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The United Achievers 33rd Annual Scholarship & Recognition Awards Night 

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BY: ASHELLY SMITH 

“Have you ever reached the rainbow’s end and did you find your pot of gold? Ever catch a shooting star tell me how high did you soar?”

The scholarship recipients from the United Achievers Club, may not be able to answer the above line verse by Fantasia’s song ‘I Believe’ yet but they will surely be able to do so. On September 16th, 2017, sixteen students received scholarship awards to assist with their post-secondary tuition. They are as follows: Dana-Kaye Matthews, Mikaelia Miller, Candace Newell, Arinze Ochuba, Mary Osei, Maya Simon, Jenae Downes, Ronaldo Duke, Kareem Elliot, Victoria Ezekwemba, Kayla Goodbridge, Taylor Bogle, Rya Buckey, Victoria De Freitas, Zoe Lopez and Danell Wright. 

At 6 pm at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, was the cocktail session. This session was a social and networking hour while drinking a glass of wine and listening to smooth music. All the guests waited in a queue to be seated accordingly. Soon, everyone was seated and were ready for the introduction of the Emcee, Jesse Jones.

‘Your Passion Can Be Your Life’s Work’

Those are the words Jones lives by. He is an innovator, brand builder, speaker, and influencer. He has made it his mission to help others tap into their own passions and actualize their dreams through their careers. Jones began to welcome special guests such as Peel Regional Police Chief, Jennifer Evans and the Mayor of Brampton, Linda Jeffrey.

Chief Jennifer Evans gave a few words to the scholarship recipients:

“I wish you all the best, take your time and have fun. Sometimes you get lost in your studies and forget to have fun.”

I agree. As the popular proverb says, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” 

At last, it was the moment everyone was waiting for – dinner. The Caribbean jerk chicken was the Talk of the Town. It was just the right taste, at a minimum, the spicing included scotch bonnet pepper, and other spices. It wasn’t too spicy which was good because a lot of people would not be able to consume spicy dishes.  The chicken had a hint of sweetness and was decorated with sprinkles of thyme.  The chicken coconut soup was fairly good, a few guests commented that it was a bit too salty but nevertheless it was a tasty meal.  Also, on the menu was Rockfish with a fresh black bean and mango salsa. Guests could have their meals with rice and beans or seasonal vegetable medley. Dessert was also another thing that guests went crazy for, it was all done in a split of a second. Apple pie, black forest cake, fresh fruits & berries were on the dessert menu.

Later, there was a cello performance by one of the recipients, Ronaldo Duke. His performance was sentimental as he performed ‘It Will Rain’ by Bruno Mars. The introduction of the keynote speaker was done by Majorie Taylor, a past president of the United Achievers Club. The speaker was Dr. Everton Gooden, Chief of Otolaryngology/ Head and Neck Surgery at North York General Hospital.  He is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto.  Everton began his career at North York General Hospital in 2001. He recently received the 2017 Harry Jerome Trailblazer Award according to his biography in the scholarship’s program.

In his presentation, he mentioned that he struggled academically. He wasn’t getting the A’s or B’s, he was a below average student. But he didn’t let that hinder him from aspiring for greater achievements.  He says: “As long as you continue to work hard, maintain your determination and commitment anything is truly possible.”

Gooden has followed through with his statement to be where he is at today. He said there were bad days and a lot of obstacles in his way but he continued to persevere until he became successful.

Finally, it was the presentation of the 2017 scholarship recipients by Kathy Mcdonald and Lucinda Sloley. I spoke with one of the recipients, Maya Simmons about how she felt receiving this award:

“After receiving my award, I felt proud. Proud to be a part of a group of young black people that have all the potential to change the world.”

When I asked her what significantly did she do to receive this scholarship she later shared: “For me, I believed that it was my volunteer work that stood out the most. I really like to focus on giving back to my school community to prepare younger kids for big changes in life such as high school. I go back to my elementary school twice a year to talk with the grade eight students about the transition into high school. I also volunteer a lot within the black community through events such as Afro Fest.”

Maya is eighteen years old who is a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High School. She is enrolled in the Media Info and Techno-Culture program at Western University.

Soon, the night was over with a splendid performance by Canadian singer Liberty Silver.

The United Achievers Club of Brampton is a non-profit organization established in 1980. For thirty-three years, the United Achievers’ and its partners have assisted approximately 370 students in their quest for higher education.

I’m proud to say, I was a past recipient in 2014 whose life this organization has touched. It was an amazing night and hopefully next year you will be there!

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Bill C-63 is the conclusive end to Canadians Freedom of Speech

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

One “wrong” post on the internet, and you’re silenced… forever…

I have to admit; I am genuinely frightened by the federal government’s latest bill and its impact on OUR Freedom of Speech and Expression. This grim reality is something straight out of a science fiction movie, or at the very least, an online censorship law directly imported from an authoritarian regime like: China, Iran, or North Korea. “That can’t be happening here,” you say. Oh yes, it is.

Justin Trudeau’s (In) Justice Minister Arif Virani introduced Canada, and the world, to Bill C-63, the “Online Harms Act.” He is calling for a piece of legislation aiming to reduce online “hate” and “hate speech.” The definitions of “hate” and “hateful speech” are so vague that they could include almost anything: critical opinions, political commentary, even memes.

I get it. This might be in reaction to the fact that he has been at the receiving end of what could be called “hate speech.” An Angus Reid poll showed that the three most used words to describe Trudeau were: “arrogant,” “dishonest,” and “corrupt” with the fourth word being “charismatic,” which still doesn’t actually speak to a positive quality of his character.

Is this why there will be an update to section 318 and 319 of the CCC, that will introduce hate, or hateful speech as anything that “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically)?

The implications are far-reaching and frightening since this bill will not just force social media and big tech giants to merely terminate your social media account. It’s a social media jail incarnate, where you will pay the physical price for sharing the “wrong” opinions by going to actual jail.

If the Trudeau Liberal government gets away with it, this will be the new normal in Canada. Let’s take a quick look at the proposed amendments:

  1. Update the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC)’s definition of “hate speech” and “hatred” to include ambiguous terms like “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically section 318 and 319 of the CCC).
  2. Expand the federal bureaucracy by instituting a “Digital Safety Commission” (aka Canada’s very own Ministry of Truth) and a “Digital Safety Ombudsperson” to receive complaints about “hate speech” and enforce speech “standards” on internet platforms (Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, Rumble, etc.).
  3. Grant even more power to the Canadian Human Rights Commission, allowing them to force content removal and impose fines up to $70,000, with a maximum of $20,000 to the offended anonymous complainants. The same commission that labeled Christmas as “racist” last December.
  4. Raise the maximum punishments for “hate propaganda” to life imprisonment.
  5. Enact “protective measures” enabling a judge to act on anonymous reports of hate crimes by requiring accused individuals to wear an electronic monitoring device, undergo house arrest, be banned from public spaces, or have a restraining order against them.

It’s unclear how these claims of “hate crimes” will be verified, opening the floodgates for anonymous complaints from anyone, anywhere in the world.

If this bill passes, we could see media outlets like the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper lose our right to provide balanced, and transparent information, especially when it comes to what is going on in our world, the information that is quietly circulated behind your backs.

The passage of Bill C-63 could bring the Trudeau Liberals’ vision of turning Canada into a so-called “basic dictatorship,” one step closer to becoming an actual-livable reality, but in this dark time, there is still a glimmer of hope.

We’ve seen the massive public backlash against The Liberal government’s failed attempts to pass similar censorship bills over the last several years. This is why I am asking you to act now. If you don’t, you will lose the ability to openly discuss and debate important issues, first online and then in person.

Only with your help can we successfully defend all Canadians from authoritarianism and preserve OUR fundamental human right to Free Speech and Expression!

We want to help you voice your thoughts, and below I am going to show you how you can do this:

  • Find your MP’s official email address on the official parliamentary website, or their personal website.
  • Clearly state your concerns in a well-written and respectful email. Clearly articulate your concerns and provide your contact details for a follow-up. Include your name, address, and contact information for a more personalized response.
  • Engage with your MP on social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook. Publicly share your concerns and ask for their response or action.
  • Gather with members of the community who have similar concerns and schedule an appointment to meet with your MP at their constituency office. Face-to-face meetings can have a more significant impact as you can use the opportunity to voice your concerns in a public forum.

Remember to be respectful and clearly articulate your concerns when reaching out to your MP. We have to move past emotion and take ACTION. Providing factual information and potential solutions will strengthen your case. Additionally, encouraging others in your community to voice their opinions can contribute to a collective effort in influencing change.

REFERENCES:

Federal Politics: Conservatives open seven-point lead over Liberals as past PPC voters migrate to Poilievre

Liberals’ “online hate” bill contains $70K fines for speech and life imprisonment for hate crimes

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/online-harms-hate-crime-sentences-1.7128596

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-justice-minister-defends-house-arrest-power-for-people-feared-to/

https://montrealgazette.com/news/national/virani-says-new-measures-meant-to-help-prevent-hate-crimes-will-come-with-safeguards

https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/feds-target-online-content-that-foments-hatred-in-new-bill-seek-steep-penalties-5595412

https://www.rebelnews.com/liberals_table_promised_online_harms_censorship_legislation

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/trudeaus-online-harms-bill-threatens-freedom-of-expression-constitutional-lawyer-warns

https://www.parl.ca/DocumentViewer/en/44-1/bill/C-63/first-reading

https://em.citizengo.org/OTA3LU9EWS0wNTEAAAGRsmcQVWSchhVlH2Ays8BxQcP1xgK9KWmoK10MvOrCKgkK3zxb9g3G_qM7UDTgAByqcmm6YM8=

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Ring roars and adrenaline soars: United Boxing Promotions unveils another year of exciting fights

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Photo Credit: Jeff Lockhart

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

There was a palpable wave of anticipation sweeping through the air like an electric charge. The low hum of the crowd’s conversations intensified, creating a harmonious symphony of excitement. The atmosphere was charged with the promise of raw athleticism and unbridled competition. Spectators, perched on the edge of their seats, exchange animated glances and murmurs, their collective energy reaching a crescendo with every punch.

The scent of anticipation was thick, intermingling with the lingering echoes of bets being placed, and the occasional cheers that escaped from clusters of enthusiastic fans. The rhythmic thud of boxers’ footsteps reverberated through the venue, adding a primal heartbeat to the growing fervor.

As the announcer’s voice boomed over the speakers, introducing the contenders, the tension became almost tangible, creating an exhilarating prelude to the impending clash of skill and strength in the squared circle. The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, usually synonymous with chance and risk, transformed into a cathedral of adrenaline, where every spectator becomes a fervent believer in the unpredictable dance of combat about to unfold.

Once again, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto for a night of incredible fights. When I arrived, the Featherweight fight between Michael Cabato, and Jorge Diaz was nearing its end. Although not privy to the actual fight, I was informed that Michael Cabato had erased the only blemish on his record – an April 2023 draw – with a confident unanimous decision win over Jorge Diaz in a rare rematch.

Thankfully I was just in time for the Cruiserweight fight between Milad Zareian and Edgar Gonzalez. Milad Zareian stopped the overmatched Edgar Gonzalez and moved to 2-0 in the process. Boxing lovers definitely have to keep an eye on the promising newcomer, as he gradually discovers his rhythm and asserts his presence in the ring. The initial nervous energy that I saw in his first fight had transformed into a composed and calculated demeanor, evident in the fluidity of his movements and the precision of their strikes.

His increased comfort is palpable, as he is learning to seamlessly navigate the space, and exhibiting a heightened awareness of his surroundings. This newfound confidence is not only reflected in his technical proficiency, but also in his ability to adapt and strategize.

I stood up and cheered proudly when fellow Jamaican Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown caught Rafael Abdala Sanchez flush in the first round, ending their heavyweight clash early. As the dominant presence of Big 12 Brown continues to cast a looming shadow over the heavyweight division, fans are wondering if there exists anyone capable of challenging this formidable force. The relentless dominance of Big 12 has raised concerns about the competitive balance within the division, prompting a collective call to thoroughly assess the landscape, and identify potential contenders who can stand up to the challenge. The future of the division hinges on the strategic decisions made by United Boxing Promotions in their quest to find the next worthy adversary.

In an unfortunate turn of events Natasha ‘The Nightmare’ Spence was unable to showcase her skills in her match that was set against Angelica Flores. Drama ensued when Natasha reached out to Melinda Watpool to step in, as a return favour for her stepping in last year when Melinda’s fight was falling through. Melinda said “No,” stating her reasons, and Natasha was not having that. She was given a chance to speak to her fans in the ring, and she called out Melinda for not returning the favour. I can appreciate her frustration, and I enjoy the fact that there has been a little drama brought to the ring.

The Co-Main Event was an exciting match between Billy Allington, and Mark Smither, IBO International Super Lightweight Championship. British battler Billy Allington won a feisty 10-round road decision over Barrie, Ontario crowd favourite Mark Smither. The win should propel Allington back into the mix for another shot at the British title, and he and his team were full marks for the road victory.

Smither could not find the offensive breakthrough against the veteran Allington over the second half of their championship fight, and there was no protest after the scores were announced. His fight goes to show that it is crucial for a fighter to avoid leaving the outcome of a match to the scorecards.

At 12-1 and still the reigning IBO Americas Champion, Smither has a number of intriguing local, national and international options available — to be considered after a few weeks of reflection with his team and promoter.

Then there was the main event, the beloved Sukhdeep Singh against Gino Godoy, IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship. Sukhdeep ‘Chakria’ Singh legitimized his contender status, stopping Argentine Gino Godoy with an emphatic right in the fourth round to win the IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship.

This emerging young champion is undeniably one to keep a watchful eye on. With each passing challenge, his confidence continues to soar, solidifying his status as a rising star. In a recent triumph, he has added yet another impressive feat to his growing collection of accomplishments. As he navigates his way through various arenas, it becomes increasingly evident that his: determination, skill, and unwavering spirit are propelling him toward greatness. The world eagerly anticipates the next chapters of his journey, recognizing the undeniable potential of this remarkable individual who seems destined for even greater heights in the days to come.

I have some other exciting news for you boxing fans; United Boxing Promotions today announced the company has signed two-time Caribbean Amateur Champion Jerone Ennis to a multi-year promotional contract. Ennis, a product of Denham Town, Kingston, will campaign at light heavyweight and news regarding his professional debut in Canada will be announced shortly.

“This is another step in our efforts to build Jamaican boxing, and sign the best Jamaican talent available,” said United Promotions president Tyler Buxton. “Jerone is an elite boxer and joins a stable full of the best talent the country has to offer.”

The 24-year-old Ennis has big goals in the professional ranks and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Jamaican stablemates Kemahl ‘The Hitman’ Russell and Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown. “My goal is to rise through the ranks and hopefully in God’s favour one day become the number-one light heavyweight boxer in the world,” said Ennis, who in addition to his Caribbean titles also won a bronze medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games. “Kemahl Russell and Big 12 Brown have always inspired me to become great, and I am happy to now join the United family where we will all push each other to get better.”

Owwwweeee! The start of the boxing year in Toronto has been an electric one; I can’t wait to see what United Boxing Promotions has in store for us next!

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Leverage every opportunity, build a network, and defy the odds; RBC launches their Black Entrepreneur Program

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Photo Credit: Way Home Studio

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I’m sorry, but we can’t approve your loan application. You lack a substantial credit history.”

“But I have a solid business plan and a clear vision,” you say with despair in your voice. You have worked so hard to put everything together, and once again, you feel shut out from your dreams.

It’s frustrating, I know. You are talented, educated, and motivated, but it feels like the system is working against you.

Starting your own business is a formidable endeavour laden with numerous challenges, especially if you are an African-Caribbean entrepreneur. One of the most formidable hurdles is the arduous task of acquiring the necessary resources, especially the difficulties with securing funding. Traditional sources (financial institutions) are often hesitant to invest in young entrepreneurs, and being African-Caribbean adds another layer of obstacles. This leaves young entrepreneurs grappling with a scarcity of financial backing, making it difficult to fund essential components like product development, marketing, and operational expenses.

Beyond monetary constraints: locating skilled personnel, securing a suitable workspace, and navigating the complex landscape of permits and regulations add additional layers of difficulty. Starting a business is tough for everyone, but as young African-Caribbean entrepreneurs, you must be resilient. This means seeking out community resources, grants, and mentorship programs.

I was impassioned when I received an email from an RBC representative sharing information about the recently launched Black Entrepreneur Program (BEP) committed to helping create opportunity, growth and equity for Black entrepreneurs.

The BEP has provided over $14.5 million in loans to date through the Black Entrepreneur Business Loan (BEBL) and the Black Entrepreneur Startup Program in collaboration with Futurpreneur (BESP). Beyond the loans, the program has facilitated over 8,000 interactions with Black entrepreneurs and clients, providing them with advice, resources and mentorship opportunities through RBC’s partner organizations and local events. Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned veteran they can help with advice, connections and banking solutions you need to get a new business started, or to grow your existing business to the next level.

They have a team that will guide you through all the steps to embark on your business journey—from planning to financing to launch. Their program for Black entrepreneurs aged 18-39 provides startup loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, plus access to resources and networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada.

They have also launched a tailored version of their core Startup Program specifically to help address some of the barriers to success faced by many aspiring Black entrepreneurs. They assist with:

  • Financing from $5,000 to $60,000 in startup loan financing (up to $40,000 of which is delivered by Futurpreneur, funded by RBC; and up to $20,000 loaned by BDC)
  • Up to two years of 1-1 expert mentorship
  • Gaining access to the resources you need to succeed; they provide an interactive Business Plan Writer and Cash Flow Template
  • Engaging with a national network of Black entrepreneurs, leaders and Black-led community organizations at a range of entrepreneurship events
  • The opportunity to apply for up to $40,000 in follow-on financing funded by RBC, based on the first two years of successful business performance.

I went through their programs and found one that I think would be great for young entrepreneurs in our community. “Rock MY BUSINESS; Three-Part Workshop Series Aspiring entrepreneurs: Transform your idea into a thriving business,” creates space for innovative entrepreneurial ideas and finds opportunities to fill gaps in the market with niche products and services.

Are you an entrepreneur looking to transform your idea into a thriving business, or grow your newly launched small business? You can register for the free, virtual, three-part Rock My Business workshop series, presented by Futurpreneur and RBC Future Launch. The series provides entrepreneurs with the tools to: develop your idea, formalize your business plans, and create a viable cashflow—all while connecting you with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada.

The intricate dance of balancing ambition with practicality becomes a constant struggle, requiring a tenacious spirit and resilience to overcome the myriad obstacles that inevitably arise. Despite these hardships, the journey of entrepreneurship is a testament to determination and vision, where the pursuit of one’s passion often fuels the perseverance needed to transform obstacles into steppingstones.

It’s not easy, but you must refuse to be another statistic. Leverage every opportunity, build a network, and defy the odds.

REFERENCES:

https://www.futurpreneur.ca/en/besp-ads?gad_source=1

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