Two years ago, under the banner of “Leading the Way to Success Together” the Black Student Leaders Association was established. The success of the association at the University of Ottawa is astonishing. The campus club that began with a small group of students, and primarily the initiative of the Co-Presidents, Janiba S. and Kirstin A., has grown above all expectations. The vision of the club, according to the Presidents, was to create a club that could be a safe space for all persons of African descent to come together, discuss issues, and help to educate each other and the community at large.
Kirstin A., Co-President, stated “BSLA to me means community, togetherness and a positive environment. I think we’ve done a very good job at creating a positive image of ourselves as a club but also as a demographic group on campus. When I came to uOttawa , I was looking for a cultural group for black students specifically because that’s how I identify myself. I felt that it would be a comfortable space for me, but when I didn’t find it, I, along with my co-president, felt that it was important enough for us to create our own group. For me, it’s not about being the leader and being able to make the rules, but it’s seeing other students like myself interact with each other and enjoy the family we’ve built.” Co-President Janiba eloquently adds, “The BSLA to me represents family. We are a part of the African diaspora and we share the same experiences. We give people the platform to share their feelings and opinions. The BSLA to me is a group of people that appreciate the strength and beauty of black culture while also contributing to the mix of cultures that Canada is made up of.”
Looking around at the University of Ottawa campus during my first year of school, I did not see a club or association that catered to people of African descent. Unlike Carleton University who is well known for their multitude of organizations serving the black student population, uOttawa lacked in this sector. The reason for the success of the Black Student Leaders Association is its uniqueness: it caters to people from all nations, religions and creed; the uniting factor is a shared history. Thus, at a weekly meeting you will find students representing nations from around the world, who come together under one roof, socializing, getting to know one another, and this is completely breathtaking thing to see. Everyone is always laughing, joking around, and comfortable to express his or her opinions and work together. While the meetings are a place of socializing, with the overall aura of a giant family reunion, the association is largely focused on a philanthropic agenda, such AIDS awareness campaigns, volunteering, the annual thanksgiving dinner and many other initiatives. Moreover, another major pillar of the association is educating the University community, through the Black History Month showcase, Soulful Expressions, for example. Soulful Expressions occurs in February, it is completely free, and is organized to honor Black History through spoken word, poetry, drama and dance. The night showcases exquisite student talent, and is a must-see. Other luxuries of club members include weekly discussions on current affairs and popular culture, group volunteering and club dinners.
The most beautiful part is that at the core of the club are female students at the University of Ottawa. Thus, this portrays the club as an environment where gender stereotypes are broken down, as the Presidents, Secretary, External Affairs, Event Coordinator and Philanthropic Chair all happen to be women. Moreover, the association showcases educated black men and women, who are constructively giving back to the university community. These are the true successes of the club.
As both Presidents and a large number of executive members are rearing their final year at the University of Ottawa, it will be up to the future generations to carry on the vision of the campus club. The vision of the Black Student Leaders Association, according to Co-President Kirstin A. is to “remain a safe and healthy space for community building and expression. I’d love for it to continue to bring students together. I also think its important for us to continue to celebrate each other’s successes and be a support system in times of need. I also hope that our future leaders will carry on with the mission we’ve begun and expand the networks that the BSLA is connected to.”
The small group of dedicated individuals to which the success of the club is owed to should feel like they accomplished something very great for the University, and bigger than they can imagine. Looking forward, the club will only grow, and continue to gain a strong following, and will continue to positively sculpt the University of Ottawa environment. The vision to serve, to assist and enhance the academic, social and philanthropic aspects of student life at the University of Ottawa will continue for many years to come.
For more information please email the club at bsla.uottawa@gmail.com or follow them on Twitter @BSLAOttawa