The BCCA Presents: Inaugural Community Gala and Award Ceremony Fundraiser: Celebrating Black Excellence

Community Gala - Event Overview

 Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating Black excellence, featuring awards, performances, and a keynote by Dr. June Francis. This event honors the achievements of Black students, leaders, and community partners.

The British Columbia Inaugual Community Gala and Award Ceremony will serve as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Black community in British Columbia. – Tasha Clarke, Co-founder of BC Community Alliance

The evening will highlight BCCA’s commitment to fostering leadership, community development, and advocacy for Black youth and their families. This Gala serves as both a celebration and a call to action, inviting supporters to continue contributing to BCCA’s Mission.

 

Agenda – Main Gala Program:

  • 7:00 PM – Gala Officially Begins
    Marie Alemi, our Youth Host, opens the evening by welcoming all guests to this inaugural event.

  • 7:05 PM – Opening Remarks
    Introductory remarks setting the tone for the evening and sharing the significance of the event.

  • 7:10 PM – Land Acknowledgment
    Recognition and respect for the Indigenous territories on which we gather.

  • 7:15 PM – Black Settlers Acknowledgment
    Honoring the history and contributions of Black settlers in British Columbia.

  • 7:20 PM – Housekeeping Announcements
    Overview of event flow, facilities, and key information for guests.

Segment 1: Performances & Awards:

  • 7:30 PM – Performance: Spoken Word by Marlo Browne
    A powerful spoken word piece celebrating resilience and community.

  • 7:45 PM – Buffet Dinner Service Begins
    Guests are invited to enjoy dinner, featuring dishes from local Black-owned businesses Aboki Grill, Vansuya, Calabash, Dan’s Kitchen and Kula Foods.

  • 8:00 PM – Awards Presentation:

  • Most Active Donor AwardPresented at 8:00 PM – Honoring a key donor for their ongoing commitment and support.

  • Most Active Volunteer AwardPresented at 8:05 PM – Recognizing outstanding volunteer contributions.

  • Best Dressed AwardPresented by Okoko Cosmetiques at 8:10 PM – A fun award celebrating style and elegance.

  • Community Trailblazer AwardPresented by BCCA Mariah Mussassa at 8:15 PM – Honoring a leader who has significantly impacted the community.

  • 8:20 PM – Performance by Lord Nation
    An inspiring live music set by the talented Lord Nation.

Segment 2: Presentation & Youth Awards:

  • 8:30 PM – SSLP Presentation
    Solange Umugwaneza, SSLP presenter, highlights the Supports for Student Learning Program’s impact on youth.
  • 8:40 PM – Student Leader AwardPresented by Vancity Bank at 8:40 PM – Celebrating exceptional leadership by a student in our work.
  • 8:45 PM – Parent Leader AwardPresented by Vancity Bank at 8:45 PM – Recognizing a parent for their leadership and advocacy.
  • 8:50 PM – Performance by African Friendship Society – An ensemble of African Dance Showcase Trio

Segment 3: Call to Action & Final Awards:

  • 9:10 PM – Call to Action & Community Partnership AwardPresented by Brian Seremba
    Inviting guests to join the mission, followed by honoring a community partner for impactful collaboration.
  • 9:15 PM – SSLP Top Sponsor AwardPresented at 9:15 PM – Celebrating the top sponsor supporting our youth initiatives.
  • 9:25 PM – SSLP Award WinnersPresented at 9:25 PM – Recognizing outstanding achievements by SSLP students.
  • 9:30 PM – Empowerment AwardPresented at 9:30 PM – Honoring a community member who has empowered others through their actions.
  • 9:35 PM – Keynote Speaker
    An inspiring keynote address by Dr. June Francis, focusing on the future of Black empowerment and equity in BC.

  • 9:50 PM – Closing Remarks
    Final thoughts and gratitude for attendees, sponsors, and volunteers.

  • 10:00 PM – DJ Drac – Dancefloor opens
    Music & Dancefloor 

Additional Notes

Charity & Impact
All proceeds will go towards BCCA Family Services Program including Scholarship Endowment Fund with Vancity Foundation , removing barriers to access for Black youth and their families.

    Date

    November 16, 2024

    Time

    7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

    Location
    455 Granville St, Vancouver, BC

    Honoring Excellence

    The ceremony will recognize key individuals and organizations for their leadership, generosity, and community service. The awards are designed to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond to drive positive change in their communities.

    Categories include:

    2024

    Co-Founders Award

    Recognising outstanding contributions to community from a duo or group to champion a cause.

    Presented by Co-founder(s)

    2024

    Top Sponsor Award

    Acknowledging exceptional support and partnership in advancing our mission to fostering social change.

    Presented by SSLP Student.

    2024

    Best Dressed Award

      This award and $150 will go to the individual or group with outstanding style and elegance.

    Presented by BCCA Sponsor.

     

    2024

    Most Active Volunteer Award

    Recognizing outstanding contributions to community for their consistent dedication and community service.

    . Presented by Co-founder of BCCA

     

    2024

    Most Active Donor Award

    Acknowledging exceptional support and partnership in advancing our mission through monthly giving.

    Presented by Co-founder of BCCA

     

    2024

    Student Leader Award

    Recognizing exceptional student achievement in academics, leadership, and community involvement.

    Presented by SSLP Student

    Nomination Form

     

    2024

    Community Partnership Award

    Celebrating the organization whose partnerships have positively impacted the Black community.

    Presented by Co-founder of BCCA

     

    2024

    Community Trailblazer Award

    Recognizing a visionary leader making significant strides in social change.

    Presented by SSLP Volunteer

     

    2024

    Parent Leader Award

    Recognizing a parent for outstanding leadership in advocating for youth.

     Presented by SSLP Student

    Nomination Form

     

    Dr. June Francis

    Dr. June Francis is a distinguished advocate for Black excellence and a prominent figure in the community. With a career spanning over two decades, she has been a relentless champion for equity and inclusion, particularly in educational and corporate settings. As a professor at Simon Fraser University and the Co-Director of the Institute for Diaspora Research and Engagement, Dr. Francis has dedicated her life to empowering marginalized communities through education and policy reform. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Community Trailblazer Award for her outstanding contributions to social justice.

    Community Impact

    Transforming Lives Through Education and Support

    Phone

    (778)-873-6510

    Address

    BC Community Alliance, 455 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1T1

    Join Us in Making a Difference: Secure Your Tickets Today!