We started 2023 with a surprise in-person Community Builder Award presentation with the help of Black History Ottawa!
On Saturday, January 28, 200 people filled the auditorium at the National Gallery of Canada to kick off and celebrate Black History Month in Ottawa. Under the theme “A Legacy Worth Preserving: Celebrating & Creating,” attendees enjoyed vibrant performances, listened to powerful speeches, and learned about inspiring community leaders who are making a difference.
Black History Ottawa host Sarah Onyango—who happens to be a 2008 Community Builder Award recipient and a part of our recognition team—helped us surprise two unsuspecting attendees.
These two incredible recipients go the extra mile to give back, use their voices, and take action to ensure the most vulnerable people in their communities get the help they need. Their consistent examples of hard work and compassion inspire others to do good and build stronger, healthier, safer communities for everyone.
United Way East Ontario understands the importance of shining a light on the remarkable work being done by members of racialized and marginalized communities in our region. We’re excited to continue celebrating the legacies left and created by African, Caribbean, and Black people in our communities.
We all have a role to play in combating systemic racism, and we will continue to celebrate their past, present, and future achievements this Black History Month.
We thank everyone who takes the time to nominate everyday heroes, and we thank you, community builders, for your exceptional contributions.
Watch a recording of the presentation of these Community Builder Awards here.
Jamila Ahmed
Jamila Ahmed. Photo provided.
Jamila looks at the world with an Afrocentric, anti-Black racism and anti-oppression lens. She incorporates equity into all aspects of her life, whether through her work with The Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa or volunteering in her community and kid’s school council. As a former refugee, she learned at a young age how powerful advocating could be, whether it was for herself or others.
Jamila moved to Canada in 2008 as a single mother ready to make a difference for African, Caribbean, and Black Canadian youth. While balancing the workload of being a mom and attending adult high school, since her Nigerian credentials weren’t recognized here, she never lost sight of her passion for equity and advocacy.
After obtaining her Ontario high school diploma, continuing to post-secondary education, and completing her Master’s degree in social work, Jamila continued to focus on supporting refugee youth facing similar struggles to her own. She’s always willing to offer education, opportunities, and tools to community members in need.
Among numerous volunteer positions, Jamila spent time at the English Conversation Circle at the Catholic Centre for Immigrants—an organization that provides a safe space for newcomers to practice and improve their English language skills. She was there to support education through activities and lend a helping hand whenever and wherever to make a difference in her community.
Jamila is a true role model and continues to be a loud voice for ACB youth in our region by promoting cultural identity through community engagement, fostering empowerment, and helping youth strive toward their goals. Jamila’s ongoing advocacy is not only ensuring youth and families get the support they need, but that their lives are being changed for the better.
Reuel Kofi Omari Dartey
Reuel Kofi Omari Dartey. Photo provided.
Reuel is described as a remarkable young man who works passionately, collaboratively, and tirelessly to make his community a better place. He founded Campus Rush—a youth ministry—in October 2014, where he’s the lead pastor. The ministry has grown to a movement of more than 900 students, with branches at Carleton University, the University of Ottawa, Concordia University, and La Cité Collègiale.
Reuel has spent the last eight years becoming a pillar of his community by radiating local love. Not to mention he’s a trained social worker who’s always ready and willing to support youth so they can reach their full potential.
Through Campus Rush, Reuel has overseen and led various programs that provide his community with education and support. He created a “Link Team” within Campus Rush that offers members opportunities like interview preparation and resume-building sessions. The program also connects members with professional mentors who can guide them through job searches or schooling. Reuel also offers workshops on immigration by bringing in experts to teach international students about becoming Canadian permanent residents after their studies.
Reuel provides youth in his community with a safe space, whether they’re international students, racialized individuals, or just youth in Ottawa looking for a home away from home. Having a safe space and weekly gatherings at Campus Rush has not only helped youth with their mental health, but it’s kept them from following negative influences outside their homes.
Whether he’s feeding people facing homelessness in downtown Ottawa or participating in relief efforts for Ukraine or the tornadoes, Reuel is there and ready to lend a hand whenever help is needed. As an educator, mentor, and friend, Reuel continues to uplift his community.
Do you know a volunteer who has gone above and beyond to support their community? Our Community Builder Awards program accepts nominations year-round! Nominate a Community Builder today!
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