The Hoima Post – Trustable News 24 -7
Toronto, ON – Toronto’s Trinity Bellwoods Park will come alive on Saturday, August 30, 2025, as Hope for Refugees International hosts the inaugural All-Africa Newcomer Community Summer BBQ – Ubuntu Summer BBQ 2025. Running from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the event is themed “Celebrating Black Refugee Resilience, Culture, and Community” and is expected to draw more than 300 African and Caribbean refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers from across Ontario.
Marking a major milestone as the organization nears its second anniversary, the Ubuntu Summer BBQ 2025 is designed to honor the contributions of Black refugees and newcomers in Canada while embracing African heritage, cultural pride, and unity.
“This is more than just a BBQ. It’s a cultural homecoming and a celebration of unity across the African and Caribbean diaspora,” said Patrick Mwesigye, Founder and Program Manager of Hope for Refugees International. “We’re building spaces where joy is resistance and community is healing.”
A Day of Culture, Music, and Connection
The all-day celebration promises a vibrant mix of live African and Caribbean DJ sets, cultural performances, and delicious traditional BBQ (Nyama Choma). Attendees can expect games and activities such as volleyball, pool, rope pulling, chess, ludo, and scrabble, as well as dance competitions with prizes.
Local small and medium-sized businesses will showcase their products in a vendor marketplace, while community members can connect through networking and volunteer opportunities.
Pan-African Representation
This historic event is being organized in collaboration with over 20 African and Caribbean diaspora communities, including Kenyan, Ugandan, Nigerian, Ghanaian, Tanzanian, Malawian, Zambian, Zimbabwean, Somali, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Rwandan, Burundian, Cameroonian, and Congolese (DRC) groups. Partner organizations such as the Tanzania Women’s Association, Southern Africa Settlement Support Centre, and Toronto People With AIDS Foundation (PWA) are also lending their support.
For Maureen Gichanga, a newcomer from the Kenyan community, the BBQ represents more than just an afternoon gathering:
“The BBQ is a celebration of connection and culture. I’m excited to share stories and build something meaningful together.”
How to Get Involved
Vendor spaces are available for $200, and the organizers are inviting volunteers to join in making the day a success. Donations to support the event can be made via e-transfer to info@hopeforrefugees.org.
About Hope for Refugees International
Founded in Toronto, Hope for Refugees International is a grassroots, Black African and LGBTQI+-led organization providing settlement support, advocacy, and community building for refugees and newcomers, with a special focus on Black and LGBTQI+ asylum seekers.
The organizers are extending a warm invitation to the public, encouraging everyone to come for the vibes, stay for the community, and leave with unforgettable memories.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Trinity Bellwoods Park, 790 Queen Street West, Toronto
For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, contact info@hopeforrefugees.org or visit www.hopeforrefugees.org.
