Godwin Ifedi
Editor
Photo by Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo

Good morning all

Happy new month! Hope you are doing your best to stay safe and well during this unseasonal heat wave. We have an exciting offering for our readers this month, starting with the African Canadian Association of Ottawa‘s (ACAO) Multiculturalism Day event, our Top Story for this month. Kudos to President John Adeyefa and Executive Director Hector Addison for all their great work uplifting African Canadians in Ottawa, with inspirational programs and services for all age groups. We also bring you a report on the 25th anniversary celebrations by Jaku Konbit, one of our revered community organizations serving our diverse demographic groups, with services and programs for children, youth, adults and seniors. Thank you President Ken Campbell and his team for a job well done.

August is the month for our annual tributes to our graduates. For 2025, we honour new high school graduates: Tehilla Ezedebego and Shyla Harper, as well as graduates from the University of Ottawa. Congratulations to one and all; our community expects to hear more about you for years to come, as trailblazers and more.

The people of Ottawa bade a glorious farewell to iconic community leader and advocate, Bishop Jacob Afolabi and his wife Pastor Elizabeth Afolabi, with a befitting tribute dinner. Knowing this inspirational power couple, retirement doesn’t mean leaving the scene altogether; they will continue to touch our lives in one way or another.

On a sad note, we celebrate the life of Chidozie Gracious Jacob, who passed away a few weeks ago. Our condolences to his family and may his soul rest in peace.

All these and more in the August 2025 edition of your favourite news magazine.

Here is the result of the July 2025 poll: Are you concerned about increasing reports of violent crimes in Ottawa and the national capital region? Yes 100% No 0% Thank you to all who voted. Do remember to vote in the August 2025 poll: Do you support Canada’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state?

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy, peaceful and enjoyable month of August 2025.

Godwin Ifedi Editor, Black Ottawa Scene [email protected] www.blackottawascene.com.

Showcasing and celebrating African Canadians in the national capital and beyond.

This edition of Black Ottawa Scene is funded in part by a grant to Black History Ottawa by the Ottawa Community Foundation