Honouring Black History Month: A Celebration of Community and Legacy

At Vibrant, Black History Month is a time to honour the resilience, contributions, and lived experiences of Black individuals in our community. It offers a meaningful opportunity to celebrate achievements while reflecting on the systemic challenges affecting Black health and well-being. As a community health organisation, we strive to foster inclusive spaces, listen to diverse voices, and support efforts that promote equity and access to care.

Spotlight on Monica: 25 Years of Dedication at Vibrant

This year, we’re proud to spotlight Monica, a cherished member of our team. For 25 years, she has dedicated herself to providing exceptional care as an attendant, joining us through an agency before becoming a vital part of our team. Her journey, from nursing in England to completing her RPN refresher at Seneca College, reflects her lifelong passion for healthcare, inspired by her early experiences in Jamaica.

Like many internationally trained professionals, Monica faced challenges along the way, including credential recognition, the need for refresher courses, and biases in the hiring process. Despite these barriers, she remained determined, proving her expertise through years of dedication and hard work. “So much has changed over the years, but one thing that remains the same is the commitment to the people we serve,” she says. “My advice to others is to keep pushing forward—opportunities come to those who are determined.”

Black History Month is a celebration and a reminder of how far we’ve come and the challenges that lie ahead. It’s about honouring the past, embracing the present, and shaping a future where everyone can thrive.

This year’s Black History Month theme highlights “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.” Also, check out Statement by the Prime Minister on Black History Month. We encourage everyone to explore the events happening around Toronto that offer deeper insights into the importance of this month. Also, over the month we will be highlighting the experiences and stories of several Vibrant staff members and clients to celebrate Black History Month.