The second annual Black Excellence Awards (BEA) and Gala in 2025 will be a larger celebration with several events being held throughout the month of February.
The festivities throughout Black History Month will conclude with the Gala on March 1.
The organizing committee said last year’s inaugural gala was an "overwhelming success" and the 2025 celebration will encompass an entire month of events dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the Chatham-Kent community.
Curator of the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum and BEA Co-chair Michelle Robbins said the Black Excellence Awards and Gala are a "heartfelt tribute" to the outstanding contributions of the local Black community, a celebration of culture, and a moment to honour those who "advocate tirelessly" for equity and inclusion.
“The Black Excellence Awards and Gala serve as an important platform to celebrate the past and future of Black culture in our community,” said Robbins. “This event is a testament to our resilience and a chance to honour those who are building a brighter future.”
BEA Co-chair Doug Robbins said all youth are welcome to the Expo because it's important to nurture and guide them.
"The youth is our tomorrow. It's very cliché, but it's true. We want them to be proud of who they are. And when I say Black Youth Expo, we're nurturing all youth," said Robbins.
Robbins noted the Black Excellence Awards and Gala is more than just a party, it's an important event to help remember where the Black community came from and its contribution to the greater community of Chatham-Kent.
"At one time Chatham-Kent had the largest Black population in Canada. That has changed a fair amount. And we want to celebrate our community and our greater community at the same time," he said.
Nominations for the different awards categories begin December 8 and end January 18.
The categories are:
Youth of the Year (15-17 and 18-24)
Male and Female of the Year
Citizen of the Year
Agriculturist of the Year
Entrepreneur of the Year
The Trailblazer of the Year will be selected by a committee.
Event highlights include the following:
All Youth Expo on February 1 at the WISH Centre in partnership with Black student leaders to inspire young minds regardless of race, and emphasize education, leadership, and empowerment. Two outstanding Black Excellence Youth Award recipients will be announced.
Stand By Me: A Century of Black Music and Its Influence on February 15 at St. Andrews Church. It features a soulful, candlelit concert exploring a century of Black music. The performance will highlight the influence of Black artists on the world of music.
Soul Food Dinner and Dance on February 22 at the WISH Centre. The event is an evening filled with soulful music and traditional cuisine. The dinner and dance promises an unforgettable experience of unity, culture, and community.
VIP Reception on February 28 at Retro Suites. The evening will begin with an exclusive VIP reception for sponsors and dignitaries.
Black Excellence Awards and Gala on March 1 at Retro Suites. The formal event will honour remarkable achievements and contributions within the Black community.
Tickets for the Gala are $100 each. Robbins noted last year's event was sold out.