About Us
SLCBC is a vibrant and inclusive Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Black/African community and promoting cultural heritage in the province of British Columbia, Canada. Founded to foster a sense of belonging and unity among Sierra Leoneans living in BC, SLCBC has emerged as a leading community organization, providing support, resources, and opportunities to the larger black community in BC.
Our mandate is a commitment to enriching the lives of the Black/African community and promoting cultural diversity in BC. From hosting impactful cultural events and celebrations to providing educational and social support services, SLCBC is making a real difference. We strive to create a strong sense of community and connection among the communities, preserving and celebrating the rich Black/African cultural heritage and promoting intercultural understanding and collaboration with other communities.
At the heart of our organizational ethos is a steadfast dedication to fostering unity, empowerment, and resilience within the community. Through advocacy, outreach, and collaboration with local partners and stakeholders, SLCBC is actively addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by Blacks/Africans in BC. We are a community of strength, equally committed to promoting social cohesion and integration within the broader Canadian society, demonstrating our dedication to a diverse and inclusive Canada.
Driven by our inclusivity, respect, and solidarity values, SLCBC continues to work tirelessly towards building a stronger, more connected Black/African community in BC.
OUR HISTORY
Re-established in 2015, SLCBC emerged in response to the growing number of Sierra Leoneans and Africans immigrating to British Columbia in the mid-1990s. Since its inception, the organization has played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of its members and has developed a robust network of partnerships with other organizations, businesses, and government agencies to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Our Vision
SLCBC envisions building an inclusive and caring community that promotes a sense of belonging, integration, growth, and contribution to the larger Canadian society. We aspires to be a beacon of support and a cultural bridge, fostering understanding and unity among diverse communities.
Our Mission
At SLCBC, our mission is to empower the Sierra Leonean community and the Black/African community in British Columbia to become active and engaged members of Canadian society while preserving our rich cultural identity. We are committed to fostering a sense of community, celebrating diversity, and providing essential services to facilitate the successful integration of newcomers, refugees, and immigrants.
Our Purpose
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We advance education and increase the public's knowledge and appreciation of the art, culture, history, languages, and traditions of Sierra Leoneans and the Black/African diaspora in BC.
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We provide education and other support services to immigrants and refugees in need, including employment training, job search activities, translation services, citizenship courses and information programs on Canadian culture and life.
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We support activities that strengthen the African/Black community through capacity building to identify and eliminate barriers to full participation in Canadian society.
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We help to address socio-economic challenges, reduce hunger, and create a positive impact on both our community and the broader society through our Community Kitchen Social Enterprise initiative with the goal of fostering community well-being, promoting food security, and empowering individuals and families through culinary enrichment.
Our Values
It takes a unique mix of people to make us who we are. We value the different perspectives and backgrounds that we all bring. This makes Canada and British Columbia, in particular, a unique and flourishing place to call home.
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Community – We support a healthy and welcoming community that encourages everyone's sense of belonging, personal development, and contribution.
Diversity – We support and empower all people, regardless of their background, social position, gender, orientation, race, culture, or ethnicity.
Excellence – In all we do, we are dedicated to providing high-quality services and continuous learning.
Relationships – We put people first. We establish bonds by treating each other with respect, decency, and tenderness.
Sacredness of Life – Life is sacred to us; we consider all life valuable and deserving of nurturing.
Stewardship – For the benefit of the community, we use all resources in an accountable and responsible manner.
"There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about." – Margaret J. Wheatley
Executive Team
Albert Mackoty
President
Patrick Bunduka
Vice President
Valda Kai-Kai
Communications Secretary
Lovette Roberts
Organizing Secretary
Admire Agbayewa
Treasurer
ADVISORS
Donald Robertshaw
Simbo Conteh
