The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) gathered community members, partners, youth, and supporters from across the country for its impactful 2025 Annual General Meeting. Hosted by Bilingual Communications Assistant Gloria McMayoni, the AGM opened with an inspiring recap of the 3rd Annual Impact Gala and immediately set the tone for celebration, unity, and purpose. Attendees were reminded of FBC’s national mission to advance the social, economic, political, and cultural interests of Canadians of African descent, a mission grounded in the organization’s guiding mantra: “Stronger Together, Nothing About Us Without Us.”
The AGM focused on three main components: Member and Community Engagement, the Business Meeting, and Volunteer Recognition. Throughout the evening, participants received an overview of FBC’s national impact, program outcomes, and organizational development over the past year, presented through the lens of FBC’s four pillars: Total Health, Criminal Justice Reform, Employment Development, and Education (Lifelong Learning).
The meeting also included an update on FBC’s upcoming charitable status (effective April 2026). Board Chair Robert Tyndale opened the business portion of the meeting focusing on reviewing reports, approving motions, and addressing key organizational decisions, while the Volunteer Recognition segment was led by Sasha Lovell, who acknowledged the meaningful contributions of volunteers and their integral role in advancing FBC’s work.
Not Goodbye, Just a New Chapter
Tyndale also announced that he will be stepping down as Board Chair after years of dedicated service and leadership in advancing the present and future of Black Canadians. FBC extends sincere gratitude for his contributions and will miss his leadership greatly.
Executive Director’s Remarks During the Meeting
Executive Director Christopher Thompson delivered a compelling and detailed Annual Report presentation summarizing the organization’s 2024 impact. With programs serving youth, students, entrepreneurs, and community members across several provinces, FBC’s reach continues to expand. This past year alone:
- 245 entrepreneurs were supported through the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)
- 247 students received resources through the Student Support for Learning Program (SSLP)
- 93 youth participated in the Youth Employment Skills Strategy (YESS)
- 685 community members engaged through the Black Builders Network
- 1,774 general members joined the national movement
- 7,600+ Canadians subscribed to the national newsletter to stay informed
Looking ahead
FBC announced ambitious 2026 goals: engaging 150 more youth through YESS, supporting an additional 100 entrepreneurs through BEP, expanding the Public Policy Committee to 15+ members across multiple provinces, offering more bursaries to high school students, diversifying income streams, and advancing national advocacy on public health equity, policing, sustainable jobs, and justice reform. These commitments reflect the organization’s long-term vision: building systems in which Black Canadians can thrive, lead, and shape policy.
The AGM concluded with the Volunteer Recognition segment, honouring dedicated volunteers including the 2025 FBC Changemaker Award recipient, Karina Deepnarine and celebrating the individuals who make FBC’s work possible. The night closed with final remarks from Executive Director Thompson, thanking staff, volunteers, and attendees for their unwavering support and inviting the community to stay connected through the FBC website, newsletter, and social media channels.
Membership is power
Becoming a member is one of the most meaningful ways to support FBC’s national impact. General Membership is free and takes only one minute, while Paid Membership ($25 annually) grants voting rights at AGMs and provides a pathway to leadership roles within the organization. To learn more or join today, visit:
Become a General Member: https://fbcfcn.ca/get-involved/
Become a Paid Member: https://fbcfcn.ca/get-involved/
As we look forward to a new year of growth, service, and impact, the Federation of Black Canadians extends heartfelt gratitude to every attendee, volunteer, youth leader, community partner, donor, and supporter who continues to stand with us. Together, we are building a stronger future,one where Black Canadians are represented, resourced, and empowered nationwide.
