What is a Black Space?
There is no one definition however, a Black Space throughout history has been a space for respite and revival. A space to counteract daily injustices, oppression and violence. A space to learn, to dream, to express, and to actualize.
The Black Space Summit & Symposium calls artists, activists, educators and industry professionals together for the purpose of honouring of our heritage, celebrating our culture, and empowering our community.
BLACK SPACE SUMMIT & SYMPOSIUM EVENTS
BLACK SPACE SUMMIT & SYMPOSIUM EVENTS
Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Awareness in the African Descent Community
Join us for an empowering and insightful conversation addressing the mental health challenges and triumphs within the African descent community. This panel discussion brings together mental health professionals, community leaders, and advocates to explore the unique cultural, historical, and systemic factors that shape mental well-being. Through candid dialogue, we’ll unpack stigmas, discuss access to culturally competent care, and highlight pathways to healing and resilience. Whether you’re seeking tools for self-care, insights into breaking generational cycles, or ways to support loved ones, this event offers a safe space for education, reflection, and connection.
Let’s break the silence, spark meaningful change, and reimagine what thriving mental health looks like for our community. See Community for more details.
Roots of Resilience: Afro-Indigenous Foods and Reciprocal Land Practices – (Panel)
Discover the profound wisdom and sustainability at the intersection of African and Indigenous food and land traditions in this dynamic panel discussion. Leaders in farming, culinary arts, and cultural preservation will delve into the ancestral practices that have nurtured communities for generations. Explore how Afro-Indigenous knowledge systems honor the land, promote food sovereignty, and resist the impacts of colonization and industrial agriculture. Learn about the resurgence of these practices in addressing modern challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and community health.
Join us to celebrate the resilience, innovation, and interconnectedness of these traditions, and uncover how they can inspire a more sustainable and equitable future for all. See Community for more details.
Honouring the Legacy: Cultural Preservation and Celebration in African Descent Communities -(Panel)
Immerse yourself in a powerful discussion on the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich, diverse cultures of the African diaspora. This panel brings together historians, artists, and cultural advocates to explore the vibrant traditions, stories, and legacies that shape our collective identity. Through dialogue, we’ll uncover the challenges of cultural erasure, the role of art and storytelling in safeguarding heritage, and the power of celebration in fostering unity and pride. Discover how communities worldwide are reclaiming their narratives and ensuring their traditions thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Join us for an inspiring exploration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring beauty of African descent cultures. See Community for more details.
Vision to Victory: Creative Entrepreneurial Opportunities (Panel)
Step into a world of innovation and possibility at this inspiring panel discussion featuring trailblazers in business, arts, and tech from the African descent community. Our panelists will share their journeys of turning creativity into thriving enterprises, navigating systemic challenges, and building legacies of empowerment. Explore the intersection of art and commerce, learn strategies for leveraging technology, and uncover resources to support entrepreneurial success. Whether you’re an aspiring business owner, a creative seeking to monetize your craft, or simply looking to be inspired, this event is a celebration of ingenuity, resilience, and the limitless potential of Black visionaries.
Be part of the conversation as we spotlight the power of community-driven innovation and reimagine what success looks like in the modern era. See Community for more details.
Reimagining Black Spaces: A Community Conversation for the Future – (Talk Back)
Join us for an inspiring dialogue on the revitalization of Hogan’s Alley, the historic heart of Vancouver’s Black community. The legacy of Hogan’s Alley, once a vibrant hub for Vancouver’s African descent community, remains a poignant reminder of resilience, culture, and the impacts of systemic marginalization. As we look toward the future, we invite you to a collaborative conversation centered on the restoration and revitalization of this historically significant neighborhood. This gathering will explore:
• The cultural and historical contributions of Hogan’s Alley and its community.
• Visions for rebuilding inclusive, sustainable, and culturally vibrant Black spaces in Vancouver.
• Opportunities to center the voices, stories, and aspirations of those most affected.
This is a space for open dialogue, reflection, and co-creation. Whether you are a resident, advocate, or ally, your insights and perspectives are crucial in shaping a community-driven vision for Hogan’s Alley and the broader Black community in Vancouver. See Community for more details.
Redefining Possibilities: Creative Leadership and Community Engagement - (Workshop Online)
The Redefining Possibilities workshop focuses on the cultivation of leadership skills within creative industries, emphasizing the power of collaboration in community-driven initiatives. In partnership with Black Mental Health Week and Afro Van Connect society this workshop will involve:
Creative Leadership Development through exploring innovative approaches to leadership in artistic and cultural contexts.
Equipping participants with tools to lead projects, teams, or movements that reflect their values and unique perspectives. *Community Engagement Strategies
Encouraging participants to connect their work to their communities in meaningful ways. Highlighting the importance of cultural identity, storytelling, and grassroots efforts in fostering community empowerment. Interactive Session designed to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire action. Focus on Afro-diasporic Creativity. Celebrating Black cultural heritage and addressing challenges faced by the Afrodiasporic creative community. By redefining what’s possible, participants are inspired to break barriers, innovate within their fields, and drive change in their communities.
Afro Food Salon: Flavours of The Africa Diaspora
Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience at the Afro Food Salon, a celebration of African descent cuisine and culture. This vibrant event brings together three exceptional Afro-diasporic food agents who are redefining the culinary landscape with their passion for food, culture, and community.
Each chef will offer a unique opportunity to taste their dishes, inspired by traditions from across the African continent and its global diaspora, while sharing the stories, techniques, and cultural heritage behind their creations. From bold West African spices to soulful Caribbean flavors and innovative Afro-fusion dishes, this is more than just a tasting—it's a journey through history and heart.
Come savor the richness of the African Diaspora, engage with the chefs in intimate conversations about their craft, and discover how food connects us all. Whether you're a food lover, a cultural enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, the Afro Food Salon promises to nourish your soul and palate alike.
Be part of this extraordinary celebration where food meets culture, and love for African descent cuisine takes center stage!
See Community for more details.
Black Space Jam
The Black Space Jam (BSJ) is a live performance showcase that provides local and international artists of African Descent a platform to share and promote their artwork. This showcase intentionally amplifies, celebrates, and centers Black creatives and the Black Experience. The BSJ was created to enhance the visibility of African descent youth within our local arts and culture community. This platform was made by artists for artists to create opportunities for skill cultivation and brand promotion. See Community for more details.
Black Space Media is dedicated to establishing a network of community members, organizations, and institutions that are focused on advancing equity, inclusion, and diversity through learning together, aligning, and integrating our actions to achieve systems level change, collective impact, and healing.