On April 5, 2025, the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement—together with award鈥憌inning actor, playwright, producer, and author Trey Anthony—welcomed over 100 guests to the Nia Centre for the Arts for Empowering Our Narratives: Our Stories, Our Perspective. This unique celebration of African, Black, and Caribbean identity showcased the remarkable talents of students from the Black Student Leadership Course (BSLC) through the performance of original monologues rooted in the rich tradition of African oral storytelling.
A Night of Storytelling and Community
The evening began with a warm reception, giving families, community members, and TDSB staff a chance to connect over refreshments before the performances. One by one, BSLC students took the stage to deliver monologues drawn from personal experience and cultural memory—each piece a testament to their resilience, creativity, and sense of belonging. From reflections on family heritage to explorations of identity and hope for the future, these narratives offered both intimate glimpses and universal truths.
Black Student Leadership Course participant Javion B. recites a monologue during rehearsals.
Crafting their First Play
This year, as part of the Black Student Leadership Course, students honed their writing skills and throughout the term students learned to develop character, build tension, and harness the power of voice—skills they put into practice as they crafted these monologues. “Watching our students bring their stories to life tonight was incredibly moving,” said Director of Education Clayton La鈥疶ouche in his opening address, infusing the room with encouragement and affirmation.
In Conversation with Trey Anthony
Following the performances, award鈥憌inning artist Trey Anthony joined students onstage for a lively Q&A session. Drawing on her own journey in theatre and literature, Anthony offered insights into the creative process and the importance of storytelling as a tool for empowerment. Her engaging presence and expert hosting set the perfect tone for the evening, inspiring students to continue using their voices both on and off the stage.
Students from the Black Student Leadership Course alongside Trey Anthony, System Superintendent of Equity, Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Karen Murray, Graduation Coach for Black Students Kai Gordon, and Senior Researcher Taniti茫 Munroe smile and strike a pose for the camera.
Looking Ahead
This event beautifully illustrated how the BSLC empowers Black high school students to tell their own stories—laying the groundwork for their first collaborative play later this year. We extend our deepest gratitude to Trey Anthony, Director Clayton La鈥疶ouche, former Director Colleen Russell鈥慠awlins, our dedicated staff, and the entire community for making Empowering Our Narratives an unforgettable celebration of identity, creativity, and collective history.
Students rehearsing on Friday April 4, 2025, at the Nia Centre for the Arts, supported by members of the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement and the Equity, Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Department.