Empowering our narratives: Storytelling from students of the Black Student Leadership Course

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was truly an educationally rich and inspirational evening on Saturday, April 5^th, 2025, at the Nia Centre for the Arts. The program featured ten students from the Black Student Leadership Course (BSLC) who showcased various themes such as: migration, identity, voice, growth, memory, family dynamics, love, memory and reflection through the creative power of storytelling. The BSLC was offered by the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement based at the Toronto District School Board.

One of the primary purposes of BSLC is the incorporation of African oral storytelling traditions, which empowers students to co-create their narratives through personal monologues reflecting their identities and aspirations. The students examined the richness and multi-faceted dimensions of the Black Canadian experience within a socio-politico-historical context. This enables them to acquire critical skills to become change agents and active advocates for: justice, equity and empowerment.

“This course focuses on the essential elements of dramatic writing, which encourages students to explore and express facets of their African, Black and Caribbean identities.”

The students were guided by Trey Anthony, award-winning: actor, playwright, producer and author. She is well known for the play,“Da Kink in My Hair,” and author of “How Black Mothers Say I Love You.” There were some compelling words from Anthony in the program. She states, “I am beyond thrilled to work alongside these remarkable individuals, guiding them to discover their unique voices and embrace vulnerability in their art. Together, we explore the powerful truth that art is activism, and in this process, I have found deep fulfillment in my own purpose.”

“My experiences on professional stages and working in commercial theatre and television have enriched my perspective, but nothing compares to the joy of nurturing these emerging artists. I hope our audience will be moved, challenged, and inspired to support these new voices that are no longer silenced but boldly heard. Thank you for being part of this transformative experience.”

The names of the students who performed were:

• Adura Adeyemi
• Javian Bailey
• Mya Brown
• Ano Dhilwayo
• Nayela Nelson
• Elijah Nelson
• Kaimilla Nelson
• Lavida Nipoula Batchagna
• Diamond Okoro Obaraye

These students from African, Black and Caribbean cultures showcased their diverse creative talents and innovative gifts through their exploration of essential elements of dramatic writing. There was: authenticity, ingenuity, creativity and transparency on display as they utilized the power of storytelling through plays and monologues to inspire. Their creative expressions were grounded in African oral traditions as they provided a forum where Black voices were seen, heard, and celebrated.

Tanitia Munroe, researcher at the TDSB wrote powerful words and strong recollections on her FB page on April 5th, 2025. She states, “Reflecting on the transformative power of creative expression, our BSLC has been an incredible journey for Black high school students. By blending dramatic writing with rich heritage of African oral traditions, these young storytellers have crafted their first plays showcasing their unique cultural narratives.”

Munroe expresses gratitude and deep appreciation for the pivotal role. She writes, “A huge thank you to Trey Anthony (@blackgirlinlove) for her inspiring mentorship, our dedicated Centre of Excellence for Black Students Achievement Team, and the educators who guide these brilliant minds. Their passion highlights the importance of courses like this in nurturing creativity, confidence and leadership.”

Munroe elaborates on the roles that Anthony played. She states, “Under the guidance of Trey Anthony, empowers Black high school students to craft their first play. This course focuses on the essential elements of dramatic writing, which encourages students to explore and express facets of their African, Black and Caribbean identities.” Munroe mentions specifically the power of the students’ voices and agency in the creative writing process. She notes, “As co-creators of their narratives, the students have developed compelling monologues that not only highlight their individual journey, but also celebrate their collective histories and intersecting identities.”