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Black History Month is a time to celebrate Black culture through music, poetry, art, and food. To commemorate Black excellence CUE students hosted a Gala on Friday, February 17 under the theme “Black Gold.”

The night celebrated Black art, poetry and music through history, including genres like Hip Hop, Dancehall, Afrobeats, Rap and other music influenced by Black artists. Music from Black artists has shaped every corner of the music industry. It has always been a powerful avenue for telling Black stories and has been a way to connect people no matter their background. 

This was the second Gala hosted by the CBSA, a highly diverse group that began four years ago when university students saw a need to have an inclusive space that welcomed all students – and specifically Black students. Juwa, who is Sudanese decent, says the CBSA is made up of people from all areas of the globe, including the Caribbean, Malawi, Jamaica, Guinea, Nigeria and The Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“The group is about igniting positive changes that make a difference in their communities,” said Juwa Modi, vice-president of administration of the Concordia Black Student Association (CBSA).

Juwa says that amongst the other Black student associations around Edmonton, there is a very strong network. “We all support one another and we often collaborate and have joint events with other universities,” she says. 

Juwa says the Concordia community has been a welcoming and helpful place for the CBSA and she wanted to thank Concordia’s Student Association (CSA) for their support. “I appreciate the support of the CSA, they have never let us down when we needed help and support.”

Q & A with members of the CBSA

Jordan Plunkett

Program/Year:

Major in IT,  Minor in Business. 2nd Year out of a four year study

Hometown/country: 

Jamaica, Kingston

CBSA role: 

CBSA President

Career Interest: 

I would wish to become the leader/owner of a successful game/Web developing company.

How are you celebrating Black History Month this year? And, why do you feel celebrating Black History Month is important? 

I’m celebrating Black History month this year by, trying out the different foods for different cultures, and going to our CBSA Gala on February 17.

How has being a member of the CBSA contributed to your student experience?

It has provided me with the opportunity to be more friendly with others, to learn about people’s experiences and help to make there campus life more exciting.

Is there an inspiring Black person from history you admire and why? 

I admire Bob Marley of course. Ever since I was a child in Jamaica, his music was iconic since he is a very well loved singer and visionary, and whenever his music is put on, you just feel the urge to sing along.

Aissatou Diallo 

Program/Year:

Bachelor of Science in Biology 2nd year

Hometown/country: 

Guinea,Conakry

CBSA role: 

Vp of Events

Career Interest: 

Medical/Lab Technician

How are you celebrating Black History Month this year? And, why do you feel celebrating Black History Month is important? 

This year I’m celebrating Black History Month by reflecting on black history and its past, present and future. Celebrating black history is important because it allows the young generations to know that despite the racism we face/faced we’ve achieved so much, and are essential in every aspect of life. 

How has being a member of the CBSA contributed to your student experience?

Being part of the CBSA has allowed me to connect with a multitude of people in different stages of life, therefore increasing my student experience exponentially.

Is there an inspiring Black person from history you admire and why?

An historical person I admire is Rosa Parks because she was a trailblazer that stood her ground alone without hesitation or fear. 

Ayomide Olasoju

Program/Year:

Bachelor of Science 2nd year

Hometown/country: 

Nigeria

CBSA role: 

Vp Marketing

Career Interest: 

Forensic Scientist

How are you celebrating Black History Month this year? And, why do you feel celebrating Black History Month is important? 

I’m celebrating Black History by attending the CBSA Gala this year, and it is important because it shows that the black people are still appreciated and we celebrate having our freedom.

How has being a member of the CBSA contributed to your student experience?

The CBSA has helped me meet new people.

Is there an inspiring Black person from history you admire and why? 

The person I admire is Nelson Mandela, because he played a big role in helping the Black people of South Africa obtain their freedom.