Volume 1 • Issue 7
Wednesday, October 21 2026
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FEATURE
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
LETITIA ARGOLA
Photo Courtesy of Andiswa Mrasi
The heart behind the roles Before Letitia Argola ever stepped onto a television set or commanded a theatre stage, she mastered the fragile art of human caregiving. As a registered nurse and physical-therapy assistant, her days are measured in rehabilitation milestones, patient advocacy, and moments of quiet human vulnerability. That profound grounding in empathy now radiates through her screen performances, most notably in her lead portrayal of First Lady Sandra Clayton in the drama series Sundays After Church. On screen, Letitia possesses a rare presence: an intricate blend of emotional warmth, quiet composure, and unspoken steel. Yet her journey to becoming a lead actress was neither linear nor calculated. It is a story forged across geographic borders; from the fast-paced streets of New York to the coastal charm of Savannah, through the healing waters of St. Croix, and ultimately into the booming film studios of Atlanta. Accent, Accentuation, and Childhood Courage Born in New York as the unexpected baby of a family whose older children were already teenagers, Letitia discovered her instinct for performance early. At just four years old, captivated by an episode of The Brady Bunch, she began pacing her family’s home innocently repeating a character’s dramatic declaration: “I’m going to run away.” Her fiery father misconstrued the line as genuine rebellion, sparking a family uproar that inadvertently marked her very first convincing acting role. When her family relocated to Savannah, Georgia, after kindergarten, six-year-old Letitia faced profound culture shock. Disconnected from her older sisters who remained in New York, she found herself teased by southern classmates for her crisp northern accent and high-pitched voice, which peers likened to Mickey Mouse. Worse trials followed in elementary school, when a severe scalp infection contracted from playground sand forced doctors to shave her head completely. Facing third grade in a wig, she endured relentless anxiety and teasing, sparking a decades-long aversion to artificial hair. To navigate her childhood shyness, Letitia turned to dance at age thirteen. As
a high school majorette and ensemble performer spanning jazz, tap, modern, and Afro-Caribbean styles, movement offered a sanctuary where she could express herself without the terror of public speaking or solo vulnerability. The Island Sanctuary and The Epiphany Even as she built a stable career in healthcare as a nurse and physical-therapy assistant, the quiet pull toward dramatic storytelling never disappeared. In search of personal renewal and space to heal, Letitia took a travel healthcare assignment to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. What was intended as a temporary three-month stay stretched into nearly five years of deep personal transformation. Immersed in the island’s vibrant community, she embraced community theatre, local commercials, dance ensembles, and her first short film. It was during this island sanctuary around 2014 that a single television broadcast altered the trajectory of her life. Watching Viola Davis deliver a masterclass in emotional raw power as the lead in “How to Get Away with Murder,” something shifted inside Letitia. Seeing a dark-skinned, shapely, unapologetically authentic African American woman anchor a major network series shattered every industry stereotype Letitia had internalized since youth. “It’s my time. It’s my time. I’m going for it,” she declared to herself. She promptly commissioned her first professional headshots from her photographer friend, stepping boldly onto the path of professional acting. The Atlanta Crucible and Unscripted Grace Driven by a yearning for the changing seasons and closer proximity to stateside opportunities, Letitia booked a travel nursing assignment in Atlanta in September 2017. Just three days after her arrival, Category 5 Hurricane Maria devastated St. Croix and Puerto Rico, stranding island residents and sealing her transition to Georgia as a permanent move of destiny. Settling in Atlanta, she threw herself into rigorous craft study, enrolling at the Premier Actors Network under Dwayne Boyd and undertaking intense private coaching with Christine Horn.
Christine not only helped Letitia overcome her childhood hair trauma by showing her how wigs serve as essential artistic tools for character transformation, but also refined her on-camera technique for film and television. Letitia’s major breakthrough arrived when she submitted for a role in a short film titled Cuffed, produced by Eric Brown of Cinnamon Brown Entertainment. Falling ill near the submission deadline, she took a leap of faith and called the director directly to request an extension. He granted the extension, and after booking and excelling on the set of Cuffed, Eric was so struck by her work ethic, poise, and magnetic authenticity that he took an extraordinary step: he offered her the lead role of First Lady Sandra Clayton in his flagship dramatic film Sundays After Church without requiring an audition. Booked, busy, and grounded in purpose Today, Letitia balances her ongoing nursing work with a burgeoning screen career that includes appearances in productions such as: “I Survived Suicide,” “Broken City,” “Atlanta’s Ugly 2.0,” and “Fatal Attraction,” alongside stage credits in “Dreamgirls” and “9 to 5.” Her healthcare profession provides financial independence, allowing her to approach auditions from a place of gratitude and artistic freedom. When leading a set, she arrives thoroughly off-book, upholding a standard of discipline inspired by veterans like Taraji P. Henson. Looking ahead, Letitia aims to secure a regular role on a network series, maintaining a firm belief in artistic timing. “You always hear what is for you is for you,” she reflects. “So, the roles that I auditioned for and I didn’t book, they were not mine, but mine is coming. I just know it.” Through every chapter, from childhood resilience to the quiet dignity of nursing and the luminous power of the screen, Letitia Argola continues to prove that true stardom is rooted in the unwavering grace of being authentically oneself.
Written by Simone J. Smith TCN Now
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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
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Helping Hands Jamaica transforms education, 20th anniversary SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
The waves of Lake Ontario lap gently outside Toronto’s historic Palais Royale Ballroom, but inside, the air pulses with the vibrant warmth and rhythmic energy of the Caribbean. The smooth, soulful melodies of Joe Joe’s saxophone mingle with the crisp, citrus notes of rum punch as high-society elegance meets genuine human purpose. Elegantly dressed philanthropists, corporate leaders, diplomats, and community champions have gathered for the 20th\ Anniversary Jamrock Gala, celebrating two decades of transformative work spearheaded by the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF). Beneath the glittering chandeliers and black-tie glamour lies an unwavering commitment: expanding educational opportunities and building a brighter future for Jamaica’s next generation, one school at a time. What began twenty years ago as a modest vision among five dedicated individuals raising $10,000 at their inaugural dinner has grown into a powerful movement of international solidarity. Founded by tennis icon Karl Hale, the foundation operates on a clear, action-driven motto: Participate, Educate, Elevate. Over two decades of relentless dedication, HHJF has mobilized corporate sponsors like: Packall Packaging, NHI Healthcare,
and Ingredion Canada Corporation alongside thousands of passionate voluntourism builders. Reflecting on twenty years of sustainable progress, Karl Hale summarized the foundation’s remarkable trajectory before an inspired audience: “Over 20 years we have built 28 schools, we have helped over 10,000 children, we have brought down thousands of people for our voluntourism trip, and just as important, we have developed a community of just love and caring.” This enduring partnership showcases the deep cultural, economic, and philanthropic bridge connecting Canada and Jamaica. The evening served as a moving testament to how diaspora leadership and cross-border friendship can eliminate systemic barriers for vulnerable children. Addressing the packed ballroom, Consul General of Jamaica in Toronto, Kurt Davis, commended the extraordinary spirit of donors and volunteers who continue to uplift island communities across generations. “You remind us that generosity knows no borders and love covers a whole distance across the seas,” Consulate Davis remarked, capturing the profound international impact of the foundation’s annual hands-on school builds. Beyond the glamour and applause, the gala illuminated the real human stories driving this mission forward. Keynote speaker and honoree Wes Hall, Founder and CEO of Kingsdale Advisors and Chancellor of the University of Toronto, shared a deeply personal narrative that moved the room. Recalling his humble beginnings in a 5-foot stilted wooden shack in St. Thomas, Jamaica, where he walked to school barefoot and sat on flooded steps with his grandmother during heavy rains, Wes Hall underscored why sup-
porting educational infrastructure remains so urgent. Connecting his journey from childhood hardship to corporate prominence, he delivered an unforgettable lesson in empathy, “I know what it’s like to be poor. I will never forget what it’s like to be poor, but I will never forget those who are poor.” That same fierce dedication resonated through fellow honoree Angella Bennett, Regional Director for Canada at the Jamaica Tourist Board. Angella recalled the grueling six-week mobilization following devastating hurricane destruction across the island, where leaders rallied tirelessly to raise critical funds and rebuild damaged infrastructure. For Angella Bennett, tourism and advocacy represent an active investment in human capital and youth empowerment. Emphasizing the travel industry’s role in up-
lifting local communities, she affirmed that supporters are “Investing in our future Jamaican children.” As the formal program concluded and guests took to the dance floor, momentum continued to build for the road ahead. HHJF announced its upcoming 29th school build in Trelawny, Jamaica, ensuring that hundreds more young students will soon gain access to safe, inspiring learning environments. In the true spirit of Jamaica’s national motto, “Out of Many, One People,” the foundation proves that collective compassion can rewrite life stories. Readers who wish to support, volunteer on an upcoming build, or contribute to school infrastructure can visit helpinghandsjamaica.com to help empower Jamaica’s future leaders
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NEWS & VIEWS
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Canada’s jobs crisis deepens as costs rise BY ADRIAN REECE TCN REPORTER Canada’s job market continues to struggle, while concerns about immigration, affordability and the country’s economic direction remain front and centre. In September 2026, Canada lost approximately 68,000 jobs, following a decline of about 42,000 in August, according to Statistics Canada. The unemployment rate rose to 6.5 per cent. Many Canadians continue to struggle to find work, while hiring events attract people searching for employment. For those trying to build a future, the promise of a comfortable life in Canada increasingly feels out of reach. Meanwhile, taxpayers continue to question government spending on international initiatives that they believe should take a back seat to domestic priorities. Critics argue that public money should do more to address the immediate challenges facing Canadians, including employment, housing and the rising cost of living. These decisions have contributed to frustration with the federal Liberal government. More than a decade after the party first came to power under Justin Trudeau in 2015, and now under Prime Minister Mark Carney, some Canadians are calling for a change in leadership. Social media platforms have become outlets for people to voice concerns about the country’s direction and their own financial struggles. Housing affordability is another major concern. Unemployment, stagnant household finances and rising housing costs can make it difficult for Canadians to secure stable accommodation. For many,
maintaining the standard of living once associated with life in Canada has become increasingly difficult. Jobs are disappearing in some sectors, housing remains expensive, and student loan repayments add pressure to household budgets. Immigration levels have also become a subject of political debate, particularly amid concerns about competition for jobs, housing and public services. Many young adults continue to live with their parents because they cannot afford to move out, while others spend a substantial share of their income on rent. Some Canadians are balancing multiple jobs simply to make ends meet. Economic recovery forecasts may offer hope, but recovery takes time to reach individual households. For someone who is unemployed today, the prospect of improved conditions in 2027 offers little immediate relief. People still need to pay their bills, buy groceries and keep a roof over their heads. A future recovery does not erase the hardship people are experiencing now. Housing costs can make that pressure even more severe. Ontario mortgage payments of $2,400 to $2,800 per month would consume more than half of a $4,500 monthly take-home income at the upper end of that range. That leaves less money for utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance and other necessities. After covering essential expenses, many households have little left for leisure, savings or the quality of life they hoped to achieve. Financial survival can become the priority, leaving little room to plan for the future.
As Carney’s Liberal government continues to support international commitments, critics argue that more attention and resources should be directed towards domestic needs. Each announcement involving foreign spending can intensify public frustration when Canadians feel their own concerns remain unresolved. When the next federal election arrives, Canadians will have an opportunity to decide whether they want to continue with the current direction or choose a different approach. The debate is about jobs, housing, affordability and confidence in
the country’s future. For voters seeking change, the challenge will be deciding which political leadership offers the most credible plan to address these concerns. Canadians deserve policies that support a stronger domestic economy, expand meaningful employment opportunities and make housing more attainable. The question is whether the current government can convince Canadians that it is addressing their needs, or whether voters will decide that a new direction is necessary.
Canada-Caribbean Summit opens new doors to investment PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
The Inaugural Caribbean Canadian Investment Summit and Trade Forum (CCISTF), held September 25th and 26th, 2026, at the Novotel Toronto North York, brought together: government and diplomatic representatives, investors, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, business leaders and economic development agencies. The twoday event sought to strengthen economic ties and unlock opportunities for trade and investment between Canada and the Caribbean. CCISTF describes itself as a forum bringing together government leaders, investment agencies and private-sector stakeholders to unlock high-value opportunities across the Caribbean region. Under its theme, “Bridging Markets: Unlocking Opportunities, Building Sustainable Prosperity,” the summit highlighted the importance of collaboration in creating pathways for economic growth. A Jamaican delegation led by Senator Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, participated alongside Kelli-Dawn Hamilton, CEO of the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority. Their presence reflected the importance of investment partnerships and the potential for closer cooperation between Caribbean markets and Canadian businesses. The summit’s diplomatic and gov-
ernment representation was central to its stated vision. According to CCISTF, bringing together government, diplomatic, trade, investment and business leaders would help strengthen relationships and create meaningful opportunities for two-way economic collaboration between Canada and the Caribbean. The opening remarks were delivered by Kurt Davis, Jamaica’s Consul General in Toronto. CCISTF credited the journey from an initial shared vision to the gathering of leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, government representatives and partners from across Canada and the Caribbean as an important milestone. Gerry Hopkin, Grenada’s Consul General in Toronto, founded CCISTF and serves as its chairman. During a panel discussion titled “Scaling Caribbean and Canadian Business Across North America,” he emphasized the importance of developing stronger pathways for business, investment and economic collaboration. The summit’s keynote address was delivered by Minister Hill on the first day. He highlighted Jamaica’s economic direction, the importance of Canada as a trading partner and Scotiabank’s longstanding presence on the island, which spans more than 160 years. He also praised the organizers for bringing together a diverse range of government, business and investment leaders, particularly from Canada. Minister Hill stressed the potential for Canadian investors already operating in the Caribbean to expand their presence. “We have Canadian investors who have a foothold in the Caribbean, and in Jamaica in particular, and they now want to expand. Canada is looking for new markets; we are looking for new markets and investors,” he said.
Photo Courtesy of CCISTF He also encouraged Caribbean businesspeople to make the summit an annual priority, expressing his hope that it would become a regular meeting place for those seeking investment and commercial opportunities. His remarks underscored the value of sustained engagement rather than one-time introductions. In a Facebook post published October 15th, Geraldine Stafford, Director of Strategic Partnerships (Canada and the Caribbean), and Consul General Hopkin emphasized the importance of partnerships that strengthen communities and improve livelihoods. The post highlighted collaboration, community development and sustainable progress as essential elements of leadership that puts people first. CCISTF’s broader ambition is to connect stakeholders in ways that support
local economies, empower entrepreneurs, create jobs and contribute to long-term prosperity. Achieving these goals will depend on turning discussions into practical partnerships, investment commitments and measurable economic benefits. The inaugural summit represents an important opportunity to deepen the longstanding relationship between Canada and the Caribbean. With continued cooperation, both regions can explore new markets, strengthen trade connections and encourage investment across sectors. The challenge now is to build on the relationships established at the forum and translate shared optimism into tangible results for businesses, investors and communities on both sides of the partnership.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
Online content does not always stay online BY SYDNEY WALCOTT TCN REPORTER Nowadays, many people, particularly young people, live their lives on the internet. However, what some people tend to overlook is that not everything they do on the internet will remain there. A private DM, a screenshot, a heated comment, or a TikTok video can be used against them in a court of law if used as evidence in an investigation and/or a case. Toronto-based criminal defence lawyer Sonya Shikhman, L.L.B., the founder and managing partner of Shikhman Barristers, breaks down how online content can be used as evidence in a court of law and the legal consequences that can arise. The first distinction Shikhman notes is that being offensive, inappropriate, or embarrassing online does not automatically make it criminal. From the perspective of a criminal defence lawyer, the more critical concern would be the possibility of content being relied on as evidence of an actual offence. This could include threats, repeated unwanted communications, threatening conduct, or non-consensual distribution of intimate images. Although Canadian law specifically addresses those forms of conduct, one must be cautious about leaping from screenshot to conclusion. With digital evidence, it must be determined who created it, the authenticity of the evidence, its completeness, the surrounding conversation and whether it’s been edited or taken out of context. Under the Canadian Evidence Act, if an electronic document is being introduced, the authenticity of the document must be established. It is crucial in this day and age because of how easy it is to alter, copy and manipulate digital content. A damaging screenshot does not determine the end of the analysis. What is more important is what it actually proves. Regarding relationship disputes, allegations of harassment, threats or domestic violence, a broad range of digital content can be used as evidence. Depending on the allegations, direct messages, text messages, social media posts, comments, photographs, videos, voice notes, and repeated communications can all become relevant in a case. For example, in a criminal harassment case, the Criminal Code precisely includes repeated direct or indirect communication with another person, as well as threatening conduct, provided the other elements of the offence are established. However, as a defence lawyer, Shikhman said she will never look at just one screenshot in isolation and conclude that it tells the entire story. She would also like to know what came before and after, who it was authored by, if the complete conversation is available, its authenticity, and if there was a court order or condition governing communication at the time. Shikhman notes that details can change the legal significance of a message, and with manipulated and AI-generated content becoming more sophisticated, questions surrounding authenticity and context are becoming more crucial. Legal consequences surrounding online content all depend on the offence committed. No one is convicted just for simply posting something irresponsible or offensive online. The prosecution team still must prove the elements of a recognized criminal offence beyond a rea-
sonable doubt. Depending on the circumstances, online conduct can form the basis of charges such as uttering threats, criminal harassment or distributing intimate images without consent, which are serious Criminal Code offences. For example, a criminal harassment indictment carries a maximum of 10 years; uttering threats of death or bodily harm carries up to five years; and non-consensual distribution of an intimate image also carries up to five years as well. Shikhman explains these are statutory maximums and not predictions of a sentence someone could receive in an individual case. The verdict depends on the offence committed, the facts, the person’s circumstances, their record, the harm caused and the applicable sentencing principles. For young people under eighteen who are involved in a case, they are dealt with under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The purpose of the system is to promote rehabilitation and reintegration. It does not mean there will not be any serious consequences. A minor can still face criminal proceedings, court-imposed conditions, a youth sentence and, in serious circumstances, custody. Records can remain and be available in accordance with the specific rules and time periods in the Act. However, Shikhman said she would be very reluctant to tell a young person their future is permanently ruined due to one mistake because that is not the purpose of the youth justice system. There are significant privacy protections in the Act, including restrictions on publishing the identity of a minor under the legislation. The Act also provides that once a youth sentence is concluded to no longer have an effect, under specific exceptions, the young person is not deemed to have been found guilty or convicted of the offence. Accountability matters along with rehabilitation. So, a justice system dealing with young people has to recognize both. Shikhman’s advice to young people is that what happens online does not necessarily stay online. A message sent in anger, or a private screenshotted conversation can be used as evidence. “Something that feels temporary in the moment can become part of a police investigation or court proceeding,” said Shikhman. Social media is not the place for resolving anger, a relationship dispute, or a serious conflict. Never threaten someone, repeatedly contact someone in a circumstance where the communication could become harassment, or distribute an intimate image without consent. If one is subjected to a court order or a release condition restricting communication, they need to take it seriously. Failing to comply with a release order can constitute an offence. If there is already a police investigation or criminal allegation, Shikhman advises young people that posting their side of the story online will not help them. The best thing to do is exercise restraint, understand their rights, and get proper legal advice before creating more evidence they may have to provide an explanation for later on. The internet and justice system are two distinct environments. While the internet encourages an immediate reaction, the justice system examines evidence after the fact.
NEWS & VIEWS
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NEWS & VIEWS
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Confidence Is not competence: who gets paid? SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
She uses AI at night, after the shift ends. She drafts a résumé, tightens a funding email, translates a school letter, and plans a church fundraiser. By day, she works in administration, health care support, retail, education, or her own small business. Nobody has trained her, told her what is allowed. So, she wonders, “Will this make me look lazy? Dishonest? Replaceable?” That is a rational response to a workplace that hands some people tools, mentors, and permission, while asking others to figure it out alone. The gap is not ability. Harvard’s Shorenstein Center report, Are Women Being Left Out of AI?, found that 64 percent of employed women reported no workplace AI training, compared with 49 percent of men. Women also reported less mentorship and encouragement. The report also found men named in AI headlines 14.6 times as often as women, and cited as experts 4.3 times as often, even after removing executives, founders, officials, and investors. In other words, the public con-
versation about AI is not only unequal in access. Unfortunately, it is unequal in authority. One detail should stop us cold. In the study’s fake executive test, 53 percent of men said they recognized invented AI figures, compared with 40 percent of women. That does not prove men know less. It suggests that certainty is often mistaken for expertise. We need to say this plainly: confidence is not competence. A man who says “I know how to use AI” may simply be more comfortable performing knowledge. A woman who says “I’m not sure” may be practicing the caution that good judgment requires. This is not only an American story. Statistics Canada found that women and men each reported 22 percent overall generative-AI use at work. Once occupation, industry, education, and other factors were considered, women were still less likely to use it. Toronto Metropolitan University’s research makes the local pattern harder to ignore. Nearly half of women (48.2 percent) reported no workplace AI training, compared with 40.1 percent of men. Among African Caribbean women, 37.0 percent reported no training, compared with 26.3 percent of African Caribbean men. African Caribbean women also reported lower familiarity with workplace AI programs than African Caribbean men: 74.2 percent versus 81.0 percent. So, the divide is racialized, oc-
cupational, and institutional. Think of a Caribbean-Canadian woman in Scarborough working in a clinic, a school office, a call centre, a retail chain, or a family business. She may already be using AI quietly: to write, organize, translate, schedule, or solve problems. She is rarely invited into the meeting where AI policy is decided. She is not named the “AI expert.” She is not paid for the fluency she already has. Women in the Shorenstein study reported more worry, anxiety, and fear about AI; men reported more curiosity and excitement. The easy story says women are hesitant. The honest story asks: hesitant about what? AI is arriving faster than training, workplace rules, privacy protections, and accountability. Concern can be intelligence. It can be the instinct to ask: Who owns my data? Will this tool judge my accent, my name, my neighbourhood? Will it replace the work I do, or make my work invisible? These are the questions of people whose labour has often been undervalued long before a chatbot entered the room. We do not need another panel where men explain AI to women. We need community fluency. •
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Employers should fund practical AI training during paid work hours; not after shifts, not as unpaid “upskilling.” Unions, colleges, settlement agencies, churches, and community or-
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ganizations should offer AI literacy designed for shift workers, caregivers, newcomers, and women balancing multiple jobs. Mentorship circles should pair African and Caribbean women with practitioners who understand both the technology and the workplace realities. Newsrooms, conferences, and funders should stop treating “AI expert” as a default male title. Source African women. Quote Caribbean women. Pay them for their expertise. Women can start small: learn one tool, document one task it improves, and name the skill out loud.
Reflect before you move. • Where have I already used AI without calling it AI? • What training, permission, or mentorship have I been denied? • Whose confidence gets rewarded in my workplace, and whose caution gets punished? • Who in my community needs to be in the room when AI decisions are made? • What is one AI skill I will learn, teach, or demand access to this month? AI will shape work whether we are ready or not. The question is whether Toronto will finally train, trust, quote, and pay the women who have been adapting all along.
Black Canadian Women celebrate leadership, legacy and excellence PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
It was a night filled with positive affirmations, perceptive reflections and progressive inspiration at the sixth annual 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women Awards Gala, held on Saturday, September 19th, 2026, at Woodbine Banquet Hall in Toronto. More than 600 guests attended, representing sectors including: education, law, business, politics, healthcare, technology, arts and culture, skilled trades, community advocacy and entrepreneurship. The gala welcomed LieutenantGovernor Edith Dumont and the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, alongside visionaries Dauna Jones-Simmonds and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green. As the program booklet states, “Together, the co-authors have helped build a lasting record that celebrates Black Canadian Women, preserves legacy and inspires future generations.” Under the theme “10 Years of Impact,” the publication celebrates the initiative’s sixth edition and reports
that 600 women have been recognized across six editions. Its mission is to preserve stories of achievement, leadership and service while strengthening representation and inspiring future generations. Messages from dignitaries and government officials underscored the importance of recognizing Black women’s contributions. Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated the honourees, noting that their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to others. Ontario Premier Doug Ford emphasized the role women play in building stronger communities, stating that empowering women helps uplift families and establish a strong foundation for future generations. Lieutenant-Governor Dumont also praised the authors, organizers, supporters and nominees whose efforts have sustained the initiative. She highlighted the publication’s potential to inspire young people by presenting examples of leadership and possibility. Toronto Councillor Amber Morley, representing Ward 3, EtobicokeLakeshore, reflected on the importance of mentorship. As a Black woman in government, she said, having role models such as Dr. Jean Augustine has been invaluable and continues to inspire her work amplifying Black voices. Among the outstanding honourees was Dr. Rhonda N. McEwen, who became the ninth president and
vice-chancellor of the University of Toronto in October 2025. Tanya Walker, managing partner of Walker Law, is recognized as the first Black woman from Toronto elected as a bencher of the Law Society of Ontario. Technology journalist Takara Small, a CBC national columnist, founded VentureKids Canada, which offers coding and entrepreneurship education to young people. Dr. Cynthia Maxwell, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and healthcare executive, works to advance equitable reproductive and pregnancy care for Black women. In the arts, Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu, artistic director of Obsidian Theatre, is helping shape the future of Black Canadian theatre. Theatre artist, dub poet and educator Dr. d’bi.young anitafrika has spent more than 25 years advancing Black storytelling. Education and community advocacy were also represented. Charline Grant, CEO of Parents of Black Children, advocates for educational equity. Dr. Barb Hamilton-Hinch, an eight-generation African Nova Scotian scholar, co-leads Dalhousie University’s Black Health Researchers’ Hub. Alethia Cadore, founder and CEO of Mindlike Wellness Foundation, is a registered psychotherapist, educator, researcher and community leader. Claudette Howell Rutherford, a York Region District School Board department head, also serves as vice-president of
the Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association and is a co-founder of Parents of Black Children. Kamelah Blair Sanderson, founder of Royalty Helping Hands and the Royalty Institute for TraumaInformed Practice, has developed trauma-informed frameworks addressing issues including inherited trauma and literacy suppression. Hosted by Dr. Itah Sadu, coowner of Blackhurst Cultural Centre, and Sarah Onyango, the gala featured a keynote address by Dr. Module TundeByass and performances by Kimya Hypolite and Eddie Bullen and his sons. The evening also included a bouquet presentation to Dumont and a surprise marriage proposal from the fiancé of one of the recipients. Following the celebration, Cadore expressed gratitude on Facebook, dedicating her recognition to her late parents, whose love, sacrifice and belief in her continue to guide her. Monique Daniel also celebrated her sister, Dr. Tiffany M. Gordan, praising her research, mentorship and advocacy for Black women and girls, including work addressing justice reform and gender-based violence. Together, the honourees’ achievements reflect the leadership, creativity, scholarship and community commitment that this initiative seeks to preserve for generations to come.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
NEWS & VIEWS
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Disclosure: Mental health, fear, evidence SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
There is a particular kind of exhaustion that comes from pretending you are fine when, inside, you are fighting battles nobody can see. It is the smile you offer your colleagues after a sleepless night. The carefully worded explanation for your absence. The conversation you rehearse in your head but never have because you cannot predict what will happen when the truth finally leaves your mouth. For millions of people living with mental health conditions, the question is whether speaking will cost them something they have worked hard to build: a career, a relationship, their reputation or the way someone sees them. That is where the conversation about mental health disclosure becomes complicated. The weight of being understood In an October 1st, 2026, essay published by Deconstructing Stigma, Jonathan A. Teller shares a contradiction that challenges conventional thinking about mental health advocacy. In 2021, he publicly disclosed his obsessivecompulsive disorder (OCD) as part of a national mental health campaign. Yet, during that same year, while working as a management consultant in New York, he kept his diagnosis private from his colleagues for two years. Two decisions.
One person. Neither necessarily wrong. His experience confronts an uncomfortable truth: encouraging people to speak openly about mental health can unintentionally create another burden for those already struggling. We tell people that silence feeds stigma, that sharing their stories helps others feel less alone, and that speaking out is an act of courage. These messages have value. Visibility can challenge stereotypes and remind people that mental health conditions do not erase intelligence, ambition, talent or worth. What happens to the person who is not ready to share? Do we risk treating privacy as shame, caution as cowardice and silence as a failure to heal? Nobody should have to prove their commitment to mental health awareness by making their most vulnerable experiences available for public consumption. When fear is not irrational The decision to disclose is not made in a vacuum. It happens in workplaces where people compete for promotions, families where mental illness is misunderstood, and relationships where acceptance can feel uncertain. For some, the fear of rejection is based on assumptions. For others, it comes from experience. People have been overlooked for opportunities, treated differently by colleagues or made to feel that a diagnosis somehow diminishes their professional abilities. Discrimination is not an imaginary consequence, and pretending otherwise does little to protect those at risk. Teller offers a powerful question for anyone weighing the decision: Is this fear talking, or do I have evidence? The distinction matters.
Fear predicts what someone might do. Evidence asks us to examine what they have actually done. How has a manager responded when another employee needed support? How did a family member react when someone disclosed a personal struggle? Has a potential partner demonstrated compassion when faced with difficult conversations? These questions cannot eliminate uncertainty. They can, however, help people make decisions grounded in reality rather than anxiety alone. Sometimes, the evidence really does suggest caution. You do not owe everyone your story Mental health disclosure is not a single decision that applies everywhere. Telling a trusted friend is different from sharing a diagnosis with a supervisor. Requesting a workplace accommodation is different from explaining your medical history to an entire team. People can seek support without revealing every detail of their lives. For employees who need adjustments, the conversation may focus on what would help them perform their work rather than the name of a diagnosis. The appropriate process and confidentiality protections depend on the workplace and applicable laws, but the underlying principle remains personal medical information deserves respect. The same consideration applies to school applications, professional opportunities and intimate relationships. Sharing a personal story can be meaningful, but it should be intentional, not something done because a question, an audience or a well-meaning advocate seems to demand it. There is power in deciding what to share, with whom and
when. A different kind of courage Perhaps the most important lesson is that disclosure does not always produce a dramatic transformation. Sometimes people respond with compassion. Sometimes they respond awkwardly. Sometimes nothing changes at all, and sometimes, the response hurts. When that happens, it can be tempting to interpret one person’s reaction as proof that honesty was a mistake. I want you to know that another person’s inability to respond with understanding does not determine the value of your experience or your worth. Choose your confidants carefully. Look for people who have demonstrated steadiness, not simply those with whom you share the closest bond. Support groups and other trusted support spaces can also offer a place to begin. Most importantly, give yourself permission to make a different decision in a different room. Breaking stigma means creating a world where people can speak openly without fear of punishment. It also means building a world where you are not pressured to disclose before you feel safe. We must challenge the systems that make people fear honesty, rather than placing the entire responsibility for change on those living with mental health conditions. Your story may help someone else feel less alone. It may open a door to understanding. but it remains your story. You can speak today. You can wait. You can choose privacy. The goal is not to be fearless. It is to make a conscious choice, with your well-being at the centre.
Canada must protect its sovereignty beyond America STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com
TCN COLUMNIST
According to figures cited in the National Post, 45 per cent of Canadians fear the American threat to Canada, while approximately 66 per cent reportedly see the United States not as a friend, but as a threat to our national interests and Canadian way of life. These figures reflect the concern at the heart of this argument: how can Canada protect its sovereignty and economic future amid uncertainty in its relationship with its closest neighbour? If the United States faced a comparable threat, it would be expected to assess its security risks and prepare to defend its national interests. Does Canada have plans to protect itself against a possible American invasion or economic and political pressure? Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government must consider a range of national security scenarios, although the specific claim that federal of-
ficials have developed plans for an American invasion requires confirmation. As long as President Donald Trump and his administration pursue policies that threaten Canadian economic interests, Canada must prepare for continued political and diplomatic friction. The question is: what can Canadians do to respond to a neighbour that has traditionally been an ally and trading partner? Canada’s response includes investments in infrastructure and efforts to strengthen the economy. Projects once considered too costly may become necessary as the country reassesses its economic resilience and national priorities. International alliances and trading relationships are also becoming increasingly important. Canada cannot afford to depend on a single market for its prosperity. Expanding trade with Asia and the European Union (EU) offers opportunities to reduce that dependence and create new markets for Canadian goods and services. The Canada-EU relationship already provides a foundation for this strategy through the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which has been provisionally in effect since 2017. The agreement gives Canadian businesses preferential access to the European market and creates opportu-
nities to expand trade and investment. In March 2026, Canada and the EU also launched negotiations toward a digital trade agreement, signaling continued efforts to deepen their economic relationship. The EU partnership offers Canada an opportunity to pursue greater economic stability through established trade arrangements. By contrast, changes in American trade policy can create uncertainty for Canadian businesses planning investments, hiring and expansion. Diversifying trade is therefore not simply a diplomatic exercise; it is an economic strategy intended to reduce risk. Canada should prepare for the possibility that tariffs and other trade barriers will persist, even as political leadership changes. While future relations with the United States could improve, Canadians should not build their economic security around the assumption that they will. Hope for better relations must be accompanied by practical preparation. That preparation begins at home. Canadians can support domestic producers, purchase Canadian-made goods when practical and encourage businesses to explore alternative markets. Governments can help by investing in infrastructure, improving trade connections and supporting Canadian companies seeking
customers beyond the United States. Consumers also have a role to play. Choosing Canadian products can support local businesses and workers, although consumers must consider affordability, availability and the realities of international supply chains. A sustainable economic strategy requires more than slogans; it requires coordinated action by governments, businesses and citizens. Canada and the United States share deep economic, cultural and family ties. Protecting Canadian sovereignty requires ensuring that cooperation does not become dependence and that disagreements cannot leave Canada without viable alternatives. Canadians can hope for a more stable and prosperous relationship with the United States. However, the country must also prepare for uncertainty by strengthening domestic capacity, expanding international partnerships and building an economy that can withstand external pressure. Canada’s future should not depend on the political decisions of a single neighbour. Economic independence begins when a country has the confidence, resources and trading relationships to make its own choices.
PAGE 8
NEWS & VIEWS
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
When Officers Break the Law, Who Pays? SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
On January 19th, 2026, Toronto Police Const. Elias Mouawad ran a licence-plate query through a confidential police database, but he did not do it for a lawful investigation. Months later, he stood in a Toronto courtroom and pleaded guilty to unauthorized use of a computer. On Monday, he received a conditional discharge, one year of probation and 100 hours of community service. If he completes the conditions, he will have no criminal conviction registered against him. That outcome should provoke a difficult public question: when a police officer misuses the state’s most sensitive investigative tools, why can the consequences be so uncertain, so delayed, and sometimes so light? Elias Mouawad’s case is not proof that every officer is corrupt, nor should it be treated as a verdict on colleagues who have not been tried. It lands within a long and documented pattern: officers in Toronto and across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area have repeatedly been convicted of serious crimes, then kept their jobs after internal discipline. This article will examine whether the institutions that employ, investigate, discipline and oversee police can be trusted to impose consequences equal to the power police hold. Project South began in June 2025 after York Regional Police said it disrupted an alleged conspiracy to murder an Ontario corrections manager. In February 2026, investigators announced charges against seven active Toronto officers and one recently retired officer, alongside 19 civilians, 27 accused in total. The allegations are grave: illegal access to confidential police information, alleged leaks to people connected to organized crime, bribery, obstruction of justice, drug trafficking and theft. York police have alleged that leaked information was connected to shootings, extortion and robberies. These remain allegations; most accused officers have not been tried, and the presumption of innocence applies fully. What is already established is narrower but consequential. Former Const. Derek McCormick pleaded guilty to breach
of trust and theft under $5,000 and received a 10-month conditional sentence, including five months of house arrest; unlike a discharge, that resulted in a conviction. Elias Mouawad then pleaded guilty to unauthorized use of a computer after the Crown withdrew a breach-of-trust charge. Superior Court Justice Catherine Rhinelander found that his database search represented a breach of the trust placed in police but imposed a conditional discharge after citing his early guilty plea and remorse. A conditional discharge is not an acquittal. It is a judicial finding of guilt; if probation is completed, no conviction is registered. That means no criminal record, even though the misconduct involved access to a police database, a system ordinary residents cannot legally use for private purposes. Elias remains suspended without pay and still faces a Toronto Police professional-standards tribunal, which will decide whether he remains fit to police. That hearing has not yet been scheduled. The deeper concern is historical repetition. In 2020, CBC examined Toronto Police disciplinary outcomes over roughly a decade and found 63 officers who had been convicted of crimes, but not fired after tribunal hearings. The offences included impaired driving and assaults involving handcuffed suspects or spouses. Most kept their jobs; penalties included forfeited days off, temporary demotions or other non-dismissal discipline. Only three officers were fired through the tribunal. Three years earlier, CityNews identified 59 officers across the GTHA convicted of serious crimes between 2013 and 2017, including fraud, domestic violence, assault and impaired driving. Almost all were deemed fit to remain in policing; only five were dismissed. Those findings do not establish that every disciplinary decision was wrong. Tribunals must weigh individual circumstances, rehabilitation, employment law and proportionality. When the same broad result recurs across services, years and offence types: conviction, internal hearing, continued employment, the public is entitled to ask whether “fit to police” has become a default answer rather than a rigorous test. The stakes are heightened because police misconduct is not an ordinary workplace offence. A database search can expose a person’s address, movements, associations or vulnerabilities. When such information allegedly reaches criminal networks, the harm can extend far beyond privacy: it can enable intimidation, violence and organized crime. Toronto’s present crisis of confi-
dence did not emerge from nowhere. In 1989, Ontario’s Task Force on Race Relations and Policing (created after the deaths of Lester Donaldson and Michael Wade Lawson) found that relations between police and visible-minority communities remained a critical and pervasive issue. It recommended training, monitoring and stronger attention to officers whose conduct raised concerns. In 1995, the Commission on Systemic Racism in the Ontario Criminal Justice System released a 450-page report documenting racial discrimination in policing and sentencing, including the overrepresentation of Black people in prison and concerns about differential police treatment. It recommended enforceable guidelines for police stops and questioning, monitored through community feedback. Those reports helped drive reforms, including stronger civilian oversight. Yet decades later, African Caribbean, Indigenous and racialized residents continue to report disproportionate police attention, while accountability for officers can move slowly through criminal proceedings, internal investigations and tribunal hearings. The disparity is corrosive: communities asked to accept intensive policing are also asked to wait patiently while those with state power face a process that can preserve employment, income and reputation long after allegations become public. Consider the inequality of consequences. A civilian convicted of fraud, unauthorized computer use, or breach of trust may face a criminal record that affects employment, housing, travel, immigration status and family proceedings. An officer who misuses a police database may, in appropriate circumstances, receive a discharge and later argue before a police tribunal that a conviction would unfairly end a policing career. That is not to say Elias’s sentence was unlawful or that judges must ignore rehabilitation. Courts recognize that only exceptional circumstances should justify a discharge for an officer’s breach of trust. The public is entitled to ask whether “exceptional’ is being applied consistently, and whether the badge itself becomes a mitigating factor rather than an aggravating one. The accountability system also risks delay. Criminal cases can take years. Ontario’s Law Enforcement Complaints Agency has taken over conduct investigations involving the charged Toronto officers and three suspended Peel Regional Police officers linked to Project South; no Peel officer has been charged. LECA has said related misconduct investigations were postponed
under the Community Safety and Policing Act because of parallel criminal proceedings. That sequencing may be legally necessary, but it leaves the public in a prolonged limbo: allegations circulate, trust erodes, and disciplinary answers wait. Toronto’s police leadership, the Toronto Police Services Board, LECA and elected officials should answer specific, measurable questions: • •
•
• • •
How many Project South officers will remain employed if criminal proceedings end without dismissal? What criteria will the professional-standards tribunal use to decide whether a conviction, guilty plea or admitted database misuse is incompatible with policing? Will the service publish timely, anonymized data on misconduct investigations, tribunal outcomes, delays and penalties? How will LECA protect investigations from becoming indefinitely stalled by parallel criminal cases? What independent auditing will detect improper database queries before information reaches criminal networks? How will the service address racialized communities’ longstanding evidence of disproportionate policing while also enforcing discipline internally?
Meaningful reform requires more than statements condemning corruption. It requires public reporting, independent investigations with enforceable timelines, transparent disciplinary outcomes, mandatory dismissal reviews for convictions involving dishonesty or violence, and routine audits of database access with consequences for unauthorized searches. Toronto does not need a headline that condemns before evidence is tested. It needs something harder: a system that treats a police officer’s misuse of public power as a profound betrayal, not a private employment problem to be managed quietly. Project South has already produced two guilty pleas. The first serving Toronto officer sentenced in the probe received no criminal record, despite a judge’s finding that his conduct breached public trust. The public should watch the next stage closely: who is fired, who is reinstated, and whether accountability arrives at the same speed and severity for those who wear the badge as it does for everyone else.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
NEWS & VIEWS
PAGE 9
Ontario Municipal Election: Make your vote count local leaders contributed to its development.
PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TCN REPORTER
The upcoming Ontario municipal election on Monday, October 26th, 2026, is an important one. Eligible voters across Ontario will elect mayors, councillors and school board trustees. Thousands of Ontarians have already participated in advance voting. If you have not voted yet, Election Day voting in Toronto is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Municipal elections matter because local governments make decisions affecting affordability, housing, traffic, transit, property taxes, homelessness, community safety and other services that shape our daily lives. To vote, you must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, meet the municipality’s residency or property-ownership requirements, and not be legally prohibited from voting. You must also be on the voters’ list. If your name is missing, contact your municipal clerk about adding it. Check your municipality’s official website for identification requirements and voting locations. The Ontario Municipal Election Handbook was prepared to help voters understand their rights and responsibilities. Described as “A non-partisan guide to understanding your local election, making your choice, and voting with confidence.” It was published by the Democratic Engagement Exchange at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Faculty of Arts. Community partners and
The handbook highlights issues important to voters, including: • Housing and the cost of living • Transit, roads, sidewalks and transportation • Parks, recreation, libraries and community spaces • Community safety and emergency services • Water, waste, the environment and neighbourhood health • Property taxes and local budgets • Childcare, schools and public education In Brampton, the article’s candidate list names 12 mayoral candidates: Bharat Jagruti, Patrick Brown, Nathaniel “Nate” Peart, Gurdeep Singh Dhother, Vidya Sagar Gautam, Prabh Gill, Wesley Jackson, Najma Khurram, Prabhjot Kaur Sidhu, Sandeep Somal, Paul Tarriwal and Gaurav Walia. Voters should consult the City of Brampton’s certified candidate list for the current information. In Mississauga, the article identifies: Carolyn Parrish, Bonnie Crombie and Ted Adjuik as mayoral candidates. Voters can find official election information, candidate details and voting instructions at mississauga.ca/ council/elections. Toronto’s mayoral race has also drawn considerable attention. The article names incumbent: Olivia Chow, Councillor Brad Bradford and Chris Alexander, who reportedly withdrew from the race in early October. Toronto voters should consult the City’s official candidate list for the latest information. The article also identifies 243 candidates competing across Toronto’s 14 wards. Ward 7, which includes the Humber
Photo Courtesy of Jamaica Canadian Association River–Black Creek community, is particularly relevant to local residents. The three candidates named in the article are: Lorna Antwi, a community advocate and public servant; Amanda Coombs, a mental health specialist and founder of Back to Basickz; and Anthony Perruzza, a public servant with decades of experience as a school trustee and city councillor. Community engagement has been an important part of the election campaign. On October 13th, 2026, a municipal election town hall at the Jane/Finch Centre addressed affordability, the housing crisis, equitable access to health care and education, and food insecurity. Participants also raised concerns about the fatal shooting of a young Black man and the need for adequate community resources and services. On October 8th, 2026, the Jamaican Canadian Centre hosted a gathering for Black candidates under the theme “Representation Matters: Black Voices in Municipal Politics.” The event offered opportunities to meet candidates for council and school board trustee
positions, learn about the electoral process, discuss issues affecting Black communities and connect with fellow residents. Candidates included: Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson, running for councillor in Shelburne; Yolan Williams, running for deputy mayor of Bradford West Gwillimbury; Richard Hinds, running for mayor in Ajax; and Shelly Cerrelli, running for mayor in Vaughan. Rosemarie Bryan and Dewitt Lee III were also identified as school trustee candidates. Brampton’s school board trustee and council races feature additional candidates, including Chris Campbell, Kathy McDonald, David Green, Claudio Lewis, Khushpal Singh Pawar, Celina Reyes, Stacey-Ann Brooks, Jermaine Chambers and Idris Orughu. Municipal elections are an opportunity to influence decisions close to home. Before October 26th, 2026, review the candidates, consider their priorities and confirm where and how to vote. Your community’s future deserves your attention.
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Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
FEATURE
PAGE 13
Photo Courtesy of Urszula Opitek; Photographer at LIGAS
BRANDON ROBINSON The Canadian designer transforming Polish athleisure On an autumn morning in central Kraków, a daring fashion poster on a bus shelter brought Poland’s cultural capital to a sudden standstill. The imagery was clean, minimalist, and striking, evoking the sensual simplicity of 1990s luxury campaigns. One major outdoor advertising agency hesitated after legal review and rejected the billboard entirely. Two rival operators accepted it. Within days, the dispute made headlines in Gazeta Krakowska, turning a quiet product launch into an intense national conversation about public art, modern femininity, and design boundaries. At the center of that visual controversy stood Brandon Robinson, a designer who looks unlike almost anyone else running a fashion house in Central Europe. Born in Oakville, Ontario, to a Jamaican father and a Polish mother, Brandon is the founder of LIGAS, a premium, independent women’s athleisure brand designed and manufactured entirely in Poland. His path to Central Europe was neither linear nor predictable; it was born of an appetite for risk, a deep reverence for history, and an unwavering refusal to settle into corporate complacency. Long before he ever sketched a garment or managed a factory supply chain in Krosno, Brandon learned the foundational power of self-presentation at home. His father had emigrated from Kingston, Jamaica, to Toronto at age 13 as one of six children in a family of modest means, eventually rising to serve as a Justice of the Peace. “From when I was a child, he told me to take pride in my appearance and always dress well,” Brandon recalls. That lesson clicked vividly when he was 11 years old, and his mother bought him
a tailored pea coat. Walking down the street in that coat, he was addressed as “Sir” for the very first time, a moment that revealed to him how deliberate clothing commands immediate respect. Growing up in Bradford, Ontario (a quiet town of 25,000 people north of Toronto) Brandon developed a quiet, reflective intellect. Rather than pursuing fashion in his early university years, he immersed himself in antiquity, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Classics from York University in 2018 while commuting daily from Bradford, followed by a master’s degree in Classics from the University of Glasgow. For Robinson, classical Roman and Greek literature cultivated an eye for enduring form, structure, and proportion. After finishing his graduate studies, Brandon visited Kraków and the Tatra mountains to reconnect with his maternal family roots. Expecting to stay for only six months to a year, he found himself captivated by the landscape. Surrounded by medieval castles, historic cobblestone squares, and centuries of preserved architecture, he discovered an unexpected sense of home. Yet his journey took another detour before settling into design. Brandon entered corporate finance, taking an accounting role in Poland before accepting an offer at a boutique financial services firm in Luxembourg City. From the outside, it was a textbook climb up the corporate ladder: stable, lucrative, and secure. From the inside, it felt hollow. Standing in a sleek office in Luxembourg, he realized that financial reporting could never satisfy his creative drive. He missed the texture of Poland and resolved to return on his own terms by building a business
from scratch. Analyzing the European retail landscape, Robinson spotted a clear market gap. While yoga and Pilates were booming across Poland, high-end athleisure remained underdeveloped compared to North America, where brands like Lululemon had reshaped everyday wardrobes. He decided to introduce premium activewear tailored with European sophistication. When choosing a name for his company, he turned to family memory. He named the brand LIGAS after his maternal grandmother’s maiden name, a surname tied to her father, Franciszek Ligas, from the Podhale mountain region. It represented a symbolic return: a grandson re-establishing a historic Polish family name in Central Europe through modern entrepreneurship. Launching LIGAS in October 2023 required pure adaptability. Funding early development with his finance savings, Brandon insisted on local production, sourcing fabrics and manufacturing across Poland. In a region known primarily for garment contract work, he repositioned Polish craftsmanship as a luxury asset. Navigating Central Europe as a Black man of mixed Jamaican-Polish heritage brought its own distinct dynamics. While Poland is one of the most homogeneous countries in Europe, he found the local response overwhelmingly welcoming and curious. After appearing on the popular YouTube feature Aliens in Poland, his personal narrative went viral. Local customers reached out directly, expressing that they bought his leggings to support his unique personal journey. That personal narrative gained even greater momentum fol-
lowing the Kraków billboard controversy. What began as a dispute over public advertising standards quickly translated into commercial acceleration. Within two months of the campaign, LIGAS expanded its footprint, securing new stockists in Warsaw, Paris, and Manchester. For Brandon, fearlessness is about taking decisive action when staying still becomes unbearable. His trajectory, from classics classrooms in Toronto and Glasgow to corporate offices in Luxembourg, and ultimately to fashion ateliers in Kraków, reflects an individual comfortable with constant evolution. “I think it’s important just to take the first step,” Brandon offers when asked what advice he would share with young creators hesitant to pursue ambitious leaps. “If you are confident, if you’re ambitious, you can really accomplish anything.” Today, as LIGAS expands across European boutiques, Brandon Robinson remains grounded in the values passed down through generations; combining Canadian drive, Jamaican elegance, and Polish craftsmanship into a story that is uniquely his own Photo Credit: Sanj P Photography
Written by Simone J. Smith TCN Now
PAGE 14
FOOD
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Coconut Curry Shrimp Linguine: Where Caribbean Flavour Meets Italian Tradition Two culinary worlds come together in a rich, creamy and flavourful dish that brings a little Caribbean warmth to the dinner table. There is something special about a meal that brings together flavours from different parts of the world. Sometimes, the best dishes are created when we move beyond traditional recipes and experiment with ingredients that might not ordinarily share the same plate. That is exactly what makes Caribbean fusion cooking so exciting. It allows us to take the familiar flavours we grew up enjoying and introduce them to something completely different, creating a dish that respects its roots while offering an entirely new experience. This week’s recipe, Coconut Curry Shrimp Linguine, is a perfect example of how two culinary traditions can complement one another beautifully. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce, infused with garlic, fresh thyme, ginger, aromatic spices and just enough Scotch bonnet pepper to deliver that unmistakable Caribbean warmth. Now imagine that sauce coating perfectly cooked strands of Italian linguine, bringing everything together in one satisfying dish. The coconut milk provides a smooth, creamy texture, while the curry delivers layers of flavour that make every bite interesting. It is colourful, comforting and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or an evening when you want to serve something a little different. A Journey Through Caribbean Culinary History To appreciate this dish, we should first understand the history behind some of its most important ingredients. Caribbean cuisine has always been shaped by the movement of people, cultures and traditions. African, Indigenous, European, Indian and Chinese influences have all contributed to the diverse foods enjoyed throughout the region today. What makes Caribbean cooking particularly interesting is how these influences evolved over generations. Rather than simply preserving dishes exactly as they arrived, communities adapted recipes using locally available ingredients, creating distinctive flavours that became part of their cultural identity. Curry is one of the clearest examples of this culinary evolution. During the nineteenth century, Indian indentured labourers arrived in territories including Trinidad and British Guiana, now Guyana, bringing their culinary knowledge and traditions with them. Their journey took place within a harsh colonial labour system, but the food traditions they preserved became an important part of Caribbean cultural history. Spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander and fenugreek gradually became familiar ingredients in kitchens where Indian cooking traditions blended with locally available vegetables, meats, seafood and peppers. Over time, Caribbean curry developed its own character. Today, curry chicken, curry goat, curry shrimp and countless vegetable preparations are staples in many households, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Jamaica. However, one of the beautiful things about Caribbean cuisine is that there is no single way to prepare curry. Every country, community and family has its own approach. Some prefer a deeper, earthier curry flavour, while others enjoy more heat, additional herbs or a slightly different combination of spices. Quite often, the recipe depends on who is standing in the kitchen and what they learned from the generations before them. Coconut is another ingredient that has become closely associated with Caribbean cooking. Throughout the region, coconut milk is used in everything from rice and peas to seafood stews, soups, desserts and savoury sauces. Its natural richness provides a wonderful balance to stronger spices, particularly when preparing dishes with curry and hot peppers. Instead of allowing the heat to overpower the meal, coconut milk softens the sharper flavours and creates a sauce that is both comforting and incredibly satisfying. When combined with fresh herbs, garlic and seafood, it offers the kind of flavour that makes you want to savour every bite. Bringing Italian Tradition Into the Caribbean Kitchen On the other side of the world, pasta has long been an important part of Italian culinary tradi-
tion. Linguine, which originated in the Liguria region of Italy, is a long, slightly flattened pasta traditionally paired with everything from pesto to seafood-based sauces. Its shape makes it particularly suitable for recipes where the sauce needs to cling to the pasta without overwhelming it. Unlike thicker varieties, linguine offers a delicate balance, allowing the ingredients surrounding it to remain the stars of the dish. Combining Caribbean curry with Italian pasta might seem unusual at first, but the pairing makes perfect sense when we consider how both culinary traditions approach food. Italian cooking often emphasizes good ingredients, balanced flavours and preparations that allow each component to shine. Caribbean cooking brings bold seasoning, aromatic herbs and a willingness to experiment with different combinations. Together, these approaches create opportunities for dishes that feel familiar yet refreshingly different. We have already seen how Caribbean flavours can transform everything from pizza and tacos to burgers and traditional Sunday dinners. Pasta offers another opportunity to experiment. In fact, the richness of coconut milk works exceptionally well as an alternative to traditional cream-based pasta sauces. Add a carefully balanced curry mixture, fresh shrimp and a squeeze of lime, and the result is a dish that feels indulgent without becoming unnecessarily heavy. It is not intended to replace traditional Caribbean curry or authentic Italian pasta preparations. Instead, it celebrates the possibilities that emerge when two food cultures meet. There is also something appealing about preparing a dish that introduces familiar Caribbean ingredients to people who may never have experienced them before. For someone accustomed to traditional shrimp linguine, the addition of curry and coconut milk creates an entirely new flavour profile. For someone raised on curry shrimp served with rice or roti, substituting linguine offers a different way to enjoy something they already love. That is the beauty of fusion cooking. It encourages curiosity, keeps culinary traditions relevant and reminds us that good food has always had the ability to bring people together. The Secret Is Finding the Right Balance One of the most important considerations when preparing Coconut Curry Shrimp Linguine is balancing the ingredients. We want the curry to be noticeable without dominating the shrimp, the coconut milk to create a creamy sauce without making it overly sweet, and the Scotch bonnet pepper to provide flavour without making the dish uncomfortable for those who prefer milder foods. Achieving that balance is easier than it sounds, provided we give each ingredient the attention it deserves. Shrimp is particularly well suited to this recipe because it cooks quickly and naturally absorbs the flavours around it. However, overcooking is one of the most common mistakes people make when preparing seafood. Shrimp requires only a few minutes of cooking, depending on its size. Once it becomes opaque and firm, it should be removed from the heat or incorporated into the finished sauce. Allowing it to simmer unnecessarily can produce a rubbery texture, taking away from an otherwise excellent meal. Another important technique involves cooking the curry powder before adding the coconut milk. Allowing the spices to gently toast in the oil with the onions, garlic and ginger helps develop a deeper, more rounded flavour. This step is sometimes overlooked, especially when preparing a quick dinner, but it makes a noticeable difference. The goal is not to burn the spices but to release their aroma and give the sauce a stronger foundation. The pasta also deserves attention. Cooking linguine until it is al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm, ensures that it holds its texture when tossed with the curry sauce. Reserving a little of the pasta water is another useful trick. The starch in that water helps the sauce coat the linguine evenly and allows you to adjust its consistency without adding more coconut milk or oil. Coconut Curry Shrimp Linguine Recipe Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 25–30 minutes Servings: 4 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Ingredients For the shrimp: • • • • • • • •
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 tablespoon Caribbean curry powder 1 teaspoon paprika 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the coconut curry sauce: • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter • 1 medium onion, finely diced • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger • 2 tablespoons Caribbean curry powder • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or 2 small sprigs • ½ Scotch bonnet pepper, finely minced, or less to taste • 1 can (400 mL) full-fat coconut milk, unsweetened • ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth • 1 tablespoon tomato paste • 1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice • Salt and black pepper, to taste For the pasta and garnish: • • • • • •
12 oz (340 g) linguine pasta ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water, as needed 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley or cilantro 2 green onions, thinly sliced Fresh lime wedges for serving Additional Scotch bonnet pepper, optional
Cooking Instructions Step 1: Season the shrimp • Place the cleaned shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the curry powder, paprika, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, black pepper and olive oil. Toss thoroughly until the shrimp is evenly coated. • Set aside in the refrigerator for approximately 10–15 minutes while preparing the remaining ingredients. Avoid marinating for too long because the acidity from the lime juice can begin changing the shrimp’s texture. Step 2: Prepare the linguine • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. • Before draining, reserve approximately ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the linguine and set aside. Avoid rinsing, as the remaining starch will help the curry sauce adhere to the pasta. Step 3: Cook the shrimp • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. • Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, depending on size, until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside. The shrimp will return to the sauce later, so avoid overcooking. Step 4: Build the curry sauce • Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the olive oil or butter, followed by the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. • Stir in the garlic, ginger and Scotch bonnet pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. • Add the curry powder and turmeric, stirring continuously for approximately 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly with the vegetables and spices. • Slowly pour in the coconut milk and broth, stirring until everything is well combined. Add the thyme, optional brown sugar, and a small amount of salt and black pepper. • Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to
simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Avoid boiling aggressively, as this can affect the texture of the coconut milk. Step 5: Bring everything together • Add the cooked linguine directly to the skillet, tossing gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the coconut curry sauce. • If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add a small amount of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. • Return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Add the lime juice and gently toss everything together for approximately one minute, just until the shrimp is heated through. • Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper or lime juice as needed. Step 6: Serve and enjoy • Divide the linguine between four serving plates, ensuring each portion receives a generous amount of shrimp and sauce. • Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, sliced green onions and a fresh lime wedge. Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the sauce is creamy. Making the Recipe Your Own One of the advantages of this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit individual preferences. Those who enjoy spicy Caribbean food can increase the Scotch bonnet pepper, while families preparing the dish for younger children may prefer to leave it out entirely. The curry itself will still provide plenty of flavour. For a little extra sweetness and colour, consider adding thinly sliced yellow peppers or a handful of cherry tomatoes. Spinach is another excellent addition, particularly when stirred into the sauce during the final few minutes of cooking. If shrimp is not your preferred seafood, this recipe can also work with chunks of firm white fish or even chicken, provided the protein is cooked thoroughly using the appropriate cooking time. For a vegetarian variation, mushrooms, chickpeas or a combination of colourful vegetables can create an equally satisfying meal. The coconut curry sauce is versatile enough to support several different ingredients, making it a useful recipe to keep on hand when planning meals throughout the week. For those wanting to prepare a slightly lighter version, light coconut milk can be substituted, although the finished sauce will be thinner and less rich. We recommend beginning with the full-fat version when trying the recipe for the first time, as it provides the creamy consistency that makes the dish particularly enjoyable. Whatever adjustments you choose, the important thing is maintaining a balance between the aromatic spices, coconut richness and fresh citrus. A Celebration of Flavour and Cultural Connection Food has always been about more than satisfying hunger. It carries memories, reflects history and tells stories about the communities that prepare it. Across the Caribbean, recipes have been passed from one generation to another, evolving as families moved, cultures interacted and new ingredients became available. In many ways, fusion cooking simply continues that tradition of adaptation and creativity. Coconut Curry Shrimp Linguine may not be a traditional Caribbean or Italian dish, but it draws inspiration from both culinary worlds. It demonstrates how familiar ingredients can create something entirely new without losing the characteristics that make them special. Whether you are preparing it for your family, introducing a friend to Caribbean flavours or simply looking for something different to put on the dinner table, this recipe offers plenty to enjoy. As the cooler autumn evenings settle across Canada, there is something particularly comforting about sitting down to a warm, flavourful meal. The creamy coconut sauce, fragrant curry spices, tender shrimp and perfectly cooked linguine come together to create a dish that feels both familiar and adventurous. Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity in the kitchen to discover a new family favourite. And with this week’s Caribbean fusion recipe, we think you may have found one.
HEALTH
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
PAGE 15
The heart has its reasons BY DIANA GIFFORD-JONES COMMON SENSE HEALTH The heart is a muscle that needs lifelong care and maintenance. Over the past few weeks, thanks to long weekends and extra time with family and friends, my heart and soul teamed up for a different kind of work out. Is it part of getting older? The time of year? I found myself flowing between a sweet memory that brought back true joy and an abundance of heart-clenching ruminations that a good life can so quickly be changed. What was the memory? The ruminations? What does it all mean? To the point of this column, does it do one’s health any good to brood about matters of heart and soul? The memory was brought on suddenly by a dish of chocolate ice cream. It is usually not my choice. I like vanilla with caramel, but this was excellent chocolate ice cream, and it made me swoon. I had a flashback to a time when I was about four or five years old and someone gave me my first chocolate ice cream cone at a beachside stand. I swooned then too. “What kind of heaven is this, right here in my hand, on a wafer cone?” For the past few days, I have been asking others, expec-
tantly, hoping for kindred souls, “Do you remember the first time you tasted chocolate ice cream?” Few share the memory, but it is wonderful when eyes light up and the stories come out. At the same time, the ruminations have been plentiful. The world is a mess. It has been a mess for a long time. There is little hope the scene will be cleaned up. It is depressing. Life can be good, but in the face of disasters, or when living them firsthand, life can be awful. It can jolt from good to bad in an instant, or it can drift slowly that way. How taxing on the soul when one perceives nefarious forces even in the case of a bad life getting better. Pure virtue is so uncommon. Is there any good to come of philosophizing? I am asking this in the sense of one’s own health and wellbeing. Or are we better off sticking to the easy joy of a happy memory? Psychologists have been studying this question, and the evidence offers an encouraging distinction. A review in Current Opinion in Psychology found that nostalgia (reflecting on personally meaningful memories, often involving people we care about) can promote psychological wellbeing. By contrast, research on rumination, the re-
petitive revisiting of negative thoughts, links it to a range of mental health difficulties. The difference is not between thinking about happy things and thinking about unhappy ones. It is between reflection that helps us understand our lives and thinking that leaves us trapped in the same distress. The practical advice? Enjoy the memories when they come. Tell the story, ask someone about theirs, and savour the details. When darker thoughts demand attention, give them a fair hearing, particularly if there is something to learn or something to be done. Recognize when thinking has stopped being useful. We cannot make the world virtuous by worrying about its shortcomings, any more than we can make life predictable by anticipating its cruelties. The wisest thing we can do for our health is to put down the burden of trying to make sense of everything and enjoy the chocolate ice cream. Of course, the heart muscle needs looking after, but if a spoonful of chocolate ice cream also makes the heart and soul sing, I see no reason not to enjoy it that way.
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LIFE
TCN Now | www.TCN-Now.com | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Research shows belief shapes performance BY SIMONE J. SMITH HUMAN SPECIALIST There is a moment before every unfamiliar challenge when doubt begins negotiating with possibility. I question my ability, calculate everything that could go wrong, and wonder whether I have the experience to pull it off. I have learned that sometimes, the greatest obstacle is the assumption that I am not equipped to handle it. I start this article with a question; what if believing you can succeed is part of what helps you get there? Psychological research on selfefficacy, a concept developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, suggests that people’s beliefs about their ability to perform a task influence how they approach challenges. Those who believe they can manage difficult situations are often more willing to exert effort, persist through setbacks and adjust their strategies when things become complicated. Now, I want to be clear here; belief is not a magic wand. It cannot replace preparation, resources, expertise, or opportunity. However, it can influence whether we use what we have, seek what we lack and keep going when the first attempt fails. Sometimes, the difference between giving up and
growing is the belief that another attempt is worth making. Consider what happens when you accept a project in an area where you have no previous experience. I have taken on projects without having a history of doing that particular kind of work. There is a certain vulnerability in stepping into unfamiliar territory. I know the expectations are real, the responsibility is mine, and there is no guarantee that everything will go according to plan. It would be easy to decline, telling myself that I need more experience first. After all, nobody wants to look unprepared, or risk making mistakes in front of people whose opinions matter. Yet, accepting the challenge creates a different possibility. Instead of allowing inexperience to become a verdict on my ability, I treat it as a starting point. You research what you do not know. You ask questions. You identify the skills you need to develop, seek guidance where necessary and work through problems as they emerge. You make adjustments. You learn, and somewhere in that process, something shifts. The project becomes evidence of what I can learn, solve and accomplish when I engage with a challenge rather than retreat
from it. That evidence matters. Every time I navigate an unfamiliar situation, recover from a setback, or complete something I once considered beyond my reach, I gain a concrete reason to reconsider the limits I placed on myself. Confidence becomes less dependent on positive thinking and more firmly rooted in experience. I begin to see myself differently: not necessarily as someone who knows everything, but as someone who can learn, adapt and find a way forward. This is where personal growth begins for me. It becomes a process of building self-trust through action. The challenge, however, is recognizing the difference between productive discomfort and an unreasonable expectation to succeed without support. Not every opportunity is worth accepting, and not every obstacle can be overcome through determination alone. Sometimes the smartest decision is to seek help, negotiate better conditions, or walk away. Believing in yourself should not mean ignoring reality. It should mean refusing to let uncertainty make every decision for you. That distinction is particularly important when entering new professional spaces, pursuing leadership opportunities, or attempting something that others have never seen you do. You may not have a track
record in that specific role, but you can draw on transferable skills, sound judgment, curiosity and the willingness to learn. You do not need to pretend you are an expert. You need to be honest about what you know, deliberate about what you must learn and committed to doing the work. The next time an unfamiliar opportunity presents itself, ask yourself a better question than, “Am I qualified to do this?” Ask, “What would I need to learn, build or access to give myself a genuine chance?” That question moves you from self-doubt to strategy. You may discover that you are not ready yet. Or you may discover that readiness was never going to arrive before you began. Confidence does not always come before the leap. Sometimes, it develops because you took that leap. The goal is to stop assuming you cannot do something simply because you have never done it before. Your next challenge could become proof that your abilities are not fixed, your identity is not confined to your past, and your future is not limited to what you already know. You do not have to feel fearless to move forward. You have to be willing to give yourself the opportunity to find out what you can do.
Public safety, not political control, must be the priority for policing BY HERBERT HILDEBRANDT POLITICAL PARLEY Public safety is one of the first responsibilities of government, but public safety and political control are not the same thing. Ontario’s Bill 119 risks blurring that line by giving the Solicitor General the power to impose priorities on local police service boards and require those priorities to be written into their strategic plans. The government’s argument is not frivolous. Guns, organized crime, illegal drugs, human trafficking and hate motivated violence do not respect municipal boundaries. The province has both the right and the responsibility to establish laws, coordinate enforcement and ensure that serious threats are not ignored simply because local leadership finds them politically inconvenient. However, Bill 119 goes much further than establishing a common standard. Schedule 3 says the minister may issue a directive to a police service board, either generally or in a particular case, and the board must reflect that directive in its strategic plan. The minister may also set the deadline by which the plan must be reviewed and revised. These directives would not be treated
as regulations under Ontario’s Legislation Act, meaning they would not automatically pass through the usual process governing regulations. The most troubling provision is even clearer. Under existing law, police boards preparing or revising strategic plans must consult the police chief, municipal councils, First Nations, community organizations, businesses, members of the public and groups representing diverse communities. The plan must explain what concerns were raised and how they were addressed. Bill 119 specifically says those requirements would not apply when a board revises its plan to comply with a ministerial directive. That is not a minor administrative adjustment. It turns a public planning process into a top-down instruction and that is always dangerous in the long-term. The government correctly notes that the minister would not be permitted to order an arrest, direct an investigation or tell officers how to conduct a particular operation. Operational independence would formally remain. Yet strategic plans determine objectives, priorities, performance measures, and resource planning. Anyone who controls those priorities can influence where attention, personnel and money are
directed, even without issuing an order to a single officer. It also creates a basic accountability problem for taxpayers. Toronto residents fund the police service through the municipal budget, while the police board develops the plan and City Council determines how much taxpayers will provide. If Queen’s Park can compel a change in priorities that requires more officers, technology or specialized units, residents deserve to know who made the decision, what it will cost and who will answer for the results. Authority and fiscal responsibility should never be casually separated. This matters in Toronto, where policing must respond to gang violence, auto theft, hate crimes, demonstrations, mental health crises, and deeply rooted concerns about racial profiling. Black, Caribbean, Indigenous, immigrant and other racialized communities are not asking for weaker policing. They want effective protection from violence and intimidation, but they also have every reason to demand transparency when enforcement priorities are established. It is particularly difficult to defend a law that names diverse communities as necessary participants in ordinary police planning, then allows their consultation rights to
disappear when the minister intervenes. The math is simple. Bill 119 contains 16 schedules, but this one provision could transfer meaningful influence over every affected local strategic plan to one provincial minister. The current minister may exercise that power responsibly, but democratic safeguards are not written for the politician we trust. They are written for the politician we do not trust. If Ontario believes this authority is necessary, it should add firm limits. Every directive should be published with written reasons, tied to clear statutory criteria, presented to the legislature and subject to an expiry date. Affected boards and communities should be consulted, except in a narrowly defined emergency, and boards should publicly report how the directive changed priorities, staffing, and spending. Strong policing requires clear authority, but legitimate authority requires robust accountability. Public safety should never depend on quiet directives, suspended consultation, and trust in one officeholder. If a policing priority is strong enough to override a local board, the government should be strong enough to defend it openly before the public.
LIFE
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | www.TCN-Now.com | TCN Now
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Safeguarding homes: Canada’s new strategy for affordable housing BY JAY BRIJPAUL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST Canada’s housing crisis has left countless families scrambling to find affordable housing. While building more homes is necessary, a new federal strategy recognizes that protecting the affordable rentals we already have may be the fastest and most effective way to help people now. The $1.5-billion Canada Rental Protection Fund (CRPF) is an ambitious federal initiative that helps non-profits, cooperatives, and Indigenous organizations purchase existing rental buildings and keep rents affordable. It addresses a troubling reality: when affordable homes are lost, whether to rising rents, redevelopment, or new ownership, they are almost impossible to replace. This loss can quickly displace vulnerable tenants from their communities and deepen the housing crisis. The idea is not without precedent. British Columbia launched a similar Rental Protection Fund, enabling non-profits to purchase more than 2,000 at-risk rental homes. The federal government, through the CRPF and its manager, the Canadian
Housing Acquisition Fund (CHAF), is scaling this approach across the country. In Ontario alone, about 239,000 households live in community housing, and the pressure is especially acute in the Greater Toronto Area, where rents far outpace incomes. For families paying $1,500 or $1,800 a month, losing their home can have devastating consequences; finding another at that price is impossible. The CRPF is more than a funding source. Developed with expert input, it aims to protect 7,000 affordable homes over five years and reinvest repayments to save even more in the future. The fund offers flexible financing, enabling community housing providers to acquire, renew, and maintain properties for the long term. Keeping housing affordable is not just about rents. Most of Canada’s affordable homes were built before 1995 and urgently need upgrades; from new roofs and elevators to improved energy efficiency. Limited rental income makes it difficult for providers to cover these costs. Not every building qualifies. Properties must be well maintained and financially viable, and each application undergoes
rigorous review. This is especially important in high-cost areas like the GTA, where older rentals are prime targets for redevelopment. By enabling community housing providers to purchase and maintain these buildings, the initiative acts quickly to protect what is already working. Apartment buildings are often valued based on their income, so sellers may raise rents before selling to boost property value. Some buildings have long-term tenants paying below-market rents. They do not qualify for subsidized rent, but under current rental rules, they cannot be evicted. While this approach has worked in B.C., it may not always translate smoothly elsewhere; community organizations that buy buildings may inadvertently make some groups feel excluded. Some experts suggest going even further. For maximum impact, the federal government could focus funding on cities with the highest cost of living, take a more active role in acquiring properties directly, and then hire professional management companies to operate them under strict affordability and maintenance guidelines. Upgrading the current affordable
housing stock is crucial. Investments should target necessary repairs and, where possible, redevelop properties to accommodate more low-income families. Introducing incentives that help residents transition to homeownership (such as rent-to-own programs) can help families build equity and make the system more dynamic and supportive. Canada’s new approach to protecting affordable housing will not solve the crisis overnight, but by preserving what we already have and investing in long-term solutions, it offers hope to families struggling with high rents and helps keep communities intact. The path forward is complex, but with the right tools and willpower, more Canadians can have a safe, affordable place to call home. The federal initiative is a bold step, but we must also address the root causes of poverty that leave so many families struggling. If we can develop a model that empowers families to achieve financial independence, Canada may eventually reduce the need for additional affordable rental housing.
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