On September 10th, 2026, The Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) recently brought together members, volunteers, partners, staff and community supporters for our 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), an opportunity to reflect on our progress, celebrate the people behind our work and look ahead to the next chapter of impact across Canada.
Guided by our commitment to “Stronger Together, Nothing About Us Without Us,” FBC remains focused on advancing the social, economic, political and cultural interests of Canadians of African descent.
Bringing Our Community Together
The AGM was hosted by Gloria McMayoni, FBC’s Bilingual Communications Assistant, who guided attendees through an evening of reflection, organizational updates, governance and celebration.
The AGM was organized into three key sections: community engagement, the official business meeting and volunteer recognition,each providing an opportunity to showcase a different part of FBC’s work and the people who make that work possible.
Christopher Thompson, FBC’s Executive Director, shared the Executive Annual Report and reflected on FBC’s progress, impact and continued national growth. His remarks reinforced the importance of building on the organization’s momentum while continuing to create meaningful opportunities and support for Black communities across Canada.
Impact Across Canada
At the heart of this year’s AGM was impact. FBC continues to expand its reach across Ontario. Through entrepreneurship, education, employment, health, advocacy and community-building initiatives, thousands of individuals have connected with FBC programs, resources and opportunities.
Our 2025 impact included:
- 395 participants reached through the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)
- 314 students supported through the Student Support for Learning Program (SSLP)
- 93 participants engaged through the Youth Employment Skills Program (YESS)
- 863 participants reached through Black Builders
- 1,906 general members connected to our growing national community
- 7,800+ newsletter subscribers
Behind every number is a person, student, entrepreneur, family or community connected to new opportunities, resources and support.
Welcoming Our New Board Chair, Jose Wilson
The AGM also marked an important leadership milestone as we welcomed Jose Wilson as FBC’s new Board Chair.
Based in Toronto and entering his fifth year of service with FBC’s Board, Jose brings valuable organizational knowledge and experience to the position.
Jose also led the business portion of the AGM, guiding members through the formal governance proceedings, including the approval of the AGM agenda, previous meeting minutes, Board slate, audited financial statements and auditing firm.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Robert Tyndale for his remarkable commitment to FBC, including six years of Board service and an additional year as Past Chair. His service has been an important part of FBC’s growth and evolution.
A Special Audit Presentation
Attendees also received a surprise visit from members of FBC’s audit team, who provided a brief and informative presentation about the auditing process and what organizations can expect throughout an audit.
The presentation was led by Celia Meikle, CPA, CA, LPA of GMS, with support from Sedinam Agbotui, ACCA, PMP, Audit Team Lead at GMS Accounting Services.
Celia and Sedinam walked attendees through the audit process, explaining what to expect, the different stages involved and the importance of strong financial practices, transparency and organizational accountability.
We extend a special thank-you to Celia Meikle and Sedinam Agbotui for joining us and sharing their expertise with the FBC community.
Celebrating the People Behind the Impact
A special part of the AGM was dedicated to recognizing the volunteers who contribute their time, talents and expertise to FBC.
The Volunteer Recognition portion was led by Sasha Lovell, providing an opportunity to celebrate FBC’s past, present and future volunteers and acknowledge the important role they play in moving our mission forward.
A particularly special moment was the presentation of the FBC Change Maker Award to Jaiden Bates, a Bachelor of Commerce student specializing in Accounting and Finance at the University of Toronto and an intern with Deloitte and FBC.
Congratulations to Jaiden Bates, our 2026 FBC Change Maker Award recipient!
Jaiden’s recognition was a reminder that FBC’s impact is strengthened by individuals who choose to contribute their skills, time and energy to building stronger communities. Our volunteers are an essential part of what makes our work possible.
Stay Connected and Be Part of What’s Next
FBC’s impact is powered by community, and there are many ways to become part of it.
- Become a general member at no cost, gaining access to FBC’s supporter network as well as opportunities to participate in volunteer roles and Board subcommittees.
- Those interested in becoming paid members can join for $25 per year, which includes voting rights at Annual and Special General Meetings and opportunities to participate more directly in FBC’s governance.
- You can also get involved by volunteering with FBC, with opportunities across events, staff support, research, fundraising, government and community engagement, and other areas of our work.
- Joining the FBC newsletter is one of the easiest ways to keep up with our latest programs, events, opportunities, community stories and organizational news.
Please visit this link for more information: https://fbcfcn.ca/get-involved/
Stronger Together
The 2026 AGM was more than an annual meeting. It was a celebration of impact, growth, leadership, service and community. As we look toward 2027, FBC enters its next chapter with a growing national community, an even stronger organizational foundation and a continued commitment to creating opportunities and amplifying Black voices across Canada.
Nothing About Us Without Us. Stronger Together.
