The West Island Black Community Association is committed to bridging educational gaps through its innovative programs that shape and inspire the community.
As champions of diversity, the West Island Black Community Association (WIBCA) has been a key pillar of Montreal’s West Island community for 42 years. The volunteer-run charitable organization is dedicated to serving everyone in their community, from youth to seniors, through free educational, cultural, and social programs that teach new skills and inspire the next generation of Black leaders.
Innovative, hands-on programs, such as WIBCA’s Robotics Program, give Black students ages 9 to 19 the chance to pursue projects and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students in the program are taught computer programming and robot building, with the opportunity to showcase their new skills in local competitions.
Each year, the organization awards five WIBCA Scholarship Awards to Montreal-area students who are committed to pursuing a higher education, are involved in their local community, and who have overcome adversity in their lives. Black students, Indigenous students, and other students of colour who have shown a strong commitment to supporting the Black community, are encouraged to apply.
The organization’s commitment to fostering academic success and community involvement is furthered through the Empowered Woman Scholarship Award, sponsored by author Alvina Ryan. Designed to celebrate and support the achievements of a female Black student, the Award underscores the organization’s dedication to empowering female leaders in the community.
Amplifying BIPOC voices
In addition to the Empowered Women Scholarship Award, the organization supports the Black female community through the Black Girls Gather Book Club, a network for young Black women ages 12 to 18. Not only does the club foster mentorship, friendship, and support, but it also provides a safe gathering space for meaningful discussions on books written by Black authors and themes such as discrimination, feminism, and identity. The club also hosts creative writing workshops, art sessions, and visits from special guests.
In addition to the services WIBCA provides for the Black community, the organization offers educational programs for non-Black people, such as the Confronting Racism Discussion Group (CRDG). CRDG is a virtual discussion group that helps non-Black people become better allies to the Black community by confronting their own biases and listening to Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) voices through anti-racism literature, films, and podcasts. The goal of CRDG is to ultimately empower people who are Black, Indigenous, and people of colour and to provide non-Black people with resources to unlearn racist mindsets and behaviours.
Building for the future
Looking ahead, the organization plans to grow its services within the West Island community through its Buy a Brick fundraising initiative. The program aims to raise funds to build a new community hub and headquarters for the organization, with more space to host on-site programs and events. Donors can purchase one brick for $100, in honour of themselves or a loved one, to support the future and legacy of the organization.
Ultimately, the WIBCA plays a pivotal role in bridging educational gaps within the community through its targeted programs that help Black youth, adults, and seniors pursue their dreams, goals, and interests while giving voice to the local BIPOC community.
To learn more about WIBCA, visit wibca.org.
