Toronto-based artist, Ekow Nimako uses LEGO as a medium to reimagine ancient African kingdoms, focusing on the mysterious 14th-century sea voyage of Abu Bakr II. Through a blend of architecture and imaginative storytelling, Nimako celebrates the resilience of Black civilizations and envisions liberated futures. Based in Toronto, Nimako’s work invites viewers on a journey through time and space, challenging conventional narratives with his Afrofuturistic perspective. The exhibit is showing at Glenbow at The Edison (2nd floor, 150 9 Ave SW) until May 19. Reserve your free tickets here.
Funding Focus
Alberta Blue Cross – Built Together
The program supports accessibility to active living spaces in communities. There are five grants available worth $50,000 each to support new projects for outdoor gyms, cycling paths, construction or replacement of playgrounds, skate parks, and outdoor rinks. The application form will be available on May 14.
Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP)
The Government of Alberta provides capital grants for community facility upgrades, expansions, purchases or construction. Eligible organizations can submit applications via two distinct streams: CFEP Small and CFEP Large, with different guidelines and deadlines. The next deadline for CFEP Small, which funds projects up to a maximum of $125,000 is on May 15; while CFEP Large which provides funding from $125,000 – $1,000,000 will accept Expressions of Interest (EOI) until June 15. Considering applying for CFEP Large, register for the information session on May 29th.
Community Initiatives Program (CIP)
The Government of Alberta provides project-based grants of up to $75,000 to support projects that enhance and enrich communities throughout Alberta such as new programs, enhancement to an existing program, community events, gender equity projects, technology, and portable equipment. The next application deadline is on May 15.
Community Engagement
YW Calgary is running a Side Hustle Series to help you learn all you need to know to start or sustain your side hustle. The series runs online from May 7 to early June and is free to join. They are also offering a free, in-person, half-day Domestic Violence Safety Planning Workshop on May 14. Participants will learn to: recognize different forms of domestic violence, have a supportive conversation with those impacted by domestic violence, learn about different community resources, and build a basic safety plan. Learn more and register while spots are still available.
During mental health awareness week, LIFF is hosting a vital event to raise awareness about mental health support for new immigrant Black women and girls. The event is scheduled for May 10, 5-9pm at Riviera Plaza and Conference Centre Calgary Airport (3515 26 Street NE Calgary).
For mental health support, contact HerConnect staff at 587-893-9355 or you may be able to book a time with one of our therapists.
Black Kids Code for Girls inspires Black girls through STEM education to be part of the digital revolution. They are hosting a 2-day virtual workshop on May 11 and 25 for girls aged 8-17 years to learn how to build apps using Python. No prior knowledge or experience is required for participation in level 1.
Prepare for a week of top artistry and expression at the Calgary Black Film Festival running from May 24 -28, in-person and online. The 4th edition of the festival showcases 35 films – amplifying even more Black voices and welcoming everyone looking to discover the world through films while being inspired and entertained in an impactful way. Festival details and ticket information are available on the official website.
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Ujima News is an inhouse newsletter designed with our members in mind. Our aim is to make knowledge translation and knowledge sharing a core activity of the collective through free media communication.
