Black Brilliance in BC

Shine bright! A Black History Month event to learn, connect and celebrate in Surrey, BC

To honour Black History Month and celebrate Black excellence, we launched the Black Brilliance in BC event in February 2023. This free event features inspirational speakers, food, music and dance, bringing more than 300 guests from Surrey and Metro Vancouver to celebrate Black talent, cultures and achievements in Canada, while creating space for connection and learning.

Thank you to everyone who attended our 2026 event at Surrey City Hall! The event was packed with learning, joy and celebration. Here were some highlights:

Highlights of Black Brilliance in BC

Master of Ceremonies

To guide our event, we welcome Elliott Slinn, former Poet Laureate of New Westminster as our master of ceremonies. A writer and communications professional, Elliott’s work is rooted in storytelling, community connection and amplifying voices that shape our collective future. He is passionate about people and celebrating the accomplishments and stories of Black brilliance, leadership and impact across British Columbia.

DIVERSEtalks panel: “From Black History to the Future of Black Brilliance” featuring local Black leaders

	Panel moderator: Dr. Yabome Gilpin-Jackson, a certified executive coach, founder of Supporting Learning & Development Consulting Inc., and Vice-President, People, Equity & Inclusion at SFU.
	Vancouver Whitecaps icon Carl Valentine is a former professional soccer player and coach who has played for several clubs in North America and England, including the Vancouver Whitecaps, Vancouver 86ers and Old Athletic, and has also represented the Canadian National team at the international level. Carl is now the Club Ambassador for Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
	Mr. George Anderson, MLA, Nanaimo-Lantzville is the Parliamentary Secretary for Transit. He also serves as Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole. Before being elected to the Legislative Assembly, George worked as an established commercial lawyer at one of Canada’s largest firms. In addition, he served as a City Councillor in Nanaimo and as a Director for the Regional District of Nanaimo.

	Meheret Bisrat, Director, Settlement & Community Development, DIVERSEcity is a dedicated advocate for equitable communities, boasting more than 13 years of unwavering commitment to serving at DIVERSEcity.
	Kenneth Headley is a Caribbean/Black school administrator, and Delta School District principal. He is an educator and advocate for marginalized students, their families and their communities. Since 2016, he has played an integral role in the success of annual Anti-Racism Youth Symposiums and Black History Month Student Conferences.

Music and entertainment

Music by Afro reggae band Mivule
Dance by Soca Xperience Collective
Drums by Sunshine Rhythms Steel Band
Dance by Elegancia Cubana

Plus:

Exhibition tables and information booths
Traditional cuisine
Black Brilliance Awards ceremony (nominations are now closed)
Prizes and giveaways from BC Lions and Whitecaps!
And more!

Getting to the event by transit: Take the Skytrain to Surrey Central or King George Skytrain station, and walk 3 minutes to Surrey City Hall.

Want to be a part of our event as a sponsor or exhibitor?

We are welcoming sponsors and exhibitors for this event in 2027. Learn more in our downloadable sponsorship package here (coming soon).

Email marketing@dcrs.ca or fill out the exhibition form below to connect.

In addition to sponsorship opportunities, we have exhibition options for corporate exhibitors as well as small business and grassroots organizations. Low-barrier (no fee) exhibition opportunities are available on a limited basis. Fill out the form here and we will get back to you with more details and a confirmation.