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FOOD FOR ALL! 5n2 Soup Kitchens Providing Food for Neighbours in Need

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BY ALYSSA MAHADEO

Every year the holiday season sparks something in us all urging us to give back and even the smallest contributions have the furthest reach.

In 2014,12.6% of households (1 in 8) in the GTA experienced food insecurity according to a report from food policy researchers led by the University of Toronto. In a city abundant with restaurants, it is a startling reality to know that so many of our neighbours cannot afford a healthy and wholesome meal.

Seema David and her children immigrated to Canada from the Middle East in 2007. Her husband joined them in 2008, but their first couple of years were tough getting accustomed to living in a new country, settling the kids at school and searching for a job to provide income for her family. Back in Dubai she had been a school teacher, but after coming to Canada, she had difficulties acquiring the paperwork to get her accreditations here. She obtained a position as a front desk clerk through an agency at the Faculty of Medicine in the University of Toronto offering a bit more than minimum wage and although she worried it wasn’t enough her husband encouraged her to use the position as a method of gaining valuable experience.

She wasn’t there long as an acquaintance at George Brown College got her an interview for the position of Assistant to the Dean. With only background experience as a teacher she worried that she wouldn’t be cut out for the job to complete the admin work required, but after a few interviews she got the position, and the woman she worked for was very accommodating and willing to show her what needed to be done.

Still new to the city in order to get to work Seema used to take the transit system through Toronto. While walking through the city she would see the homeless people on the streets, and working at the college she would hear a lot of talk about charity work. They were very involved in organizing fundraising events for United Way, and this is what first sparked the idea to open up a soup kitchen. Coming from the Middle East she wasn’t familiar with the sight of people living on the streets; in Dubai, you were required to have a visa in order to live there, and so having a job was mandatory.

“I had heard of the term ‘soup kitchen’ but I had never been to one, or had any idea of how it should be run.” Seema recalls. “Based on what I saw, I felt in my heart that I needed to start one especially in my own neighbourhood in Scarborough.”

Seema proposed the idea for a soup kitchen to a few people to see how her idea might be received, and it was met with mixed reactions. People questioned her motives, asking why she wanted to start a soup kitchen as it wasn’t something that she was obligated to do based on her professional background.

She remembered when her family had first come into the country as immigrants, they had brought with them enough savings to invest in a house and get themselves started. For three years after settling here her husband still didn’t have a job, and she was under the pressure of using her low-income admin position as the primary income of the household. Seeing more and more immigrants coming to settle in her neighbourhood, she saw that many of them were struggling even more than she had trying to make a living for themselves in this new country.

Prior to opening the soup kitchen, Seema was advised that this type of operation would cost a lot of money. Of course, they didn’t have the funds to invest in this project, but she promised herself that as soon as God provided the money she would open up a soup kitchen. After a few years had past the idea came to her mind once again. Her family was against the idea, especially since her husband was out of a job again, and she had gone back to the college just to try and keep them afloat. While at the college she focused her attention on doing background and research on how she could get the ball rolling on her soup kitchen, registering a business name, and even opening up a bank account to convince her family that she was serious.

In an effort to open her soup kitchen, Seema approached a local church to ask if they could use their kitchen on the weekends to host people and provide meals for them. Although they turned her down, Seema was resilient, and soon found another kitchen at the East Scarborough Storefront who offered their kitchen for use instead. She acquired another location in addition to the storefront, and went back to the church to show them that the community was responding to her efforts. They offered her the use of their kitchen one day a week and 5n2 Soup Kitchens was put in motion with 150 soups served though these three locations.

Since launching in July of 2013, 5n2 Soup Kitchens has expanded. They now serve from six locations in Scarborough, five days a week! In an urban centre where many are facing challenging situations and are struggling to meet even their basic needs, this initiative has successfully been providing healthy meals for hundreds of marginalized families, children and newcomers each week.

5n2 Soup Kitchens began as a God-given dream in the heart and mind of Seema David. She took her “5 loaves and 2 fish” and took a step on this journey. “Scarborough is my neighbourhood and I want to serve my neighbours,” said Seema. ” When I spoke to people about my vision I began to see that there are many people who have a heart to serve, but simply need a platform to give of their time and resources.”

Thousands need access to at least one healthy meal and 5n2 Soup Kitchens definitely provides an opportunity to do so. Their mission is to provide nourishing soups and meals to our neighbours in need, and their long-term vision is to work towards a hunger-free community where a meal is available for all who need it.

5n2 Soup Kitchens is thankful to all their Community Partners that have helped give this project life including Global Kingdom Ministries, Malvern Presbyterian Church, Salvation Army Immigrant & Refugee Services, Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities, Second Harvest, St. Stephens Presbyterian Church, Warden Woods Community Centre, Centennial College, George Brown College and The University of Toronto. With every wave of immigration more and more people are in need of their services.

Seema has been thankful for all the volunteers and individuals from the community who have contributed their time and efforts to helping run the soup kitchen, through preparation and serving food, as well as cleaning up and donating ingredients for made from scratch fresh and wholesome meals.

“The money that we have invested in this kitchen as a family ran out in December of last year, but because there are so many people that believe in our vision God has provided us the means to keep all our kitchens in operation.”

Looking toward the future Seema is looking to acquire her own kitchen that will allow them their own space where they can keep items in stock, as well as employ full-time and part-time help as well as acquire Charity status since they are currently operating as a Non-Profit Organization. This holiday season, as well as the year ahead Seema is hoping that more people will send financial donations their way to help them in their mission to provide food for all. To donate and give back visit their website at http://www.5n2foods.com/.

The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.

[Proverbs 22:9]

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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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