Celebrating Black History Month in Waterloo Region

Popular GRT bus wrap returns recognizing ‘Black Excellence: Past, Present and Future”

Waterloo Region – Today, at a Black History Month Launch event organized by the Canadian Caribbean Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR), local artist Vanessa Nkansah-Okoree's popular bus wrap design from last year was re-launched on a Grand River Transit (GRT) bus.

The artwork’s theme of “Black Excellence: Past, Present and Future” recognizes the invaluable roles Black individuals have played in shaping Canada’s identity.

"I want to challenge the narrow, stereotypical portrayals of Black people and instead celebrate the depth of our identities. Ultimately, what I’m trying to convey is that strength comes from unity, but that unity doesn’t mean uniformity. By embracing our differences and recognizing the importance of diverse representation, we can create a more inclusive, empowered community," said Nkansah-Okoree.

The bus wrap came together with the support of local community groups, including:

• Nigerians in the Waterloo Region (NIROW)
• Somali Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (SCAWR)
• Afropolitan
• Women Dignity International (WODI)
• Adventure4Change (A4C)
• Canadian Caribbean Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR)
• African Canadian Association of Waterloo Region and Area (ACAWRA)
• Ghanaian Canadian Association of Waterloo Region
• African Family Revival Organization (AFRO)
• Digimillennials of Afrovibes festivals.

Black History Month provides a significant opportunity to celebrate the diversity, culture, and contributions of Black Canadians while reflecting on systemic racism's ongoing impact. Many different events are organized locally across Waterloo Region and across Canada during the month of February.

The Region's commitment to equity and inclusion supports initiatives for Indigenous, Black, and racialized communities through the Region’s Upstream funding and the Community Capacity Building Fund. Since 2022, approximately $6.2M has been awarded to 49 initiatives supporting African, Black, and Caribbean communities in the Region.

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Backgrounder – Artist Biography

Vanessa Nkansah-Okoree is a digital artist dedicated to celebrating the richness and diversity of the Black community through her work. Her art showcases a wide range of characters, each crafted to highlight the beauty, strength, and individuality within the community.

With a strong commitment to authentic representation, Vanessa’s work challenges stereotypes and uplifts Black voices in the digital art space. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Vanessa is currently in her last year of a master’s degree in health sciences, with her research focused on health equity for the Black community. Her academic work and art intersect in powerful ways, both advocating for visibility, justice, and inclusivity. 

Through her digital creations, Vanessa aims to inspire, educate, and empower, ensuring that Black stories are seen, heard, and celebrated.