Youth Can Make a Difference: Black History Month 2026 Celebration at Brookview Middle School
On Thursday, February 19, 2026, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs proudly hosted a special Black History Month Celebration at Brookview Middle School in Toronto. Centered on this year’s theme, “Youth Can Make a Difference,” the event was a powerful reminder that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders today.
Black History Month is a time to honour legacy while inspiring the future. At Brookview, students experienced both through meaningful dialogue, inspiring role models, and powerful stories of leadership and service.
Inspiring Voices, Powerful Stories
Students had the opportunity to hear from an extraordinary panel of leaders and community champions who shared personal stories of perseverance, resilience, and community impact.
Our distinguished speakers and special guests included:
- Dr. Zanana Akande, former Ontario Cabinet Minister and community advocate
- Dr. Denham Jolly, educator and pioneer in Black Canadian publishing
- Councillor Jamaal Myers, Toronto City Councillor
- Jamaal Magloire, former NBA player and community mentor
- Councillor Anthony Perruzza, Toronto City Councillor
- Tom Rakocevic, Member of Provincial Parliament
- Chris Yorke, Carpenters’ Union
- Curtis Celestine, Toronto Police Service
Through an engaging panel discussion and interactive Q&A session, students were encouraged to reflect on their own leadership potential. Speakers emphasized that leadership begins with courage, service, and a commitment to uplifting others.
Their message was clear: your voice matters, your dreams matter, and your actions, no matter your age, can create meaningful change.
Community Partnership in Action
This celebration reflects The Children’s Breakfast Clubs’ ongoing commitment to youth empowerment, education, and community engagement. Beyond providing nutritious meals, we strive to create opportunities for children to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and recognize their potential.
We extend our sincere thanks to Brookview Middle School for collaborating with us to host this meaningful event. We are also deeply grateful to our community partners, Marcel and Narisha from No Frills Bayview Leaside, for their continued support.
When schools, community leaders, elected officials, and local partners come together, we create spaces where young people can see what is possible.
