Afrocentric Symposium

Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation formally invites you to Saskatchewan’s first ever Afrocentric Symposium on February 8th – 9th, 2024. Join us at the TCU Place to learn about Black History Month and participate in conversations that inspire change, building community connections, and create sustainable growth.

This year’s theme “Black Awakening” focuses on creating community growth and sustainable outcomes to help achieve social cohesions and harmonious living. The Symposium will feature various influential speakers and erudite panelists across Black communities in Saskatchewan and beyond.
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Symposium Theme

Black Awakening - Changing Systems and Structures for Community Vitality and Sustainable Growth

Where

TCU Place, 35 22 St E, Saskatoon

When

Thursday February 8 to Friday February 9, 2024

What To Expect

Symposium Day 1

6:00 PM - 6:15 PM: Check-in and Registration
Arrival and collection of Afrocentric Symposium Kit/Materials.

6:15 PM - 6:20 PM: Official Welcome & Proclamation Certificate Presentation
Opening remark from TAYFFI Leadership

6:20 PM - 6:25 PM: Presentation of Proclamation
Official Presentation - City of Saskatoon Black History Month Proclamation

6:25 PM - 6:40 PM: Goodwill Messages
Official Greetings from Government-level Representatives, Distinguished Dignitaries, and Black Community Leaders

6:40 PM - 7:00 PM: Afrocentric Performances


7:05 PM - 9:00 PM: Network Social Event
Social networking, light music, and connections building. Complementary refreshments will be served (cash bar available).

Symposium Day 2

9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Official Opening and Afrocentric Land Acknowledgement

9:15 AM - 10:45 AM: Panel Discussion
Connecting the Dots between Systemic Inequalities and Social Determinants of Health of Black Peoples in Canada

10:45 AM - 11:00 AM: Coffee Break
Enjoy coffee, tea and light refreshments while connecting with other participants.

11:00 AM - 11:50 AM: Keynote Presentation
Black Awakening: Changing Systems and Structures for Community Vitality and Sustainable Growth

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch Break and Black Art Exhibition
Participants enjoy their lunch and also have an opportunity to explore Black Arts Exhibition and visit Black Vendors Marketplace showcasing Black Arts, crafts, clothing, jewelries and more.

1:10 PM - 3:30 PM: Plenary Sessions
i) Black Awakening: Secrets to Building Intergenerational Wealth for Black Families
ii) BIPOC Communities Allyship: Strengthening, Protecting, and Preserving our heritage.

Breakout Session:
Recognition, Justice, and Development (per the theme of the International Decade for People of African Descent).

3:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Coffee Break
A brief break to recharge, network, and enjoy refreshments.

3:45 PM - 4:15 PM: Final Presentation
Engaging presentation summarizing key insights from the plenary speakers and breakout sessions, emphasizing actionable takeaways for community empowerment.

4:15 PM - 4:30 PM: Closing Remarks & Networking
Participants get another opportunity to visit the Marketplace and purchase Afrocentric items and wears in memory of the Symposium.

4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Departure