With support from the City of Kitchener’s RISE Fund, Abeingo Association of Canada successfully delivered two community events in 2024 focused on decreasing inequities, increasing opportunities, and promoting well-being within Black African and other racialized communities.

The first event, a Black History Month Celebration Dinner for Afro-Canadian Women, was held on February 24, 2024, at the Walper Hotel in Kitchener. The dinner brought together 24 women representing Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Sudan, and Canada. It created a space to celebrate African identity, recognize the strength and contributions of Afro-Canadian women, strengthen existing relationships, build new friendships, and identify opportunities for collaboration.

On July 20, 2024, Abeingo hosted its Annual Summer Barbeque at Kiwanis Park, welcoming more than 200 people representing multiple diaspora communities. The event provided an opportunity for community members to socialize, network, reduce stress, and strengthen their sense of well-being. Attendees enjoyed African and East African food, while African and Black individuals and groups also had the opportunity to display and sell their products and connect with other community members.

Together, the two events had a direct impact on the Kitchener community by creating opportunities for networking and socializing, reducing inequities, and supporting the well-being of Black, Indigenous, and other racialized community members.

Most notably, 100% of participants agreed that the events helped them participate more actively in community events with like-minded individuals.

The RISE Fund enabled Abeingo to create meaningful spaces for people to come together, celebrate culture, strengthen relationships, and build a more connected community.