Black Excellence is who you are, don’t be afraid to ask for what you are worth; The Black Excellence 365 Brunch

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“Why do the least, when you can do the most!” Dr. Andrew B Campbell

I swear, I don’t know where to start with this man; from the moment I stepped in to the “Iron Sharpens Iron – Episode #1: Black Excellence 365 Brunch,” that was held on Sunday, February 4^th, 2024, at Parkview Manor located at 55 Barber Greene Road, I levitated between laughing hysterically, to deep introspection.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had received a personal invitation from the Dr. Andrew B. Campbell (famously known as Dr. ABC) to be part of the Black Excellence 365 Brunch. As I walked in, I noted that the entrance was adorned with a subtle mix of African-inspired art and contemporary designs. The chatter of excited voices set the scene for this high-end African Caribbean empowerment brunch.

Guests were dressed in a stunning array of stylish outfits that celebrated African Caribbean culture. The ambiance was electric, a perfect blend of sophistication and cultural pride. The main hall was a visual feast, adorned with striking centerpieces, and luxurious decor. Attendees engaged in animated conversations at beautifully set tables.

As I navigated through the crowd, I marveled at the diversity of African Caribbean excellence represented in the room. Guests were taking the time to find their seat, ready to absorb the wisdom and inspiration that permeated the atmosphere. The room was buzzing with anticipation for a transformative experience; a keynote presented by the one and only Dr. Andrew B Campbell.

“My White friends know I am Black!”

Dr. ABC is an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, committed to raising awareness about injustice against racialized groups and advancing anti-discrimination work in teacher education. He has been at O.I.S.E since September 2017 where he teaches: Anti-Discriminatory Education, Educational Research, Law and Professional Ethics in Education, Educational Leadership and Diversity, Teacher and Educational Change, and Special Issues in Curriculum and Pedagogy.

He is the recipient of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE’s) 2022 award for Excellence in Initial Teacher Education, which underscores the impact of his work in this area. He was awarded the 2022 Award for Excellence in Initial Teacher Education Winner, and the African Scholars Award 2021-Distinguished African-Caribbean Award. He is the author of two books: “Teachable Moments with DR.ABC: A Spoonful for the Journey (2015)” and “The Invisible Student in the Jamaican Classroom” (2018).

The idea for the event came about as another way for African Caribbeans to continue to inspire each other. Dr. ABC is a firm believer in the power of community. He is constantly thinking of ways in which we as a community can: show up for each other, hold each other up, and how we cheer for each other. “There is power in the community. The resources we need are within the community, and we need to be more intentional in what we bring to the community and how we pour into the community.”

The room was buzzing with anticipation and the air was filled with excitement and curiosity. DJ Blackcat dropped some tunes, and in walked Dr. ABC impeccably dressed, showcasing his dynamic style. He steps up to the podium with confidence and a warm smile.

In this uproarious and clever speech, Dr. ABC, a brilliantly witty African Caribbean man, took the stage with a contagious energy that immediately captivated the audience. He effortlessly weaved humour and insight into a tapestry of laughter and enlightenment. With an infectious smile and a twinkle in his eye, he started by playfully acknowledging the elephant in the room – his undeniable charm and wit. Drawing on his personal experiences and cultural references, he skillfully navigated through topics with a perfect blend of satire and wisdom.

“Live your life and disappoint the doubters!”

His comedic timing was impeccable, delivering punchlines with a rhythm that left the audience in stitches. He skillfully danced around sensitive subjects, turning potential pitfalls into uproarious moments of shared laughter. His sharp observations on everyday life, infused with a unique perspective, resonated with the diverse audience, creating a communal experience of joy.

Dr. ABC masterfully incorporated elements of his own cultural background, effortlessly blending anecdotes that invited both laughter and reflection. “My journey has been one of challenges, but it’s also been one of triumphs. I stand here not just as an individual but as a representative of the strength that exists within our community. We are not defined by the obstacles in our path, but by how we choose to overcome them. It’s time for us to rewrite the narrative.”

His speech highlighted the fact that as a community: our voices, our stories, and our experiences are powerful. They shape the world and the generations that follow. He made it clear that it was time to embrace our diversity and use it as a source of strength, not division.

“As Black people, we celebrate being resilient. The image of a rose growing out of concrete is popular, but let’s be clear; concrete is not a nourishing environment for a rose.”

In celebration of creating a nourishing environment Dr. ABC honoured the work of people who had not only supported him on his journey, but also gave selflessly to the Toronto Caribbean community. He also introduced two scholarships for African Caribbean students entering college/university in Canada and two for students entering college/university in Jamaica. $10.00 from the sale of every ticket sold went towards the Dr. ABC Educational Scholarship Foundation for students in Jamaica and Canada experiencing financial hardship.

In the end, the speech becomes more than just a showcase of humour – it becomes a celebration of diversity, an exploration of shared humanity, and a reminder that laughter knows no boundaries. The room was left in stitches, hearts warmed, and minds opened, as the audience reflected on the power of humour to connect us all.