Empowering the Black Community in Orillia and Area
Join us to celebrate our culture, learn and grow together, and make a positive impact in our community.
About Us
OUR VISION
is to be the driving force behind a united and empowered Orillia and Area Black Community. We aspire to create a model community that champions diversity, breaks down barriers, and sets the standard for inclusive excellence
OUR MISION
is to empower individuals within the Orillia and Area Black Community, fostering unity and transformation through education, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives.
TAG LINE
... promoting diversity & inclusivity
our Core values
Inclusivity Collaboration Empowerment Knowledge Accountability Cultural Celebration
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
February has been recognized as Black History Month, a time to honour the past and uplift the future.
This year’s theme,Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and uplifting Future Generations,” reminds us that Black history is Canada history.
From Viola Desmond’s courage, to Alexander’s leadership and not forgetting our own Fayne Bullen’s commitment in helping build a better Orillia as a community activist and politician, Black Canadians have shaped this nation.
Their legacy lives on through the leadership of today and the changemakers of tomorrow.
Let’s celebrate, amplify, uplift- because Black excellence is past, present, and the future.
#BlackHistoryMonth202
#BlackLegacy
#BlackLeadership
#Black360
#BlackExcellence
raising of the pan-African flag
On February 3rd, 2025, Orillia made history by raising the Pan-African flag for the first time in honour of Black History Month! Despite the snow, residents and dignitaries gathered to witness this powerful moment—a bold statement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community. Orillia is leading the way, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this historic movement. This is more than just a flag; it is a symbol of unity, recognition, and progress.
#OrilliaMakesHistory #BlackHistoryMonth #Community Connection
Networking and empowerment
Connect with like-minded individuals, professionals, and leaders in the Black community. Gain access to resources, mentorship opportunities, and empowerment programs that can help you grow personally and professionally.
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
Alasoba Kelsy Braide: A Champion for Change and Community in Orillia
When Alasoba Kelsy Braide arrived in Canada from Nigeria in 2017, she did not just come to study—she came to make a difference. As an international student at Georgian College’s Orillia campus, studying Child and Youth Work, Alasoba quickly embraced leadership roles, sparking conversations and building spaces for Black representation
Breaking Barriers at Georgian College
As vice president of community engagement for the Georgian College Students’ Association, she organized the first-ever Black History Awareness Week on campus, ensuring that the stories, struggles, and achievements of Black Canadians were recognized and celebrated.
Founding the Orillia & Area Black Community Association
In 2021, Alasoba saw a gap in representation and support for Black families in Orillia—so she acted. She founded the Orillia & Area Black Community Association (OABCA), creating a vibrant, supportive space where Black families could connect, share resources, and celebrate their cultural heritage. Her tireless dedication, passion, and leadership quickly made her a driving force in the community.
Award-Winning Leadership and Systemic Change
Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed. In October 2022, Alasoba received the Community Champion Award at the 10th Annual Newcomer Recognition Awards, hosted by the County of Simcoe, for her outstanding contributions to community building and advocacy.
But she did not stop there. Recognizing the need for systemic change, she was one of the three people that spearheaded a recommendation for an advisory committee to amplify diverse voices in city governance. This bold initiative led to the creation of Orillia’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Development Group, now known as Inclusive Orillia, where she continues to serve as a leader.
Making History in Orillia
Alasoba’s leadership reached new heights when she led the first-ever raising of the Pan-African flag in Orillia, a powerful and historic moment marking Black History Month in the city. Despite the cold and snow, residents and dignitaries gathered to witness this groundbreaking event, recognizing Orillia’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
A True Community Builder and Advocate
As the founder and president of the Orillia & Area Black Community Association, Alasoba remains a tireless advocate for inclusivity and opportunity. She is a mentor, leader, and changemaker—constantly working to bridge gaps, create opportunities, and uplift those around her.
More Than a Dreamer—A Doer
An immigrant herself, Alasoba understands the challenges of starting over in a new country. But she has turned those challenges into opportunities for others, using her voice and actions to create meaningful change. She does not just dream of a better world—she’s out there, building it, one connection at a time.
Alasoba’s story is an inspirational testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and community. Her work continues to shape Orillia into a more inclusive, welcoming, and diverse city for all.
#CommunityNavigator #CommunityChampion # CommunityBuilder #CommunityConnector
Upcoming events
Join us for fun, learning, and connection as we honour Black history, culture, and achievements! Whether you are looking for engaging discussions, inspiring stories, or interactive activities, there is something for everyone.
Location: Orillia Public Library
Date: February 22nd, 2025
Time: 10 A.M- 1 P.M
Come explore, learn, and celebrate together!
#BlackHistoryMonth #CelebrateBlackVoices #LearnConnectGrow #CommunityMatters
Upcoming events
Black in Canada is a performance developed through Arts Orillia’s Dance & Design residency program and supported by the Orillia Opera House and the City of Orillia’s Culture Department. AO is proud to have co-op students training in the theatre industry through this technical residency program! Don’t miss the final performance presented with support from the City of Orillia’s Recreation, Youth, and Culture Department and in partnership with Orillia and the Area Black Community Association.
Don’t miss this inspiring performance celebrating Black history and culture!
Date: February 28, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Orillia Opera House
Tickets are available by clicking the link in our bio or at artsorillia.ca.
Our Partners
Community initiatives and support
Get involved in community initiatives and projects that aim to uplift and support the Black community in the Orillia area. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a more inclusive and equitable society.