I know well; the challenge is even greater. When you are used to a single culture, difference can feel like a threat, but that is precisely why the work is so important. If reconciliation is to mean anything, it must move us past “us and them.” It must remind us that Indigenous suffering is not their problem alone, it’s ours too, because here’s the truth: when generations of Indigenous families are robbed of their children, that loss is not just theirs. It diminishes us all. When immigrants are treated as “strange,” it weakens the very fabric of the community, and when we look away, choosing the safety of silence, we become complicit. The work of repair is not theirs alone. It belongs to all of us, and until we embrace it fully, the line between “us” and “them” will keep tearing us apart.
PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The Brampton Food Hub has been reshaping how families in Brampton access food since its official launch on September 21st, 2023. Born out of a collective of long-standing nonprofit agencies, the Hub unites community partners to fight hunger and strengthen food security across the city.
Just weeks after its launch, the Hub hosted a Thanksgiving Fundraiser and Food Drive on October 4th, 2025, at 241 Clarence Street, Unit 5. Families, local leaders, and community partners gathered for: food, entertainment, and purpose. Guests included: Brampton Mayor
tor of Knights Table.
MPP Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, attended as guest of honour. Entertainment came from DJ Wet and the all-female reggae band Rayzalution, whose music added spirit and energy to the event. Nanny’s Kitchen served nutritious meals, reinforcing the Hub’s vision of ensuring families have access to culturally relevant, healthy food.
The Hub’s mission is clear; provide equitable access to nutritious food while reflecting the cultural diversity of Brampton’s residents. A promotional brochure describes its purpose: “Through a centralized food warehouse model, the Hub will increase food system capacity by procuring and providing equitable access to healthy and culturally appropriate food for communities facing food insecurity in Brampton.”
The vision follows the same spirit; no one should go hungry, and everyone should be able to access food that meets their health and cultural needs.
Outreach Coordinator Loletta Cunningham has been busy spreading this message. She promoted the fundraiser at Jamaica Day in Brampton, at
the Black Empowerment Unit’s monthly meeting, and live on CP24. Cunningham reminded residents that donations enable the Hub to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, essentials for a balanced diet.
The Brampton Food Hub grounds its work in three values:
• Collaboration builds strong food systems. Partnerships at every level create community impact.
• Equality and inclusivity guide every step. Everyone deserves access to healthy food.
• Diversity strengthens collective action. Brampton’s communities enrich the Hub’s reach and results.
The Hub offers a range of services that extend beyond food distribution:
• Food sourcing, storage, and inventory management
• Packaging and distribution
• Volunteer opportunities
• Training programs
• Shared services for nonprofits
• Hosting community events
Six nonprofit agencies form the back-
bone of the Hub: Knights Table, Punjabi Community Health Services, Free for All Foundation, Basket Brigade Canada, Bethel Outreach Community Services, and All Peoples Church. Together, they aim to build a sustainable food network that lifts families out of food insecurity.
The Hub has set three priorities to drive its work forward:
• Educate. Help residents understand the realities facing vulnerable families.
• Leverage. Build shared responsibility across government, industry, and community organizations.
• Expand awareness. Highlight the health and social consequences of food insecurity, including the urgent need for culturally appropriate food.
The Thanksgiving fundraiser is only the beginning. With food insecurity on the rise, the Hub plans to host more events that connect families with nutritious meals and build a resilient food system for Brampton.
The Brampton Food Hub’s work sends a clear message; when communities come together, hunger has no place to hide.
Why Doug Ford wants to kill Ontario’s speed cameras, and what’s at stake
says, is to encourage safer driving without punishing drivers unfairly.
The move collides with research, police data, and municipal opinion.
steven@carib101.com
to give municipalities money for oth er traffic-calming measures such as speed bumps and larger illuminated signs in school zones. The goal, he
A joint study by SickKids and Toronto Metropolitan University found that speed cameras in Toronto cut speeding by 45%. Even more striking, the biggest reductions came from vehicles exceeding speed limits by wide margins, the exact drivers most likely to cause fatal crashes.
Police leaders and municipal associations back the cameras, arguing they free officers to focus on serious crimes. A CAA Ontario survey shows the public agrees: 73 percent of drivers slow down near speed cameras, and more than half don’t resume speeding afterward. Overall, 73% of Ontarians support the cameras in targeted zones like schools and community streets.
once had more than 2,200 speed cameras, but the provincial government cut that number to about 650. It banned cameras on highways and restricted them to school zones, playgrounds, and construction sites after critics branded them “cash cows.”
The fallout was quick. Municipalities reported more speeding and rising safety concerns on local streets. Vulnerable groups (especially children and seniors) faced higher risks. Road safety experts caution Ontario could see the same result if Ford follows Alberta’s path.
At least 22 Ontario mayors have urged Ford to reverse course. Brampton, for example, voted to keep its automated enforcement program despite the province’s direction. Local leaders argue removing cameras will fuel dangerous driving, especially in school zones.
enforcement, while: municipal leaders, health experts, and police cite clear evidence that cameras prevent speeding and protect lives.
This is about what Ontarians value more: easing frustration for drivers or protecting communities from preventable harm. The debate reflects a bigger tension between public acceptance of enforcement tools and the hard data that shows they work.
As Ford moves ahead, the choice facing Ontario is stark. Remove cameras and risk more crashes or keep them and accept that safety sometimes comes at the cost of convenience.
As Marvin Ashton once wrote: “Becoming rich is an easy venture. The challenge lies in using wealth wisely for the world’s benefit.” The same could be said of power. The question now is whether Ontario will use its political capital to invest in safety, or gamble it away for short-term popularity. STEVEN
Ontario isn’t the first province to wrestle with this debate. Alberta
The fight highlights a deep divide: Ford’s government sides with drivers tired of fines and skeptical of
The story of Dahrran Diedrick begins where many Caribbean stories do, with hope, determination, and an unshakable belief in possibility. I first heard from Karen Moulton about our Classic Man, and I was compelled to look beyond the statistics and trophies to understand the man who left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Born in Jamaica and raised in Toronto, Dahrran’s journey represents the quintessential immigrant experience: adapting, overcoming, and ultimately thriving. His son Kendrick shares insights into the formative experiences that shaped his father’s character, “I remember some of the stories that he told me when he came to Canada. He had to adapt quickly, to the weather, the culture, the food, and this prepared him for his move to Nebraska. He always loved Toronto and couldn’t see himself living anywhere else.”
This adaptation would prove crucial when Dahrran made history as the first Canadian to receive a full football scholarship to the University of Nebraska. For those unfamiliar with the sports landscape, this achievement cannot be overstated. At the time, the pathway from Canadian high school football to American NCAA Division was practically nonexistent.
“I remember him telling me that it felt unreal,” Kendrick recalls. “As a kid from Canada, these things didn’t happen for athletes. He was like 1 of 3 in that era to get a scholarship. People who played in Canada didn’t get that opportunity, so it was a big deal for the family. I wasn’t born yet, so I can only go off what I heard.”
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is how Dahrran leveraged this opportunity.
At Nebraska, he excelled. Rushing for 2,745 yards and 26 touchdowns over four seasons, he led the Big 12 in rushing in 2001 with 1,299 yards, earning first-team All-Big 12 honours and helping Nebraska reach the BCS National Championship Game. These statistics, however impressive, only tell part of the story.
The true measure of Dahrran’s impact lies in the relationships he built and the lives he touched. Many remember him as a powerhouse on the football field, but those closest to him speak most about his humility and leadership.
“How my dad interacted with my teammates, well, he was a very personal and involved man,” Kendrick shares. “To this day, teammates still talk about my dad. My one friend Damien always tells me how much of an influence he had on him. He was very relatable.”
This relatability became Dahrran’s signature trait, both during his playing days and throughout his nine-year CFL career, where he won three Grey Cups with the Montreal Alouettes and contributed to both the Edmonton Eskimos and Toronto Argonauts. His ability to connect transcended cultural and social boundaries, making him a mentor to many.
Then came the turning point that would test his resilience like never before. In 2016, after being diagnosed with lymphoma, Dahrran underwent a stem cell transplant. What happened next reveals the depth of his character…
“It was just who he was,” Kendrick explains. “The first time he was sick, as soon as he began to recover in the hospital, he was lifting dumbbells in the hospital. He would also go around and talk to other patients
in the hospital. When he came out the first time, it was like nothing happened.”
This incredible resilience led him back to the game he loved, this time as a strength and conditioning coach for the Argonauts, where he continued to inspire others through his perseverance and positive attitude. Even in the face of mortality, Dahrran’s focus remained on lifting others up, a testament to his selfless nature.
When Dahrran passed away in 2023, he left behind a legacy that extends far beyond his athletic achievements. The DD Starlight Foundation, established in his honour, embodies his commitment to empowering underserved youth through sports.
“The foundation is still very young, but one thing he was big on was helping youth reach their goals,” Kendrick says. “One of the things we want to do is provide opportunities for young people. Sometimes our young athletes have to go away for school in the states, and it is very expensive, so the scholarship is built around providing that support.”
This September, as Dahrran was inducted into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame, the Foundation hosted its 2nd Annual DD Starlight Walk-a-Thon on September 27th, at Morningside Park Trail. The event celebrated Dahrran’s life while raising vital support for youth programs that reflect his values of determination, teamwork, and community spirit.
For Kendrick, honouring his father’s legacy is both a responsibility and a privilege. “He was a one-ofa-kind person. He was just special. People who knew him when they were 13 and 14 still talk about him. I
only have positive memories of him.”
When asked what lessons the next generation should carry forward from his father’s story, Kendrick emphasizes, “His work ethic. He accomplished things that people thought were impossible. The way he went about life in general was different, and I haven’t seen anything like that.”
As we reflect on Dahrran Diedrick’s remarkable journey, from Jamaica to Toronto, from Nebraska to the CFL Hall of Fame, we are invited to consider our own capacity for resilience, leadership, and community building. His story reminds us that true greatness isn’t measured solely in yards gained, or championships won, but in lives touched and barriers broken for those who follow.
The DD Starlight Foundation continues Dahrran’s mission of empowering youth through sport. You can be part of this enduring legacy by participating in the Walk-a-Thon or contributing to the scholarship fund. Visit www.ddstarlightfoundation. com to learn how you can help the next generation of athletes achieve their dreams, because every great journey begins with a single step, and every community is strengthened when we lift each other up.
Written by Simone J. Smith
Vaccines protect the health of our students & school communities.
Routine childhood vaccines or a valid exemption are required to attend school in Ontario. Parents/guardians need to report vaccines to public health.
toronto.ca/StudentVaccines
You care for your loved ones. When one of yours needs one of ours, social workers and social service workers are ready to provide trustworthy and quality care.
We are the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. As the provincial regulator, we ensure all our registrants follow the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice to protect the public, and provide ethical, effective and community-centred care.
If you or someone you love needs help, you can trust one of ours with one of yours.
saturday, october 25th, 2025 cocktails 6:00 pm
woodbine banquet hall, 30 vice regent blvd etobicoke (hwy27, south of rexdale blvd)
Are you in the group of people who treat insurance the way you do exercise? You know it’s good for you, but you put it off until it’s too late. Human behaviour can be so irrational, but insurance really should be a priority for your attention among the list of things that keep you well.
A thoughtful look at what determines your wellbeing includes preparations for disasters of all kinds, not just the risk factors for disease. A burst pipe, a fire, a car accident, or a sudden illness abroad can be as bad, or worse than a slow march to a chronic health program. Disasters, many of them entirely out of your own
control, can undo a lifetime of careful living in a single day.
I recently attended the Canadian Health Food Association show in Toronto where I met Leigh McFarlane, owner of a growing soap business, who knows this from experience. A fire tore through her home and shop, and she discovered too late that her insurance policy was woefully inadequate. She lost everything. Today, with grit and resilience, she is rebuilding The Soap Company of Nova Scotia.
The hard truth is that much of her suffering could have been prevented. McFarlane’s is a story not just about fire. It’s about health. Yes, financial health for sure, but also physical health. Nothing raises blood pressure; shatters sleep or wears down the immune system like the anxiety of financial ruin. Insurance, dull as it can be, is a prescription for peace of mind. Think broadly about what insurance means. House and home: a burst pipe in winter can flood a basement and rack up bills that rival the cost of a heart bypass surgery. Income security: a sudden dis-
ability or the closure of a small business can wipe out years of hard work. Health coverage: travel insurance may seem optional, until you’re on vacation and a heart attack strikes.
Canadians abroad have found themselves facing bills of $50,000, or more for emergency care and medical evacuation. In the United States, where health insurance is tied to employment, or costly private plans, uninsured patients often delay treatment, sometimes with deadly consequences from a heart attack that could have been prevented with treatment.
People fall victim to different reasons. The optimist says, “It won’t happen to me.” The penny pincher buys the cheapest plan, only to discover exclusions result in inadequate coverage. The inattentive forgets to update coverage after a health change, or assumes the details don’t matter, and the overconfident believes government, or credit card policies will cover everything. Any of these errors can leave a family shattered.
Insurance is not a solitary matter. Families need to talk about it. When an elderly parent lets a policy lapse, or a young adult travels without medical coverage, the burden rarely falls on them alone. It falls on: spouses, children, and siblings. A parent falling sick abroad without travel insurance may need tens of thousands of dollars wired in an emergency. A flood in an underinsured home may force relatives to step in. An accident can derail employment and wipe out a family’s security.
Talking about insurance may never make the list of life’s great pleasures but getting the right insurance coverage is a relatively inexpensive and easy-toaccomplish determinant of your health. Remember, most insurance agents earn commissions on the policies they sell. You need to shop around, read the policies including the fine print, and ask lots of questions. Then purchase the right coverage. You will sleep better knowing that, whatever comes, you are ready.
If you follow the scent of pimento and Scotch bonnet drifting through the hills of Jamaica, it tells a story older than any restaurant sign or beachside grill. It’s a story born in secrecy — of people who cooked not to be found, and in doing so, created one of the world’s most distinct and resilient flavours.
What we call “jerk” today began as a matter of survival, turned into a declaration of freedom, and evolved into a global language of flavour recognized from Kingston to Toronto, London to New York. Yet, even with all its fame, few truly understand the origins of jerk — or the science that makes it such an unforgettable experience for the senses.
The Fire Hidden in the Hills
Long before tourists lined up for jerk chicken wrapped in foil, Jamaica’s dense mountain ranges were home to runaway slaves known as the Maroons. These were men and women who escaped British plantations during the 1600s and built independent communities deep within the island’s interior. Survival demanded stealth — fires had to be hidden, smoke had to be controlled, and food had to last for days.
The Maroons combined their African knowledge of seasoning and preservation with the cooking traditions of the Arawaks, the island’s original inhabitants. The Arawaks had long smoked and dried meat — particularly wild boar — over slow-burning embers. The Maroons adopted and evolved that technique, using it to sustain themselves while staying out of sight from British soldiers.
They would season the meat heavily with salt, peppers, and wild herbs, wrap it in leaves, and cook it in shallow pits covered with branches and earth. The trapped heat slowcooked the meat, while the buried coals produced little to no visible smoke — the perfect camouflage in enemy territory.
This was jerk’s first purpose: survival through ingenuity.
From Method to Identity
The word “jerk” itself likely comes from the Spanish “charqui,” meaning dried or jerked meat — the same root that gives us the word “jerky.” Over time, what began as a verb (to jerk or preserve) became the noun describing the method, the spice blend, and eventually, the food itself.
For the Maroons, jerk was more than sustenance; it was defiance. Every bite was proof of freedom — a taste that existed outside the plantation system. That symbolism carried through generations, turning jerk into a cultural badge. Even after slavery ended, jerk cooking remained tied to independence, resilience, and the spirit of community.
By the 1940s and 1950s, jerk transitioned from mountain camps to roadside stands. As people migrated from rural parishes to Kingston, the method evolved — from earthen pits to steel drum pans, cut open and converted into makeshift grills. Smoke once used to hide, now proudly rose skyward, marking the air with the scent of liberation.
The Anatomy of Jerk Seasoning
There’s no single “official” jerk recipe. Every cook, every parish, every grandmother has their own blend. Yet, certain ingredients remain sacred — each chosen for more than taste alone. Together, they form a kind of edible chemistry set where heat, aroma, and oil fuse into something primal and powerful.
Pimento (Allspice)
The backbone of jerk. Native to Jamaica, pimento berries carry hints of clove, nutmeg, and cin-
namon. The oil within the dried berries (especially eugenol) releases a sweet, smoky warmth when ground or burned. It’s what gives jerk its signature base note — that unmistakable “Jamaican” aroma no imported spice can mimic.
Scotch Bonnet Peppers
Deceptively small, these fiery lanterns contain high levels of capsaicin, which stimulates the body’s pain receptors and releases endorphins. The burn is balanced by a subtle fruitiness — think tropical mango meets citrus heat. It’s not just spice for the sake of punishment; it’s a carefully calibrated thrill.
Thyme, Scallion, and Garlic
The herbal trio adds depth and grounding. Thyme’s oils cut through fat; scallion brings brightness; garlic rounds out the savoury base. Together, they keep jerk from tipping into bitterness or excessive saltiness.
Ginger and Nutmeg
Used in moderation, ginger adds sharpness while nutmeg adds body. Both were part of Jamaica’s colonial spice trade, and both tie jerk to a much broader story — the global movement of flavour through forced migration and resistance.
Salt, Sugar, and Acid
Traditional jerk rubs rely on salt for preservation, but a touch of brown sugar (or molasses) helps with caramelization and colour. Lime juice or vinegar adds acidity, which balances the heat and helps tenderize tougher cuts of meat.
The magic of jerk lies in the reaction between allspice oil, pepper capsaicin, and smoke particles. When heated, these compounds bond and create the complex layers that linger long after the meal — that slow fade from heat to sweetness to earthy satisfaction. It’s science meeting soul.
Cooking in Secret: The Science Behind the Smoke
The Maroons’ underground cooking pits weren’t just clever — they were engineering marvels.
By burying coals beneath layers of green pimento branches and earth, they created a natural convection system. Heat radiated evenly, moisture stayed locked in, and the smoke that escaped was cool and diffused — almost invisible.
That slow, enclosed heat transformed tough wild meat into tender, smoky perfection. Modern pitmasters chase the same effect with smoker boxes and controlled air vents, but the principle hasn’t changed: low heat, limited oxygen, and aromatic wood.
Pimento wood remains the gold standard. When it burns, it releases sweet, clove-like compounds that permeate the meat’s surface and react with the oils from the marinade. Even without a pit, using pimento chips or leaves on a barbecue creates that signature whisper of authenticity.
Scientifically speaking, jerk’s flavour relies on Maillard reactions — the browning process that develops flavour through amino acids and sugars — combined with smoke condensation, which deposits phenols and aldehydes onto the surface. It’s culinary alchemy disguised as simplicity.
The Evolution of Jerk: From Boar to Global Phenomenon
As Jamaica modernized, so did jerk. Wild boar gave way to pork shoulder, chicken, and even fish. Street vendors in Boston Bay, Port Antonio,
and St. Ann’s Bay became legends, each guarding family recipes handed down for generations.
When Jamaicans began migrating in large numbers during the mid-20th century, they took jerk with them — in spice jars, memory, and tradition.
In London, jerk met the cold; cooks adapted, using ovens and stovetops but still carrying the fire in spirit.
In Toronto, jerk became both comfort food and cultural bridge — sold from Caribbean bakeries, food trucks, and corner take-out spots where the smell alone could stop traffic.
Today, you’ll find jerk tacos in Los Angeles, jerk ramen in Tokyo, jerk poutine in Montreal, and fine-dining chefs pairing jerk spices with lamb, shrimp, and even cauliflower. The world embraced the flavour — but for many Jamaicans and their descendants, jerk remains something sacred: a tie to ancestry and defiance, to cooking with intention and heart.
Modern Techniques, Traditional Soul
Not everyone has a pimento tree in the backyard, but authentic jerk is about understanding process, not equipment. Whether you’re using a charcoal grill, drum pan, smoker, or oven, the keys are:
• Time: Let the marinade do its work. Overnight is best; 24 hours is ideal.
• Temperature: Cook low and slow — between 250°F and 300°F.
• Wood Smoke: Add pimento wood or hickory for depth. Even a small handful of soaked wood chips can transform your results.
• Moisture: Don’t let the surface dry out; baste occasionally or keep a pan of water nearby to maintain humidity.
A true jerk experience balances heat, smoke, and sweetness — it’s not about setting your mouth on fire, it’s about telling a story with flavour.
How to Make Authentic Jerk Seasoning
Here’s how to bring that story home. You can make a wet marinade or a dry rub — both versions carry the essence of jerk, but the wet mix penetrates deeper for chicken and pork.
Wet Jerk Marinade
Ingredients:
• 6–8 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to your heat tolerance)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 stalks of scallion (green onion), chopped
• 6 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tbsp dried)
2 tablespoons ground allspice (pimento)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor.
2. Pulse until smooth — a thick, paste-like consistency.
3. Marinate chicken or pork for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight.
Cooking:
Grill over charcoal if possible, adding soaked pimento or hickory chips to the fire. Cook slowly, turning and basting occasionally with leftover marinade (boiled separately for safety).
Dry Jerk Rub
Perfect for fish, shrimp, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne or chili flakes
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Mix together and store in an airtight container. Rub generously before grilling. Add a squeeze of lime before serving to brighten the flavours.
Pro Tips for Perfect Jerk
• Balance your fire. Jerk shouldn’t scorch; it should smoulder. Don’t skip the acid. Lime or vinegar activates the spices and lifts the marinade.
• Layer flavour. Marinate, grill, and then finish with a quick glaze of reduced marinade for shine and punch.
• Rest the meat. Let cooked jerk sit for 5–10 minutes before cutting — it allows the juices and oils to settle.
The Global Flame
Walk through any Caribbean festival in Toronto or Notting Hill and you’ll find jerk at the centre — sizzling on half-cut oil drums, sending plumes of fragrant smoke into the air like a signal fire. It’s the same smoke that once hid the Maroons now calling people together in celebration. Jerk has become more than food; it’s a story told through spice, sound, and memory. It’s the reminder that what starts in struggle can become something that unites the world in joy. Every pepper, every whiff of pimento, every lick of flame carries a trace of those early cooks who refused to be silenced.
And that’s the real secret to jerk — not just the recipe, but the spirit behind it. A spirit that says, no matter what tries to chase us down, we’ll still eat well, we’ll still season our life with fire, and we’ll still leave the world full of flavour.
Closing Thought
Jerk is survival turned into art. It’s a slow burn of history, chemistry, and courage — a living example of how the oppressed transformed scarcity into celebration.
From mountain pits to backyard barbecues, from Maroon hideouts to global fame, jerk remains one of the purest expressions of Caribbean identity.
So next time you stand over your grill, eyes watering from Scotch bonnet and smoke, take a moment to appreciate the legacy you’re continuing. That aroma is more than dinner — it’s history, resilience, and freedom itself, rising on the wind.
BY LISA THOMPSON LEGAL LISA
When Caribbean immigrants settle in Ontario, they often bring with them cultural norms about inheritance, rooted in fairness, and sacrifice. In Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, and elsewhere it is widely accepted that the child, who shoulders the greatest burden of caring for an ageing parent, deserves the lion share of the estate, but in Ontario, the courts apply a different lens. Here inheritance is guided, not by who cares the most, but by whether the legal requirements for a valid will were met. The result is a clash between the fairness of caregiving and the justice of entitlement.
The family home as a battlefield
Take for example, a daughter, Angela Spencer, who left her job gave up her condo and spent over a decade caring for her mother until her death in 2022. Her younger siblings contributed little to the caregiving, but upon their mother‘s passing challenged the Will that left the home to their elder sister Angela.
To the caregiver fairness is clear; her sacrifices earned her the right to inherit. To the siblings, justice under Ontario law entitles each child to an equal claim unless the will withstands scrutiny; that dispute highlights the tension between cultural expectation and statutory framework.
Old school norms. versus new school law
“Old school” Caribbean inheritance practice often rests on oral promises, or com -
munity consensus. Parents may tell the eldest, or most devoted child. “This house will be yours when I’m gone.” Within the culture that statement carries real weight.
“New school” Ontario law, however, demands strict formalities; a valid Will must be properly: drafted, signed and witnessed. If it is challenged the court looks not at family stories, but at legal evidence, the justice system, favour, certainty, and equality of process, even when that feels unfair to the caregiver.
How Ontario courts way Will challenges Ontario courts operate on several principles when deciding in inheritance dispute:
• Minimal evidentiary threshold. A challenger must present credible evidence (medical records, witness statements, expert reports) to even raise a serious question about validity. In Johnson v. Johnson (Ontario C.A.) the court confirmed that a dementia diagnosis alone is not enough.
• A person making a Will must understand that they are doing so, know the nature of their property, and appreciate the claims of potential heirs. Dementia, or memory loss does not automatically erase capacity. In fact, courts have repeatedly upheld wheels where the tester showed “lucid intervals”.
• Undue influence and suspicious circumstances. The court looks for: coercion, secrecy, or last-minute changes, but unequal distribution to children, standing alone, is not proof of undue influence.
• Sometimes caregiving children succeed, not by challenging the Will, but
Life’s many roles shape our identity beyond a single label
BY GEORGE SHEPPARD
Life, as it turns out, is a lot like an onion. Not sleek, not glamorous, but layered, complicated, and guaranteed to make you tear up from time to time. Peel back the outer skin, that polished surface we show the world, and underneath are countless layers, each representing a role we carry.
We’re rarely just one thing. In a single day, we may juggle being a partner, a parent, a professional, a caregiver, a coach, a pet wrangler, a friend, and a neighbour. Some roles are chosen; others fall into our laps. Some are joyful; others are heavy, but together, they form who we are.
Yet, people often try to pin us down as just one thing. “She’s an accountant.” “He’s a stay-at-home dad.” “They’re the neighbour with the loud lawnmower.” No one is just one slice. A teacher might also be a poet and a caregiver to aging parents. A retiree may be a volunteer, a gardener, and the most dependable grandparent on the block. You wouldn’t hold up a single onion ring and call it the whole onion, would you? We’re full bulbs; layered and far more complex than we look.
Of course, managing these layers isn’t always easy. A manager who spends the day giving direction may need to shift into listening mode at home. A parent may find themselves both disciplinarian and confidant in the same evening. Among friends, we swap roles too: joker, counselor, cheerleader, or the quiet listener. The hat changes can be exhausting, but they’re also what make life textured.
Yes, sometimes our many roles
by bringing a claim for unjust. Enrichment, or constructive trust, arguing that their sacrifice created value deserving recognition.
Case law in action
In Graham v. McNally estate (Ontario Superior Court), a will was challenged on grounds of dementia and influence. The court dismissed the case, finding the evidence speculative and sufficient to cross the minimal threshold.
In Johnson v. Johnson, the Ontario Court of Appeal reaffirm that dementia does not equal in capacity, upholding the presumption of capacity.
Other cases have shown courts rejecting challenges, even where one child inherited more than another emphasizing that unequal treatment alone is not suspicious if the will was executed properly.
These cases illustrate the gap between fairness and justice: the courts demand evidence, not stories of sacrifice.
This divide is where many Caribbean families in Ontario find themselves. To the caregiver, fairness means recognition of years spent: cooking meals, administrating medications, and sacrificing financial independence. To the siblings, justice means equal entitlement under the law, unless the will is proven valid in every respect.
Ontario judges cannot rule based on what “feels” right. They apply statutes and precedent to ensure consistency. That rigidity often disappoints families steeped in traditions where fairness flows from live
contribution, not from paperwork.
Building bridges
The best way to avoid these painful disputes is to bridge the cultural gap early Caribbean parents in Ontario should:
• Make a professionally drafted Will that clearly reflects their intentions
• Document reasons for unequal treatment among children
• Discuss plans openly to minimize surprises after death
• Explore caregiving contracts, or coownership structures to fairly reward the sacrificing child
For caregivers, legal remedies, such as constructive trust claims may provide recognition of their contributions, even if the wheel is successfully challenged.
Inheritance to distribute among Caribbean, immigrant families in Ontario revealed a profound tension; the fairness of caregiving measured in sacrifice, duty, and love, often correlates with justice of entitlement, measured structures, presidents, and equality of process.
The caregiver, Angela, who gave up everything for her ailing mother, may find the law unmoved by her sacrifice, while her siblings who did little may benefit under a rigid system. It is in this uneasy space between fairness and justice that many families wage their battles.
The lesson is clear; in Ontario, fairness alone is not enough to secure justice for caregivers. Intentions must be formalized, documented, and translated into the language of the law.
make us cry. Parents know the tears that come at school concerts. Friends cry together over heartbreaks. Coaches tear up when their team finally scores (hopefully on the right net). Tears, like onion fumes, aren’t a sign of weakness. They are just proof that you’re cutting deep into something that matters.
The truth of the matter is that all these layers: they give us empathy. When we remember that the cashier is also: a student, a sibling, or a caregiver, we start to treat people with patience. The stern boss might be coming home to a toddler who won’t sleep. The chatty neighbour may also be caring for a sick parent. The person you see in one context almost always has roles you’ll never know.
Sometimes the weight of all those layers feels overwhelming. Expectations pull us in every direction, and perfection in each role is impossible. Maybe perfection was never the point. The beauty of the onion isn’t that it has a flawless surface, it’s that it holds so much within.
So, the next time you feel defined by just one role, or tempted to reduce someone else to one, pause. Remember the onion. Remember that we are all layered lives: parents and partners, leaders and learners, friends and neighbours, givers and seekers. Some layers are visible, others private, some old, some just forming. Together, they create a richness and resilience that no single label can capture.
Life’s an onion. Wear your layers proudly, and if they sometimes make you cry, well, that’s just proof that you’re: alive, complex, and real.
simone@carib101.com
When people ask me why James Clear’s Atomic Habits has become a global phenomenon, I often remind them: behind every bestseller lies a deeper cultural hunger. For Clear’s book, hunger is about productivity, discipline, efficiency, and belonging. Communities like ours, navigating histories of displacement, racism, and resilience, know better than most that survival is built on daily practices. That is why Atomic Habits may hold the blueprint for how we move from surviving to thriving, together.
Many of us carry unspoken exhaustion. The pressure to do more with less: less time, less access, less societal recognition. This breeds cycles of burnout. We tell ourselves that change must be massive to matter. Buy a house. Get a promotion. Lose thirty pounds. The enormity of those goals scares us into
stillness, and when we don’t succeed, we internalize failure as personal rather than systemic. What the author of Atomic Habits, James Clear does, gently, but firmly, is dismantle this myth of “overnight change.”
He reminds us that the habits we build (incremental, almost invisible) shape the arc of our lives. This reframing is powerful for racialized communities who often face limited external rewards. Change, James argues, is an identity we practice daily. That reminder alone is psychological liberation.
Why do small actions matter so much? Neuroscience offers a clue. Our intuitive brain, sitting in the limbic system, craves immediate rewards and feelings of progress. Huge goals overwhelm this instinctive system, convincing us that change is impossible. Stacking micro-habits: five minutes of reading, two extra glasses of water, one honest checkin with a loved one, tricks the brain into recognizing consistent victories. Momentum builds. Self-belief grows.
Here lies the deeper lesson for our community: systems of oppression thrive on convincing us that incremental work is futile. Generational poverty won’t end. Racism is permanent. Ca-
reers have ceilings, but if oppression is systemic, why shouldn’t resistance be systemic too? Why shouldn’t our daily commitments to: self, family, and community compound just as powerfully as negative cycles have before?
Consider the proverb we often repeat, “Little by little, birds build their nest.” This is, in essence, Atomic Habits wrapped in ancestral wisdom. Our foremothers and forefathers understood that survival in hostile environments meant honouring the quiet disciplines: planting seeds, saving scraps, teaching children songs of freedom. James may frame the science, but we already carry the tradition. Reading this book feels less like discovering something new and more like remembering what our communities have always known.
James Clear speaks to a universal audience, but it is up to us to contextualize his message. We may not resonate with his examples of sports coaches, or Fortune 500 executives, but the principles apply seamlessly to a mother trying to model consistency for her children, to a young brother struggling to build financial discipline, to a cultural curator preserving heritage through daily creative practice. In other words, Atomic
Habits is about noticing how much of the system is already within us and choosing daily to water it.
Real transformation rarely comes in grand gestures; it begins in the smallest commitments we choose to honour daily. Whether that means thirty minutes of walking before dawn, journaling after work, budgeting with honesty, or teaching our children the habit of gratitude, each practice accumulates interest. The book becomes a personal tool, and a community strategy. If enough of us commit to these microshifts, the compounded effect becomes cultural change.
So, why should Atomic Habits matter to us now? While racism confines, systems deplete, and histories weigh heavy, our habits remain ours, and when we claim them, we reclaim the story of our lives.
If you have ever felt stuck between survival and vision, I urge you to pick up Atomic Habits. Begin with one small shift. Share it within your family circle. Teach it to a neighbour. Watch as the ripple grows.
Change begins in the smallest habit you choose today.
BY HERBERT HILDEBRANDT POLITICAL PARLEY
Markets move when people want them to move and they shift when: price, preference, and practicality line up. When politicians shove them in a direction no one asked for, we generally waste money and fail. History proves it. When Henry Ford rolled out the Model T, he didn’t need a parliamentary mandate, and he didn’t have to outlaw horses. He built something: cheaper, faster, and better, and the world stampeded to it. That, my friends, is what real innovation looks like.
Now contrast that with Canada’s EV subsidy experiment. Billions upon billions have been poured into subsidies, grants, and tax credits to push EVs onto the market. According to the Parliamentary Budget Office, governments in Canada, both federal and provincial, have committed over $50 billion since 2020 to try and force this shift in the name of saving the planet. That is the kind of money that could build entire industries, and what do we have to show for it? A market that: still resists, charging infrastructure that still lags, and Canadians who still
overwhelmingly prefer the reliability of internal combustion engines.
Look at the marquee projects. Volkswagen’s Ontario battery plant; up to $19 billion in subsidies. Stellantis-LG; more than $15 billion. Northvolt and others bring the total closer to $44 billion just for battery plants. Then add the rest of the programs and you are well north of fifty billion dollars. Politicians dress this up as “Investing in the future,” but if EVs were the obvious future, there would be no need to bribe the market with taxpayer (your) billions. Ford did not hand out coupons for the Model T, but he set a price an ordinary family could afford, and demand took care of itself.
The fallacy here is breathtaking. Leaders think they can buy a market shift, but markets generally do not bend to government coercion for long. Subsidies can distort, mandates can delay, but preference and price eventually decide, and right now, the preference is still largely with ICE. Most people trust a gas truck to start at forty below and they trust it to haul a trailer across the Rockies without a map of charging stops. There is certainly a market for alternative fuels such as: bat-
teries, hydrogen, and natural gas, but let the market decide.
Here is the real kicker. Just imagine if instead of burning $50 billion trying to manufacture demand for EVs, Canada had aimed that money at something bold: a clean-burning, world-class internal combustion engine. Something revolutionary, built here, branded here, and exported globally.
This is no fantasy. Automakers spend billions every year refining engines. GM just invested US$ 888 million into upgrading its Tonawanda plant for next-gen V8s. A brand-new engine line today costs about US$1-2 billion. Do the math; with $50B, you could fund the R&D for a revolutionary Canadian engine, fund two, or three state-of-the-art production lines, and still have billions left for infrastructure investments and export marketing.
Picture a Made-in-Canada engine that runs clean, delivers emissions so low regulators cannot object, and outperforms EVs in range, towing, and durability. Imagine licensing that technology to automakers around the globe. Instead of being a subsidy sinkhole, Canada could
be a propulsion powerhouse, exporting the very tech that keeps the world moving while cutting emissions without cutting freedom.
Markets shift rapidly when the product is undeniably better. If we had built that engine, adoption would have been organic. No bans, no subsidies, no lectures. Just like the horse did not disappear because Ottawa, or Washington passed a law. It disappeared because the car was: better, faster, cheaper in the long run.
Instead, we have spent tens of billions to force a transition that still has not happened, and it may never happen on the scale bureaucrats dream of, because the technology does not yet match the reality of Canadian life. You cannot legislate away: physics, geography, or consumer preference, but you can certainly build something better.
The lesson from Ford still holds, do not outlaw the old if you want to get rid of it. Just out-invent it. Canada had the money to do that, but sadly we just did not have the imagination.
DANIEL COLE
daniel@carib101.com
Intuition is often described as the mind’s quiet whisper, a sense of knowing that emerges without deliberate reasoning. Malcolm Gladwell calls it “The ability to think without thinking.” Contrary to the popular belief that intuition is a mystical gift, it is not reserved for a chosen few. Rather, it is a cognitive faculty that we all possess, one that can be sharpened and re -
Yet the crucial question remains; when can we trust our intuition, and when should we doubt it?
Nobel Laureate Daniel Kahneman, in his seminal work “Thinking, Fast and Slow,” warns that confidence in one’s intuition does not necessarily equate to accuracy. He identifies two conditions that determine whether intuitive judgments are likely to be valid:
• A regular environment—where patterns are stable and predictable.
• Prolonged practice—which allows individuals to learn and internalize those patterns.
This explains why a seasoned firefighter can sense a collapsing building before it happens, or why a chess grandmaster can anticipate an op -
ponent’s move with only a glance at the board. These judgments are not random guesses; they are the product of years of immersion in a structured domain where experience creates an unconscious database of patterns. By contrast, intuition in chaotic, or irregular domains (such as predicting lottery numbers, or timing the stock market) rarely holds true.
In this light, intuition is less about mystical flashes of insight, and more about compressed expertise. It is the brain’s ability to run complex calculations beneath the surface of awareness, arriving at judgments faster than conscious reasoning could manage.
Timothy D. Wilson, in Strangers to Ourselves, describes this “adaptive unconscious” as a kind of autopilot system: efficient, sophisticated, and essential for survival. Human beings likely could not have endured millennia of danger and uncertainty without this capacity to make rapid judgments under pressure.
However, the same faculty that protects us can also mislead us. Intuition can be tainted by cognitive biases, stereotypes, and emotional impulses. A “gut feeling” may sometimes be nothing more than the echo of a prejudice, or an overlearned fear. In such cases, the speed of intuition is purchased at the cost of accuracy. Thus, not all snap judgments are inherently wise; some are simply reflexes of flawed mental shortcuts.
The interplay between rational analysis and intuition is therefore not a battle, but a balance. Slow, deliberate thinking is invaluable for: complex, novel, or high-stakes problems. Intuition, meanwhile, shines in
environments where experience and regularity converge. One is not inherently superior to the other; each has its rightful domain.
Practically speaking, when faced with a decision, ask yourself two questions:
• Is this an environment where patterns are stable and familiar?
• Do I have enough experience in this domain to trust my instincts?
If both answers are yes, intuition is likely to serve you well. If not, caution and analysis should take precedence.
Yet, even with these guardrails, life cannot be reduced to probabilities alone. Sometimes, intuition beckons us toward opportunities or risks that analysis cannot fully justify. In such moments, it may be useful to apply a pragmatic test: What is the worst possible outcome, and can I live with it? If the answer is yes, following intuition may be worth the leap.
Ultimately, our deepest regrets in life often stem not from action, but from inaction; from the opportunities we sensed, but ignored, from the paths our intuition whispered about, but our caution silenced. To cultivate wisdom, therefore, is not to worship intuition blindly, nor to dismiss it outright, but to learn the subtle art of knowing when to listen.
Our minds are constantly generating models of the world and updating them with sensory input. Intuition, then, is not irrational; it is the rapid output of these internal models. Intuition improves not merely with experience, but with quality of feedback.
paperwork and other aspects of their job that are supposed to remain confidential.
sydnee@carib101.com
There’s nothing new about content creators going to different lengths to create content for their social media platforms. However, what people often fail to realize is that there is a limit as to what’s okay to share and what they should keep to themselves.
Recently, there has been a surge in people being fired from their jobs over the content they post on social media. If they’re not making posts complaining about their job, they are creating content at their place of work about what they do for a living, while revealing too much information in the process. In various videos where content creators detail a day in their lives at their job, there’s been a breach of privacy, with the employee showing
A notable example of this involves Bry Marixx, a TikToker who got fired from her dream job at LAX (Los Angeles International Airport). In her “Day in the Life” video, Marixx, who was a manager at the MAC inside the airport, recorded every part of her job that is not supposed to be viewed by the public. The store’s opening procedures, where money is kept, and logs were just some of the confidential details shared in the video. In response to violating the company’s social media policy, Marixx was fired from her job.
In a follow-up video, the TikToker shared her side of the story, stating she didn’t view it as a big deal to share her work life online, nor did she see her content as a security risk. This statement caused disbelief because the sensitive information she revealed could put not only her own safety, but also the safety of the other MAC employees at risk.
One thing that I noticed about those who have lost their job over
their social media content is that they didn’t think they did anything wrong, and I find it very off-putting. Finding a job nowadays is harder than ever. The unemployment rate continues to increase at a concerning rate, and it doesn’t seem like it could slow down anytime soon, as Starbucks recently announced it will be closing some of its U.S. and Canadian stores, leading to around 900 people being laid off due to a $1 billion restructuring.
Having a job is something a lot more people need to do a better job at appreciating, instead of taking it for granted.
There’s nothing wrong with someone wanting to showcase their life online. However, if you have a job outside of social media, you need to abide by the company’s policy surrounding what can and cannot be posted online. Protecting the company’s reputation is not the only priority; it’s also about prioritizing the safety and well-being of the employers and the employees.
Is this the missing blueprint for Canadian cannabis dining culture?
into a truly mature cannabis culture.
This manual is nothing less than a blueprint for a: civilized, respectful, and safe way to consume. It directly addresses the most significant and often misunderstood aspects of edibles: the delayed onset and potency variability. As CannaDine rightly points out, it’s this unique characteristic that leads to overconsumption, turning a pleasant experience into a “nightmare.” This is the very core of why precision is so crucial to responsible consumption. By hammering home the principle of “start low, go slow,” the manual provides the kind of common-sense guidance that should have been mainstream from day one.
The document then dives headfirst into the logistics of creating a safe environment, something that has been severely lacking in the cannabis community. It stresses that every detail matters, from sourcing cannabis legally and safely (avoiding the issues associated with an illicit market) to the meticulous process of dosing. It rightly frames the act of preparing cannabis-infused food not just as cooking, but as a scientific process, requiring digital scales and a precise understanding of milligrams. This is how we elevate infused dining from seeming like a dark-alley transaction to a sophisticated culinary practice, just as legal cannabis deserves.
Where the manual truly shines, and where it distinguishes itself from
other types of governing documents, is in its focus on the critical issues that have long been ignored. CannaDine’s unvarnished discussion on potential interactions with medications and, more importantly, the dangerous mix of cannabis and alcohol, is a monumental step forward.
The guide doesn’t pull any punches, detailing how THC can affect everything from blood thinners to antidepressants. It’s a brave and necessary move to prioritize health and safety over all else, forcing a new conversation about responsible consumption. The blunt yet relevant language about the synergistic effect of mixing cannabis and alcohol (“cross fading),” which can lead to “greening out,” an intense anxiety, and dangerous impairment) is a much-needed public education campaign. It’s a simple notion, but one that often gets lost in the casual nature of a party, and the manual’s call to action is a powerful one: choose one, or the other.
CannaDine even tackles the very act of a cannabis-infused gathering. It provides a full roadmap for event planning, from pre-notifying guests and designing menus with clear differentiation to managing the event itself with a sober host, and a clear emergency plan. It is a level of professionalism that has been missing from the conversation. The manual’s inclusion of emergency protocols and crisis management is a testament to its maturity. It acknowledges that, despite best intentions, things can go wrong, and a prepared, calm response is the only acceptable option.
In the end, CannaDine is a blueprint for a better cannabis culture. It takes the formless lump of clay that is the living, changing nature of our laws and shows how it can create beautifully polished plates for everyone to use. By providing a clear, simple outline for every aspect of infused dining, it normalizes and professionalizes a practice that has long been shrouded in myth, and mystery. It’s a crucial step in ensuring that as more people feel comfortable with how and what they consume, we can build a safe, respectable, and ultimately, more enjoyable cannabis community.
$449,000
Recently, one of my clients deposited funds for a home they purchased. The money was transferred into the seller’s brokerage account. My clients had just read the news: a large Ontario brokerage, iPro Realty, had suddenly shut down after regulators found millions missing from its trust accounts. My clients asked, “Is our money safe?” Their question was very reasonable. When you make a deposit (often tens of thousands of dollars) you are trusting not only your realtor, but also the brokerage that holds it. If that trust is broken, the consequences can be severe.
In August 2025, RECO (the Real Estate Council of Ontario) closed iPro after discovering $10.5 million was missing from consumer deposit and commission trust accounts. iPro Realty Ltd. was a brokerage that operated 17 offices across southern Ontario with approximately 2,400 agents.
After the shortfall was identified, it took months for the public to be informed and for law enforcement to become fully engaged. RECO had not inspected iPro for four years. When the shortfall became public, RECO agreed
not to pursue charges under specific statutes for the co-owners, which caused friction and eroded trust in how rules are enforced.
Although oversight responsibility is shared, regulators act as the system’s safeguards. Recent scandals have revealed the failures of regulatory bodies, and this issue must be tackled. Implement meaningful sanctions, including fines, restitution, and bans where appropriate. Merely shutting down the brokerage is not enough; principals must be held accountable when laws, or regulations are broken.
As a practicing realtor, I value trust highly. The relationships I build with each client are based on transparency, accountability, and professionalism. Recent changes in Canadian real estate are not just headlines, they serve as warning signs. When oversight fails, corners are cut, or a culture of complacency sets in, the impacts affect everyone: clients, realtors, brokerages, and the reputation of our profession.
Deposits, such as large sums made early on (like pre-construction), pose real financial risks. Many people do not fully understand how trust accounts are managed, what protections are in place, or how effective and transparent regulatory oversight actually is. The iPro case exposed how people’s life savings are stored in trust accounts with notable oversight gaps.
As a consumer, ask if the deposit is held in a brokerage’s trust account that
is regularly reconciled. Obtain written confirmation, or receipts showing where your money is stored. Inquire about any protections, or insurance coverage in place. For example, in Ontario, there is a consumer deposit insurance program under RECO. Do your due diligence on the brokerage: Has it had any issues in the past? Learn how to verify if a realtor is in good standing. Be aware of the steps to take if disputes arise, including claim processes and legal options.
Beyond paperwork and contracts, trust remains essential in real es-
terests. If something feels “off,” trust your instincts; it’s okay to walk away. The truth is most realtors are dedicated professionals who genuinely care about their clients. However, as recent failures demonstrate, consumers must also be proactive. By asking the right questions, you not only protect yourself, but you also help raise the industry standard. Purchasing, or selling a home is one of the most important financial choices you will make. Trust isn’t just a word we use in real estate; it’s the foundation of every successful deal. When
for the week of Ocotber 5 – October 11, 2025
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: LEO, SCORPIO, CAPRICORN
ARIES: Slow down and check your direction. You’ve been running full speed but may need a quick course correction. Listen before reacting.
TAURUS: Patience pays off. Something you’ve been building starts to show results. Protect your peace and don’t overexplain yourself.
GEMINI: Your spark’s back — use it wisely. A single focused step beats scattered energy. Someone from the past might reach out.
CANCER: You’ve been giving too much away. Pull back and refill your own cup. Home or family matters bring perspective.
LEO: The spotlight’s on you — handle it with grace. Lead, but stay humble. People are paying attention to how you move.
VIRGO: Details are your strength, but don’t overthink it. What’s meant for you is lining up naturally. Stay steady and open.
LIBRA: Balance is key. Stop giving energy where it’s not returned. A new face or opportunity feels like fresh air.
SCORPIO: Time to release what’s been holding you back. Once you let go, things move fast. Power returns with peace.
SAGITTARIUS: Stay grounded while chasing new ideas. Wrap up old tasks before starting more. A quick decision opens a new path.
CAPRICORN: You’re in control again. Small wins add up fast this week. Speak up — your opinion carries weight.
AQUARIUS: Your ideas stand out — trust them. Don’t wait for validation to make your move. Change starts when you say yes.
PISCES: Intuition leads the way. A small sign or message feels bigger than it seems. Follow your gut — it’s right.
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
Did you know paper disposables go in the Green Bin?
Paper towels, napkins and facial tissues.
Find out what else goes in the Green Bin to help divert waste from landfill.
