Editor
Good morning folks
Finally! Spring has sprung and we can now look forward to a glorious summer. At least the official line is that spring starts on 21 March, but the cold snap appears to be digging in, reluctant to let go. Mind you, it is only a matter of time before we begin to complain about the heat and humidity. But that is the nature of the Ottawa that we’ve become used to!
For the month of April, we do have many goodies for you. Our Top Story is the celebration of the life of one of the icons of Ottawa’s Nigerian community, Elizabeth Adibe who passed away on 2 March after a long illness. Her family and friends will certainly miss this gentle woman, loved by all whose lives have been touched by her. Black Ottawa Scene continues to bring you more scenes from the 2015 Black History Month: Miguel D’Armas in concert at the Centrepointe Theatre, Reconciliation Day organised by our own indefatigable June Girvan and Children’s Stories in Diaspora round out the BHM celebrations. The month of March brings you news of Ghana’s independence Day celebrations in March plus Our Health Matters conference focussing on diabetes prevention, as well as the seniors’ seminar on financial planning and fraud prevention, organised by Black History Ottawa. The Jamaican community continues their vibrant outreach programs with the Self Help fund -raiser, and a reception for their High Commissioner Janice Miller.
Two new features are published in this edition. First is the book review: Behind the Darkest Hours – Where Hope Lies, a poignant tale about the abduction and murder of teenager Jennifer Teague in 2005, reviewed by Bertilla Christian. Based on your feedback, we’ve now added Diaspora News, with news from our various home countries. Our first edition showcases Chelsea soccer star and philanthropist Didier Drogba, who is financing the construction of five hospitals in his native Ivory Coast, a rarity if ever there was one.
Our interview features RBC Royal Bank Vice President Nneka Bowen, who is blazing the trail for African-Canadians in the financial corporate world. Fotorama showcases the talented Komi Olaf who continues to make waves with his innovative artwork. There is so much more in the April edition, so read all about it and send us your feedback on how to make our publication more interesting.
Finally, don’t forget to take part in our poll survey. Your responses help make our day. Enjoy!
Godwin Ifedi
Editor
Black Ottawa Scene