“As of April 2024, the Federal Government has added $36.4 million to a program designed to support people who have been seriously injured or killed by vaccines since the end of 2020....”
The trailblazing entrepreneur KIMESHA WALTERS
Growing up in the quiet, close-knit community of Prospect, Jamaica, Kimesha Walters overcame the disadvantage of finding inspiration within her small community to become a trailblazing entrepreneur.
Despite the setback within her community, Walters had loving people around her and teachers who saw her potential and helped to nurture it from an early age. It was her teachers who gave her the confidence to continue to grow more, learn more, and to step into her greatness.
Being in Canada and having to face the job application process was a particular challenge for Walters. Coming from a Jamaican background, it would be easy for one to land a job through a recommendation and maybe one interview. In Canada, Walters became disheartened as she was sending out dozens of applications and did not receive one offer.
Walters came from a wealthy background in communications. She worked as a journalist for a top media house in the Caribbean, The Gleaner, and she has also worked for top: advertising, marketing, and public relation agencies in Jamaica. So, when moving to Canada, she already developed a firm foundation needed to get into the market. She knew there would be some difficulties with finding work. She overcame the struggle by searching for jobs that aligned with her skills, and she told herself she only needed one job, no matter how many places she applied to.
This did not shatter Walter’s confidence, as she knew she had the skills and would get exceptional results when doing a variety of services for her clients. Starting the business was second nature for Walters.
In 2010, eight years before migrating to Canada, she started her charity, Amazing Prospects, with funds out of her own pocket. When invited to be a guest speaker at her private school in her home country, she wanted to do more than just speak. She gave back to her community by purchasing textbooks for students who did not have the funds to purchase one themselves. Giving back gave Walters a good feeling. So, she continues to keep the charity running and give back to her community.
The one meaningful difference led to her volunteering at several organizations, and she became the youngest person to become president of the Clarendon College Alumni As-
sociation in Canada. The latter achievement reminded her of the level of her impact as she moved to Canada in 2018 and became the president three years later in 2021.
Walters is a strategist by design. This means she likes to do her research and create a road map to help guide her in what she does to ensure she has the best chance at success. She did her research on who was serving in the Canadian market, what the services were like, and how it matches up to the work she was doing in Jamaica. By this time, Walters already had an astounding list of clients she was working with in the United States and travelled there for major conferences and events.
To also help get her business off the ground, Walters reached out to a wider community to get an idea of how people in the space were serving by aligning herself with different network groups. The most useful group for Walters was the Canadian Small Businesswomen, which she found to be very useful in giving her an idea of the lay of the land.
In 2019, Walters established Oasis Integrated Communications. Around that time, she was dealing with the struggle of looking for work. To help her figure out where to go from there, Walters took a weekend trip to Niagara Falls, where she planned the vision for her business before registering it, the name and allowing everything else to fall in place. “How can I get them to do good or better in the community and use that as a tool for elevating the status of the brand or business,” said Walters.
The purpose of Oasis Integrated Communications is to help her clients, which are typically business owners, entrepreneurs, and C-Suite executives, tell their stories in a way that magnetizes people towards them. Their stories are told through press releases, feature stories, and social media content. Walters also helps her clients develop Corporate Social Responsibility campaigns that put them in the spotlight and allow them to develop a smooth relationship with their community.
Through Oasis Integrated Communications, one of Walters’ biggest accomplishments was leading a masterclass for the Scotiabank Women Initiative. It was a big and meaningful event for her because she was helping dozens of women achieve access to free information on strategy, branding, and communications to grow their business. She also partnered with Startup Canada as an eco
system support partner for their tour across the country last year.
Overall, her biggest achievement is bringing amazing results for her clients. A client who comes to mind is Rebecca Bamford, a Hamilton-based small business owner, who operates a toy store called Citizen Kid. Bamford was depending on Instagram to promote her business and struggled to get engagement and impressions on her posts. Walters came up with a strategy touching different points to help Bamford’s business. The strategy proved to be a success with sales increasing by 10 percent, website traffic spiking up by nine times the usual amount, and an increase in engagements and impressions by 1,000 percent. The success led to Bamford receiving a feature in an industry publication in New York.
Walters has used her platform in numerous ways to help break barriers as a woman of colour. She has aligned herself with entrepreneurship, newcomers to Canada, and the BIPOC community at different points, where she can: give advice, elevate people, and somewhat become an enabler of their greatness. She has also used Oasis Integrated Communications to align with different organizations that cater to dire needs and advancing the women in the community through volunteering, seminars and workshops.
For Walters, it’s an honour to be acknowledged by receiving the prestigious Mantella Corporation BIPOC Entrepreneur Grant Award. To be selected out of 243 applicants is mind-bending for her. The award empowers her to take a step further in how she would serve her community, clients, charity and have an impact on Canada and Jamaica.
Walters continues to use her award for service to: Startup Canada, YWCA, Canadian Small Business Women, the BIPOC community and the two countries she calls home, Canada and Jamaica.
Written by Sydnee Walcott Toronto Caribbean News
“Medical knowledge is under commercial control — but most doctors don’t know that which is why the problem has persisted for so long.” Dr. Aseem Malhotra
The mainstream media, beholden to pharmaceutical advertising dollars, will never tell this story. That’s why Dr. Aseem Malhotra is turning to you – the public –for support. Your support will ensure that this message remains untainted by commercial interests, free to speak truth to power without fear, or favour.
For years, we have placed our trust in the pharmaceutical industry. We have been taught to believe that: every ailment, every discomfort, every imbalance can be fixed with a pill, or a prescription. We rely on doctors to provide solutions, to guide us toward health, and we believe in their ability to heal us. What if the very things we’re depending on— those pills, those medications—are doing more harm than good?
The truth is, too often, the drugs
were prescribed to mask the symptoms without addressing the root cause. They provide temporary relief, but at what cost? Side effects, dependency, longterm damage to our bodies, and even worse poisons disguised as medicine that slowly chip away at our well-being.
We live in a system where the goal isn’t to cure but to keep us coming back. A system where profit is prioritized over true healing. The same pharmaceutical companies that make billions each year on these medications benefit from keeping us sick, from treating symptoms instead of promoting wellness.
This isn’t about distrust in our doctors, but we must acknowledge that they, too, are caught in this system. They follow guidelines shaped by big pharma—prescribing drugs without always knowing the long-term impact they’ll have on our bodies, our minds, and our lives.
The harsh reality is this: we are drowning in a sea of pharmaceuticals, pushed upon us by an industry that has long since abandoned its moral compass in pursuit of profit. Big Pharma, more powerful and profitable than ever before, has infiltrated every aspect of our healthcare system. Our regulatory bodies, meant to protect us, have instead become puppets of the very corporations they should be overseeing.
Let’s be clear – this is not a victimless crime. The cost is measured in human lives. In suffering, and the erosion
of trust in a system that should heal, not harm.
“First Do No Pharm,” a documentary that premiered September 23rd, 2024 in London’s Odeon theater, takes a deep dive into how pharmaceutical corporations unethically influence medical journals and regulatory agencies in ways that harm patients — while generating profits for themselves.
Dr. Aseem Malhotra, the U.K.based cardiologist behind the film, told The Defender, “It’s a real eye-opener for people in the mainstream.”
The documentary included commentary from international doctors and public figures including: Vandana Shiva, Ph.D., Dr. Satish Gupta, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Kim Witczak, Jay Naidoo, Calley Means and others.
Dr. Malhotra is a world-renowned expert in the prevention, diagnosis and management of heart disease. In the film, he explains how he grew critical of the practice of widely prescribing statins — drugs that lower a person’s cholesterol — when he noticed his patients reported side effects at a higher rate than what the medical literature reported.
His observations suggested roughly 1 in 5 patients who took statins had muscle pain and fatigue, while the published literature said the risk was closer to 1 in every 100. When Malhotra and other doctors wrote articles about the issue in The BMJ, the pharmaceutical industry called for the articles’ retraction
and encouraged news outlets to depict doctors critical of statins as propaganda spreaders.
“Most doctors don’t even realize that the research that they use to make [decisions] is often, if not mostly, unreliable and potentially harmful — purely for the purpose of making money for these industries,” Dr. Malhotra shares.
The solution is to correct the commercial distortion of scientific evidence by eliminating conflicts of interest. Regulators can’t be taking money from pharmaceutical companies.
The film highlights how millions of people were killed when the pharmaceutical industry hid data on the harmful effects of their products. “Drugs should be independently evaluated by scientists who have the rigor to do these sorts of analyses, who are not connected to industry,” explains Dr. Malhotra.
The film has received great reviews so far because it shows viewers the root of the problem, but also offers solutions. The two-hour film is available for download for roughly $10.
The time for complacency is over. We must demand transparency, accountability, and a drastic reduction in the influence of Big Pharma on our lives. Your support for this film is more than a contribution – it’s a declaration that you won’t stand idly by while our health is bartered away in boardrooms.
100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women Project honours exemplary and
inspiring females
It was an inspiring and amazing evening on Saturday, September 29th, 2024, when: guests, honourees, family members and friends gathered at the Woodbine Banquet Hall. The special occasion and ceremony was the fourth annual 100 Accomplished Black Canadian (ABC) Women Awards. There were over 1,000 guests in attendance who witnessed the best of Black excellence and greatness of the 100 ABC Women Award honourees who were present.
The LinkedIn page of the 100 Accomplished Black Canada Women Project describes its mission, vision, and goals. The mission/vision includes:
• Highlight, document, and make visible the accomplishments of Black Canadian women specifically unsung heroes, trailblazer firsts, and posthumous heroes.
• Support the social, educational, political, and professional advancement and contributions that Black Canadian women have made to this country.
• Build a publication that does not exist but is needed to fill a void.
The genesis of this project originated from ongoing conversations among specific individuals that lasted six months which resulted in archival documentation. This unique publication was intended to inspire Black girls and women by highlighting examples of the many contributions Black women have and continue to make in Canadian society. The goal of this informative and educational publication is to: highlight, document, acknowledge, and support the accomplishments of Black Canadian women in terms of their: social, educational, political, and professional accomplishments.
One of the honourees, Dr. Camisha Sibblis, professor, and registered social worker wrote on her LinkedIn page what it means to receive this honour. She writes, “I am so honoured and proud to have been counted as a contemporary to some of the most phenomenal women, who have poured their hearts and souls into their work for our people. Congratulations to all of the esteemed honourees. Well done.”
Valerie Augustine, entrepreneur and business woman, one of the honourees posted on her Facebook page. She wrote, “This acknowledgement highlights the importance of representation and our impact with communities. I extend my gratitude to my: family, friends, mentors, customers, and community for their steadfast support. To my fellow honourees, your achievements: inspire, energize, and motivate me, and together we can break barriers
within our respective spaces for future generations.”
Moy Fung, author, founder, and trainer of “You Inspire Me Women,” posted a message on her LinkedIn page as one of the honourees. It reads, “To say that I’ve barely scratched the surface of my life’s work, feels like an understatement. I am deeply humbled and truly honoured to receive this prestigious award, founded by the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, Donna Jones-Simmons, and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green. A heartfelt thank you to the entire 100 ABC Women team for your dedication, hard work, and commitment to making this event and publication a reality. Your efforts mean the world to us, and we are profoundly grateful for the recognition. This is a moment I will carry with me forever.”
The Greater Essex County District School Board acknowledged one of its employees Shantelle who was an ABC Women honouree. The post reads, “In honour of Women’s History Month, we are excited to highlight Shantelle Browning-Morgan, an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher at Kennedy Collegiate Institute. Her unwavering commitment to education and the preservation of Black Canadian history has earned her recognition as one of the distinguished members of the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women 2024.”
Another one of the honourees was Andria Case, who is well-known in the Toronto media community as an anchor on CTV News Toronto. She was born in England and has worked for news companies such as: CFPL-TV, CHWI-TV News and CFPL-TV. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Advertising from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University).
There were several honourees from Nova Scotia: Dr. Mayann Elizabeth Francis who served as Lieutenant Governor for Nova Scotia in 2006, Dr. Karen Hudson, Roselle Fraser, Nicole Johnson, Lana Maclean, Sylvia Paris-Drummond and Chance Parsons.
Another honouree was Dr. Ingrid Waldron, Canadian social scientist who is a Professor and the HOPE Chair in Peace and Health in the Global Peace and Social Justice Program at McMaster University. She is the co-producer of the Netflix film based on her book, “There’s Something in the Water.” She will be part of a documentary screening on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, at McMaster Continuing Education in Hamilton, and on Tuesday, October 29th, 2024, at Cecil Community Centre in Toronto based on a project she is building to build capacity around climate change in Black communities in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Her new book, “From the Enlightenment to Black Lives Matter: Tracing the Impacts of Racial Trauma in Black Communities from the Colonial Era to the Present,” will be released on November 25th, 2024.
The evening featured performances by the legendary and well-known AfricanCanadian singer, Liberty Singer who entertained the audience with her deeply moving and uplifting songs. In addition, Eddie Bullen and songs performed a number of pieces that showcase a vast repertoire of genres.
Return of the Prince of Pan-Africanism; Toronto welcomes back Dr. Umar Ifatunde after 12 years!
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Peace and Pan-Africanism Toronto! Last weekend, we invited the man known as the King of Controversy back to our great city. Dr. Umar Ifatunde, a renowned figure in the fields of education and mental health, is a name that is widely recognized by all, and his impact on the Afrikan and AfrikanAmerican community is undeniable. As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and Certified School Psychologist, Dr. Umar has dedicated his career to advocating for the well-being and academic success of Black children.
Rooted in a rich historical lineage, Dr. Umar is a paternal kinsman to both the great Abolitionist Frederick Douglass and the late Bishop Alexander Wayman, two prominent figures in the fight for racial equality. This connection underscores his deep-seated commitment to social justice and the preservation of Afrikan heritage.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Umar is a passionate educator and community leader. He has founded and leads the
“Unapologetically Afrikan” Black College & Consciousness Tour,” a transformative experience for young people that fosters a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and introduces them to the rich history of Afrikan- American colleges and universities. Additionally, his weekly Afrikan-American parent teleconference provides invaluable support and guidance to parents seeking to advocate for their children’s education and mental health.
Dr. Umar’s influence extends beyond academia and community work. His name, quotes, and speeches have been referenced and celebrated in the world of Hip-Hop music, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. His dedication to empowering Afrikan communities and promoting social justice has made him a highly sought-after scholar and a respected voice in the fight for equality.
The: GACN, Black Board International, RastaFest, EPG Creative Marketplace, AfroGlobal, Caribbean Vibrations, FAM TV and of course The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper welcomed the Prince of Pan-Africanism Dr. Umar Ifatunde to Toronto after 12 long years away.
The weekend of October 4th6th, 2024, was a whirlwind of intellectual and cultural engagement, beginning with a Meet & Greet with Dr. Umar Johnson at The Real Jerk Legacy Restaurant in Toronto. The event, part of the 1st Fridays series, featured a book signing, Q&A session, and
networking opportunities.
The following day, the energy shifted to Oshawa’s The Lighthouse for a networking event designed to connect industry leaders with emerging entrepreneurs. Special guests including Farley Flex, DeWitt Lee, and JahWigs, along with musical performances by Lindo P and others, created a vibrant atmosphere.
On Sunday October 6th, 2024, Dr. Umar delivered a powerful address on PanAfricanism at the Jamaican Canadian Association. Dr. Umar, often referred to as the “King of Controversy,” has earned this title through his unapologetic and often polarizing views on issues impacting the Black community. Hosted by, well, me (Yeah), I had the opportunity to sit on stage and intellectually dialogue with Sis. Elaine Robinson (G.H.E.T.T.O Stories), Elder Szimbah Hanley, and Dr. Umar before he went IN on all of us. When I say he went in, I mean he went IN!
He has sparked intense debate with his critique of interracial dating, asserting that it undermines the unity and progress of Afrikan men and women in the diaspora. Dr. Umar harshly criticized parents, calling out both mothers and fathers for being “lazy” and failing to provide the necessary care and guidance for their children. His outspoken views that night extend to the education system, which he stated is neglecting Afrikan-Caribbean children, leaving them vulnerable to sys-
temic oppression. He also highlights the need for fathers to seek mental health support, emphasizing that unresolved mental health issues prevent them from being present for their families.
Dr. Umar asserts that parents should stop vaccinating their children, claiming that vaccines are responsible for the increasing rates of autism in young children. He argues that the substances used in vaccines, particularly those containing certain preservatives and additives, have been linked to developmental disorders, including autism.
Dr. Umar emphasized the need for parents to conduct their own research and exercise caution before adhering to standard vaccination schedules, as he believes the medical community has overlooked potential adverse effects. His stance encouraged parents to prioritize their children’s health by opting out of vaccines, despite widespread scientific consensus supporting their safety.
When KINGS unite, the possibilities are endless. Teamwork makes the dream work. It was a historical weekend in Canada. Three successful events in three cities. Big respect to Kofi (Culture Power / GACN), Warren Salmon (First Fridays), Jamaal (EmProGraffix / Network & Build) and of course our special guest Dr. Umar Ifatunde.
United Achievers’ Club celebrates academic excellence at its 40th Annual Scholarships and Recognition
paul@carib101.com
The United Achievers’ Club continues to make a difference in the lives of promising and exemplary students through its scholarship program. This was evident in the show of support by: family members, community members and well-wishers at its 40th Annual Scholarship and Recognition Awards held on Saturday, September 14th, 2024, at the Mississauga Grand Banquet & Event Centre. It was truly a great evening of celebration as the smiles on the faces of the recipients attest to the importance of this event.
In the program, Joyce TempleSmith, President of the UAC writes, “We are thrilled to welcome you here tonight. We would especially like to give a special welcome to the 12 well-deserving young recipients. They are truly a beacon of hope for our future. I would like to recognize and congratulate their parents and guardians. They were able to encourage and inspire these young people to pursue academic excellence when there is much distraction around all of us.”
Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton states, “Since 1980 the United Achievers Club has raised the profile and consciousness of Black and Caribbean communities in the wider society. Your members have provided effective and meaningful role models for our youth. It is great to see the integration of the Black and Caribbean cul-
tures into the wider community; and to link with existing community services to provide educational resources.”
Dr. Darlene A Weekes, anesthesiologist at Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) writes, “I would like to express my sincere congratulations to the recipients of the 2024 United Achievers’ Club Scholarships. You have demonstrated a great commitment to your studies and community and are an inspiration to me and others. I have no doubt that the foundation you have created through your focus and hard work will only help as you continue to pursue your goals. I encourage you to humbly remember those who are less fortunate and seek opportunities to assist and provide leadership. I wish you continued success in all future endeavors. Congratulations!”
Charles Matthews Jr served as the master of ceremony of the evening’s program. He is well-known for being an avid supporter of many community events. He is the CEO of CMJ Entertainment Inc and in 2023 received the Community Award from the UAC. BePraize Saw was the featured performer and he serenaded the crowd with his emotionally moving and entertaining pieces on the saxophone.
The keynote speech was delivered by family lawyer, Shawn Knights. He was a previous recipient of the UAC scholarship in 1999. His speech was motivational in nature as he commends the recipients for their: hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He is confident that they will continue on the path of excellence, on their road to greatness.
There were twelve scholarships that were awarded to these recipients:
Ifeoluwa Diri
She graduated from Brampton Centen-
nial Secondary School, and will be pursuing Liberal Arts and Professional Studies at York University.
Ronell Glasgow
She graduated from Turner Fenton Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Building Renovation Technology Program at George Brown College.
Jahmarley John
He graduated from Central Peel Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Civil Engineering program at Humber College.
Nathan Johnson
He graduated from Louise Arbour Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Building Renovation Technology Advanced Diploma Program at George Brown College.
Abigail Joseph
She graduated from Rick Hansen Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Liberal Arts and Professional Studies at York University.
Garvellia Livert
She graduated from North Park Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Honours Bachelor of Computing Program at Queen’s University specializing in Cyber Security.
Kaiya Matthews
She graduated from Mayfield Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Program (Performance Dance) at TMU
Nicholas McClean
He graduated from Mayfield Secondary for the visual arts program, and is enrolled in the Architecture Technology Program at Humber College
Awards
Cienna Mitchell
She graduated from St. Edmund Campion Catholic Secondary School, and is enrolled in the BSc in the Health Sciences program at Wilfrid Laurier University.
Calvin Ssebyala
He graduated from Turner Fenton Secondary School, and is enrolled in the Honours Geography and Environmental Management Co-op program at the University of Waterloo.
Horecia Williams
She graduated from Lincoln Alexander Secondary School and is enrolled in the Honours Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the Mississauga campus of the University of Toronto.
Aloni Wilson
She graduated from St. Marguerite d’Youville Catholic Secondary School, and is enrolled in the BSc degree in Social Sciences at McMaster University.
I spoke to Dr. Camille Logan during the course of the evening. She is proud of the fact that 10 of the 12 recipients graduated from PDSB’s schools.
President Joyce of UAC and PDSB’s Trustee Kathy McDonald presented the community award to Inspector Joy Edwards and the appreciation awards to the Kiwanis Club of Brampton. The Kiwanis Club has been instrumental in the amount that they contributed to the scholarships over the years. They have given about $150,000 for over 25 years towards the UAC scholarships.
Doreen Manning and Marva Hemmings presented a cheque for $2,907.00 to the William Osler Health System Foundation (WOHSF).
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“Hi Auntie! I am in trouble and need your help. Can you send $2,000 right away? It’s an emergency. Just wire it to the account I’ve attached to this message. I’ll explain later.”
You look at your phone confused; why wouldn’t she just call me? This doesn’t seem like her. Your phone rings, jolting you out of your confused thoughts.
“Hey Auntie, what’s up?” It is your niece. Perfect! Now is the chance to ask her if everything is okay. “Are you okay? I just got a video from you asking for money. It didn’t sound right.”
“No!” Your niece says emphatically. “I did not send any video. That’s a scam! Someone must have created a fake video of me. It’s called a deepfake. Yeah, they can make it look and sound like me, but it’s not real. Always double-check if something seems off, and don’t send any money unless you talk to me first!”
The dangers and genius of deepfakes: A modern digital threat
This is not the first time that I have shared this information with you. I realize that sometimes we must hear, read, or see information more than once for it to take into our thoughts. Deepfakes are one of those offshoots of generative AI technology that were fun and rather innocuous in the beginning, but it didn’t take long for them to turn malicious.
Deepfake tech is nothing new; it’s been on display in different environments for years, helping, at first, to bring back or de-age actors in movies. Then, in 2017, the same tech was leveraged to create fake pornography of celebrities, an issue that has since gotten worse.
Back then, it took people — good, or bad actors — hours, and sometimes days, to produce deepfakes that, even then, looked very obviously synthetic. Deepfakes aren’t just slapping one person’s face onto another’s body. The AI behind them carefully analyzes facial movements, expressions, and even how light and shadow interact with the face. This ensures that when the face moves, the angles and details remain consistent, making the fake almost impossible to detect without expert analysis.
Voice deepfakes take it a step further by mimicking the: pitch, accent, and cadence of a person’s speech. It’s not just about getting the sound right; it’s about
replicating a person’s unique speech patterns, pauses, and even emotional intonations. This level of precision makes it extremely difficult to differentiate a fake from a real recording.
Deepfakes also play on our trust in video and audio as unshakeable evidence. For decades, if something was captured on video, it was regarded as proof. This psychological reliance on visual and auditory cues is exactly what deepfakes exploit. Even when we know deepfakes exist, it can be hard to shake the instinct to believe our eyes and ears.
The implications of this are as real as they are obvious — the past year has been marked by reports of AI-generated: deepfake images, videos, phone calls and Zoom calls that have served a variety of nefarious purposes, from targeted sexual harassment to electoral misinformation, fraud, identity theft and thievery. Earlier this year, scammers stole $25 million from a company after appearing as a lineup of the company’s leadership in a Zoom call, asking a real employee to move money to a different account.
This is the problem Datambit is aiming to solve. Datambit, a nine-monthold British startup, has developed an AIpowered model called Genui that’s designed specifically for deepfake detection. The system employs machine learning al-
gorithms to detect anomalies in: video, audio and visual content, identifying certain patterns that could indicate the presence of a deepfake, or otherwise manipulated content.
It includes: facial recognition algorithms, audio analysis, voice biometrics and audio forensics. Genui can analyze audio spectrograms (they show how the energy, or intensity of different frequencies in an audio signal changes as time progresses) to identify elements suggestive of a deepfake. Working with specific people, the model can use vocal biometrics to verify the identity of a speaker based on previous vocal samples.
Hari Natarajan, a member of Datambit’s advisory board, shared that right now, the company is in an early stage of beta testing; at the moment, the system is a bit closed-off, requiring early test adopters to either bulk-upload material through its API, or directly upload material into its detection engine. He said that “At the end of the day, this solution can go to pretty much anybody that’s out there.”
Datambit plans to focus on the financial services industry first, “because that looks like an early pain point.”
Tools of detection are great for dealing with deepfakes, but as digital consumers, we have to remain educated when it comes to technological advances.
The world deserves full transparency and the ability to make informed decisions without being led to them
BY ADRIAN REECE TORONTO CARIBBEAN REPORTER
Monkeypox has been speculated to become a new potential pandemic. It is the new concern that is at the back of everyone’s mind. People see images online and fear creeps into their minds, reminding them of the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic years ago. So far over 120 countries have reported more than 103,000 cases of monkeypox since the global outbreak in 2022, and 2024 itself boasts a staggering number of cases at over 25,000. Monkeypox has claimed 723 lives across the continent of Africa based on data as of September 2024.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken steps to get ahead of this concern by approving their first vaccine against monkeypox or mpox for short.
The new vaccine going by the name MVABN is safe for people over the age of eighteen and is given in two doses one month apart.
Since this vaccine was developed for adults, children are naturally susceptible to the disease. In place of creating a safe vaccine for young people, the head of research at the WHO Dr Ana-Maria Restropo stated in a media briefing that Congo could use off-label vaccines for children to battle mpox. Off-label in medicine is the practice of prescribing a drug for a different purpose than the FDA originally approved it for. The first dose is stated to have a 76% effectiveness in protecting people from the disease with the second dose increasing this number to 82%, and vaccination after exposure is less effective. This is a rushed decision considering the fear we faced when Covid took
over our lives. This generation will compare every disease with the potential to start a pandemic to Covid and the lowdown that took place. That is the impact it has left on us, and with the rushed vaccine and rules that were changed so frequently, it is difficult to place trust in the WHO.
The approval of this vaccine will aid national regulators in approving and releasing their own vaccines, in their eyes fighting mpox and keeping people safe. Unfortunately, the trust is so shaken it is difficult for this generation to willingly take these vaccines that are being pumped out. An important precedent that ruling bodies need to take into account is building a reputation of transparency with the people they are supposed to be serving.
Building trust would involve extensive testing before releasing medicinal products that we are expected to take. In-
depth explanations of the contents of anything that we would be required to take, and the allowance of free speech of doctors of all walks of life. Doctors have differing opinions just like people in any other profession. The discourse over medicine would allow people who aren’t trained in medicine to be able to make more informed decisions without being subjected to one perspective.
While this has the potential to set a dangerous precedent for the information we consume, free knowledge is worth the risk. Especially in the light of how the WHO and CDC (Centre For Disease Control) handled the last pandemic. The world deserves full transparency and the ability to make informed decisions without being led to them, or coerced into taking something that they will never understand, or are given the opportunity to understand.
Insufficient testing and a lack of transparency contributed to a growing distrust in the healthcare system
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“A serious and permanent injury is defined as a severe, life-threatening or lifealtering injury that may require in-person hospitalization, or a prolongation of existing hospitalization, and results in persistent or significant disability or incapacity, or where the outcome is a congenital malformation or death.” World Health Organization (WHO)
They told us vaccines were safe, and we believed them... until many of our worlds were turned upside down. You got a shot, just like everyone else, but for you, it was different. It was like your body decided to revolt. You know that your experience is not the norm; most people seemed to have no problems at all, or so they said but for you, it was a terrifying ordeal. There are things that have begun to happen that were not happening until after your first, second, or third shot of the government endorsed vaccine.
The widespread distribution of the COVID-19 injection (vaccine) has raised serious concerns about its safety and efficacy. Many individuals report being misled or pressured into taking this drug without a full understanding of its potential risks. Insufficient testing and a lack of transparency contributed to a growing distrust in the healthcare system. As evidence mounts of adverse reactions and long-term side effects, it is imperative to demand greater accountability and prioritize the well-being of those affected.
The government’s coercion and manipulation to inject harmful substances into our bodies under the guise of medical necessity has caused untold suffering. All around us, people are dying or struggling with inexplicable health issues that go unaddressed.
This is why I would like to make the community aware that October is Vaccine Injury Awareness Month. Vaccine Injury Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about the potential adverse effects of vaccines. There is the claim that vaccines are generally safe and effective, but unfortunately, there have been documented instances where individuals have experienced serious side effects, and adverse reactions.
Insurance companies. Hospitals. Big Pharma. They all make money when you or your child have a chronic disease. The earlier a kid gets sick, the bigger the profits.
The science couldn’t be clearer. Injecting babies and children with vaccine after vaccine weakens their immune systems and leads to a lifetime of everything from mild allergies to severe asthma to a range of devastating neurological injuries including autism, which has had a devastating affecting on African children living in the diaspora.
The CDC says 1 in 36 kids now has autism. Public health officials try to “normalize” these skyrocketing numbers, but every parent of a child with autism knows there’s nothing normal about full-blown autism.
There is nothing more devastating to parents than knowing their child was healthy until a “routine” vaccine changed everything. Some of these children will never throw a baseball or be able to participate in any athletic sports. Never graduate from high school. Never get a job. Never write a play or a poem. Never vote. Never live a full, independent life.
Our government has no plan for how to foot the bill for these kids’ care when they grow up, when their parents die, or can no longer care for them. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical industry analysts gleefully project the U.S. “market” for caring for autistic kids will top $13.14 billion by 2030. It appears that a vaccine-injured child is just another profit center. Thankfully, more and more people are waking up to the lies and corruption.
I want you readers to be aware of the fact that you might be experiencing a vaccine injury and not even know it. A vaccine injury refers to an adverse effect, or health complication that occurs after receiving a vaccine. A vaccine injury could involve severe reactions. These might include allergic responses such as: swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives, neurological issues like seizures, or Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), or prolonged symptoms that impair daily function. Reports have shown that it has affected women’s menstrual cycles, and cardiac arrest numbers have gone up significantly. We have all heard of these sudden deaths, where perfectly young, healthy athletes are dropping dead on soccer fields, and basketball courts.
Clearly the Canadian government has been aware of these adverse reactions and have established a Vaccine Injury Support Program (VISP)
This is financial support provided by the government regardless of who is responsible, or possibly at fault. For example, the: claimant, manufacturer, or health professional administering the vaccine. It does not require the claimant to seek legal representation or solicit expert medical review (beyond their attending physician’s report). The program provides: fair, timely and equitable financial compensation to individuals who experience serious vaccine injuries.
Pan-Canadian Vaccine Injury Support Program
The Pan-Canadian Vaccine Injury Support Program ensures that all people in Canada who have experienced a serious and permanent injury as a result of receiving a Health Canada authorized vaccine, administered in Canada on, or after December 8th, 2020, have fair and timely access to financial support. As of April 2024, the federal government has added $36.4 million to a program designed to support people who have been seriously injured or killed by vaccines since the end of 2020.
The Vaccine Injury Support Program (VISP) provided compensation to individuals who have experienced serious and permanent injuries, or death resulting from receiving a Health Canada-authorized vaccine. To be eligible, the vaccine must have been administered in Canada on, or after December 8th, 2020, and the injury must have been reported to a healthcare provider. Claims could be submitted within three years from the date of vaccination, the date of death, or when the injury first became apparent. The program aimed to support those who have suffered significant harm following vaccination.
I want to note here that in the past year, 99% of claims were related to COVID-19 vaccines. There have been many different injuries claimed and each is assessed individually.
As a newspaper, it is our duty to raise awareness within our community about the dangers of these forced medical interventions. We must inform our readers about the steps they can take if they experience adverse effects, from seeking legal recourse to connecting with healthcare professionals who prioritize patient safety. The time has come to speak truth to power and protect our community from further harm.
It is becoming easier to unscramble the COVID censored information online says researchers
MICHAEL THOMAS
michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
For the better part of the last four years now, many search engines and even social media platforms have either been: censoring, rewriting, and even outright banning folks who are trying to educate others, or just themselves about the Plandemic, or what have now become known as the COVID lies.
There is good news for all who are interested in the truth, and this comes in the form of what is now called The COVID Index. What, or who is the COVID Index? They are a volunteer-run directory of scientific resources on COVID-19, ranging from peerreviewed journal papers to whistleblower accounts, in collaboration with CHD aka The Children’s Health Defense
According to the members, the idea for The COVID Index originated in 2021,
when one of the volunteers involved in the project, who goes by the pseudonym “Juror No. 8” developed a document titled “COVID-19 The Science We Should Know.”
These determined folks behind this project are utilizing many tools at their disposal including the much talked about Way Back Machine to uncover hidden and censored truths and present them to humanity. According to these experts, this is called “censored science and expertise” and is: “categorized, excerpted, and searchable.”
This type of information is special news, especially when a person lives in places like Canada where the current regime is making every effort necessary to stifle the truth and pass so-called laws to keep the citizens in the dark from numerous points of view.
Imagine not being able to access or share news links on social platforms like Facebook here in Canada, a country that not long ago, used to label other world leaders as dictators.
Here are a few insightful quotes from some COVID Index team members. Ursula Conway, president of CHD’s Arizona chapter, is one of the volunteers involved in the initiative. She told The Defender, “The COVID Index is a research tool, a quick reference guide that cuts through online censor-
ship.”
Kim Bare, another volunteer with the project, said The COVID Index is akin to “An online card catalog of information sources related primarily to COVID.”
Epidemiologist M. Nathaniel Mead is also involved with this project. He told The Defender, “Only contributions from accredited scientists and medical professionals are included, with care taken to exclude non-expert opinions.”
Mead said this database is mindful to make very clear many types of subterfuge used to mislead the general public and medical communities. “The COVID Index is a response to the widespread censorship of scientific papers that questioned mainstream narratives related to COVID-19, the response to the pandemic, and the COVID-19 shots.”
A very classic example of this type of censorship took place when Dr. Rashid Buttar stood up against the COVID-19 lying narrative. He was de-platformed by most social media sites, ridiculed by so-called mainstream media, and finally gotten rid of.
The COVID Index exposes the fallacious nature of rhetoric such as, “Science is settled,” or “There’s a strong scientific consensus on safety and efficacy of the COVID vaccines,’” Mead added.
These lies told by those upholding the COVID narrative and Big Pharma are being debunked daily, here is one. “A peer-reviewed study published September 10th in Vaccine contradicts a 2022 statement by the WHO that ‘Hybrid immunity offers superior protection against severe outcomes due to COVID-19 compared to infection-induced or vaccine-induced immunity alone.”
Here is the outcome of this study and its conclusion. The combination of COVID-19 injection and COVID-19 infection was linked to severe heart failure and cardiogenic shock in patients who experienced a STEMI heart attack, according to a new peer-reviewed study.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a type of heart attack that mainly affects the heart’s lower chambers. Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition in which the heart suddenly cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. COVID Index would like the public to know this. “If people want to contribute regularly, the website is set up so contributors can get registered and add potential index entries themselves via a form on the website.”
The Legacy Awards; Showcasing diverse talent and celebrating the contributions of underrepresented communities
The stage was set for a night of glitz, glamour, and celebration at Toronto’s most anticipated award ceremony, honoring the very best in Black entertainment. The city’s brightest stars, from media personalities to talented artists and impactful content creators, arrived in style, dressed to the nines, and radiating excellence. With the spotlight on them, they showcased the talent, creativity, and cultural influence that make Toronto not only a hub for entertainment, but one of the greatest cities in the world.
On Sunday, September 29th, 2024 at HISTORY (1663 Queen Street East) The Black Academy honoured the best and brightest in Black Canadian talent at The Legacy Awards, a star-studded live broadcast on CBC and CBC Gem, hosted by Adrian Holmes. The Legacy
Awards aired live on CBC and streams CBC Gem on Sunday, September 29th, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. AT/9:30 p.m. NT)
Honourees included Cameron Bailey (Visionary Award), Kardinal Offishall (Icon Award), Weyni Mengesha (Trailblazer Award) and a special Athlete Tribute for recent Olympic Gold medalists – hammer throw champion Camryn Rogers and the men’s 4x100 metre relay team, Aaron Brown, Andre De Grasse, Brendon Rodney, and Jerome Blake.
The night kicked off in style with the infamous Black Carpet, where celebrities arrived to dazzle under the spotlight. Cameras flashed as some of our favorite stars made their grand entrance, including Executive Producers Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, alongside charismatic host Adrian Holmes. Visionary Award recipient Cameron Bailey, Trailblazer Award honoree Weyni Mengesha, and the legendary Kardinal Offishall, who was celebrated with the Icon Award, all graced the carpet. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as these luminaries and many more lit up the night, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening!
The Fan Choice Nominees in-
cluded: Access By Tay (Toronto); Citron Rose (Montréal); OT The OG (Toronto); Queeny Kuffour (Toronto); Ryan Holtz (Edmonton); and Toni Olaoye (Toronto).
The Legacy Awards Fan Choice Digital Content Creator Award was presented to OT The OG, a fitness enthusiast, fitness coach, and owner of the FemaleOnly fitness facility, Club Enhergy. This award allowed fans to choose their favourite Black-identifying Canadian digital content creators.
OT The OG attained her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto for Sociology & Psychology, and her post-graduate degree in Human Resources at George Brown College. After experiencing both parents suffer from severe illnesses, she was compelled to take control of her own health at a very young age. In 2018, she left the corporate world to pursue this passion and in 2020 she created a fitness brand for women called “Enhergy,” an e-commerce business which sold fitness bands, apparel, and more. She now runs “Club Enhergy,” a one-of-a-kind fitness facility, which opened in August 2021.
PartyNextDoor was awarded 2024 Artist of the Year, for his pivotal role
in reshaping the modern R&B and hiphop sound and bringing Caribbean and dancehall influences to contemporary urban music. His personalized lyrics and chart-topping collaborations with some of the biggest artists on the planet; and for his international influence, PartyNextDoor deserves to be recognized for his achievements.
It was an unforgettable evening that celebrated both the achievements and the vibrant spirit of the Black community in Toronto, and once again the Legacy Awards did not disappoint.
Award shows like the Legacy Awards play a crucial role in promoting representation, especially for young people who need to see reflections of themselves in spaces of achievement and recognition. These events highlight the successes of individuals who have pursued their dreams and worked toward their purpose, demonstrating that with determination, passion, and perseverance, greatness is within reach. By showcasing diverse talent and celebrating the contributions of underrepresented communities, such shows inspire the next generation to believe in their potential and strive for excellence.
Roll the dice and speak up, or else lose your rights and freedoms
STEVEN KASZAB
steven@carib101.com
TC COLUMNIST
where we must wear rose colored glasses ,while watching what we say and how we say it? There seems to be a global awareness of the influence of social media’s owners upon how their organizations manage and rule online participation. If you support someone like Trump, go ahead and scream bloody murder, but if you support an alternative better watch out folks. The online coppers are looking straight at you.
Special well-organized lobbyists and social groups have taken the act of victimhood to a whole new level. Say you are critical of the gay lifestyle, Black gangster culture, or the Roman Catholic Church. Speak up and face the consequences it seems. I was critical of the Catholic Churches treatment of the Aboriginal peoples, mentioning some of the churches leadership and bam off
Facebook was I.
Special interest groups have professionalized their ability to turn someone’s criticism into racist, or hurtful/hateful speech. Saying Israeli responses to the Hamas attack is wrongly carried out is considered: hateful, antisemitic, and wrongful minded. If you are a religious person who believes the gay lifestyle is biblically wrong and you say so, you’re considered: harmful, homophobic, and close minded. We hear the word “hateful or mean spirited” a lot, but words like “democratic, or truthful” within public venues not so much.
The democratic principles of free speech have been attacked within our schools of higher learning, both social and print media, and even in the offices of our leaders who tell us what we can say, think, and do. Are we a democracy folks? Can our institution survive
the public’s criticism?
Social media has become an institution within our society. It has been managed by its owners just like a weapon, weaponized against those who disagree with the 1% who control our economy and political institutions. Free speech cannot survive the artificial intelligence revolution. All our devices are and soon will be managed and policed by A.I. programs. We may never be able to speak out or express our opinions for fear of breaking some law initiated by the authorities to protect others.
Perhaps expressing the truth as we see it may be the only way beyond the up and coming totalitarianism of political high tech. Going to court with the ability to prove your point may be the only avenue left to a free person.
MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
They track what we read, what websites we visit, whether we are married and have children, our educational level, and income bracket, our location, our purchasing habits, our personal interests, and in some cases even our health conditions and religious faith.
They track what we do on and off their platforms, often combining their own information with enormous data sets purchased through the largely unregulated consumer data market.
Large firms are increasingly relying on hidden pixels and similar technologies embedded on other websites to track our behavior down to each click. In fact, the companies collected so much data that in response to the Commission’s questions, they often could not even identify all the data points they collected, or all the third parties they shared that data with.
The above information is a minute part of a 129-page report put together by FTC (aka Federal Trade Commission) based on responses to six orders issued in December 2020 to nine companies including some of the largest social media and video streaming services.
Technology has become a doubleedged sword; it is a good servant, but can become a bad master too, here is a case in
Someone once said data is the new gold: That was no lie
point.
The FTC has put out a new staff report, which reveals that the data collection and use practices of major social media and video streaming services show they engaged in vast surveillance of consumers most times without their knowledge. What is even worse, is that the data is being sold for billions of dollars. All this is done while failing to adequately protect users online, especially children and teens.
FTC Chair Lina M. Khan said, “While lucrative for the companies, these surveillance practices can endanger people’s privacy, threaten their freedoms, and expose them to a host of harms, from identity theft to stalking. Several firms’ failure to adequately protect kids and teens online is especially troubling. The report’s findings are timely, particularly as state and federal policymakers consider legislation to protect people from abusive data practices.”
The FTC issued orders to numerous social media and video streaming platforms requiring specific information from them. Here is some of what was required.
• How social media and video streaming services collect, use, track, estimate, or derive personal and demographic information;
• How they determine which ads and other content are shown to consumers.
• Whether they apply algorithms or data analytics to personal information.
• How they measure, promote, and research user engagement.
• How their practices affect children and teens.
The Commission voted 4-1 to issue the 6(b) orders to the nine social media and video service companies. According to the report,
here are some of the platforms involved: Amazon.com, Inc., which owns the gaming platform Twitch; Facebook, Inc. (now Meta Platforms, Inc.); YouTube LLC; Twitter, Inc. (now X Corp.); Snap Inc.; ByteDance Ltd., which owns the video-sharing platform TikTok; Discord Inc.; Reddit, Inc.; and WhatsApp Inc.
The report went on to reveal that the companies’ data collection, minimization, and retention practices were “woefully inadequate.” In addition, the staff report found that some companies did not delete all user data in response to user deletion requests. This reinforces the fact that people need to be extremely cautious when using these social media apps.
The owners and operators of these apps and platforms have unrestricted access to all your videos and photos that you share with your friends and lovers too, let that sink in. This is a case for users to be aware of.
When questioned these companies asserted that there were no children on their platform, yet that was proven untrue. According to the FTC’s staff report, this was an apparent attempt to avoid liability under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act Rule. The staff report found that the social media and video streaming services often treated teens the same as adult users, with most companies allowing teens on their platforms with no account restrictions.
Here are some of the recommendations that were concluded because of these findings by the FTC.
• Congress should pass comprehensive federal privacy legislation to limit surveillance, address baseline protections, and grant consumers data rights.
• Companies should limit data collection,
implement concrete and enforceable data minimization and retention policies, limit data sharing with third parties and affiliates, delete consumer data when it is no longer needed, and adopt consumer-friendly privacy policies that are clear, simple, and easily understood.
• Companies should not collect sensitive information through privacy-invasive ad-tracking technologies.
• Companies should carefully examine their policies and practices regarding ad targeting based on sensitive categories.
• Companies should address the lack of user control over how their data is used by systems as well as the lack of transparency regarding how such systems are used and should implement more stringent testing and monitoring standards for such systems.
• Companies should not ignore the reality that there are child users on their platforms and should treat COPPA as representing the minimum requirements and provide additional safety measures for children.
• Companies should recognize teens are not adults and provide them greater privacy protections.
• Congress should pass federal privacy legislation to fill the gap in privacy protections provided by COPPA for teens over the age of 13.
Let us be honest here. Readers, do you believe that people who sell your data for billions of dollars, and governments who use this same data to know everything about you, and to keep you living under digital slavery will relinquish this practice?
Joëlle Kabisoso: Giving Black girls and women a platform to seek justice
police, nor was she made aware of any additional services that would help her. The campaign highlighted Kabiososo’s experience to ensure that another youth does not endure what she and other youths endured.
sydnee@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Being a victim of sexual assault is a trauma one will never forget, or get over, but if they do overcome what they have endured, it is not an easy process.
In 2013, Joëlle Kabisoso, then age 17, was the victim of a racially motivated hate crime when she was gang raped by five White boys, who then posted a video of the assault on X, formerly known as Twitter, with a racial caption. Unfortunately, Kabisoso did not receive the justice she deserved for the case because the assigned detective told her, “Maybe you shouldn’t drink too much.”
The injustice Kabioso experienced made her realize that the system needed changes, and she chose to act on this realization. Representing the city of Hamilton under the Black Youth Action Plan campaign, Violence 360, Kabiososo participated in the campaign to help highlight the lived experiences of many Black youths across Ontario, how they navigate different systems after experiencing violence, and whether there are any systems in place to provide support.
As a sexual assault survivor, Kabiososo talked about the lack of support she received when she reported her rape to the
The campaign happened in four cities across the province. These cities were: Toronto, Hamilton, Windsor, and Ottawa. The campaign brought together various MPs and city officials to hear the perspectives of Black youths and figure out what the next steps are to ensure Black youths will no longer be traumatized by the different systems in place.
In 2018, Kabiososo established Sisters in Sync following the success of the Violence 360 campaign, where she continues to advocate for equitable access to justice and services for Black girls and women through three different pillars.
The first pillar consists of encouraging self-esteem. The pillar comes from the campaign when it came to light that a lot of Black girls and women were not disclosing experiences, whether it be: sexual assault, bullying, workplace harassment, or microaggressions, because they felt no one would believe them, leading to the self-esteem pillar coming into place. The pillar is about instilling a level of self-esteem that makes them feel as if no matter where they go, they will receive adequate support.
There is an emphasis on the need to share their story so more people can be aware of what is going on. This will empower people to continue to talk and have a community leader to go to for the services and support they need if the police do not listen to them.
The second pillar involves advo -
cacy, which involves shifting the way how the community and the system supports survivors. Through findings, Kabiososo noticed a lot of the work is being put on by girls and women, mainly Black girls, and women, to always be the ones to speak up on issues that affect them. This stems from allies and communities not being equipped to respond properly. That is why, through workshops, the focus is on centering the voices of Black girls and women while putting the responsibility on friends, relatives, and teachers to step in upon witnessing anything that negatively affects Black girls and women through the right training and knowledge.
The last pillar is about promoting a holistic life experience. A lot of the girls come from immigrant families and rarely get to experience positive things from their girlhood. Concerts and sleepovers are some things these girls miss out on, because of responsibilities at home. Through discussions and activities, this pillar gives Black girls the chance to experience their girlhood like how their white counterparts do. For the adults, Sisters in Sync recently established a program to help Black women move away from the hustle mentality. The program helps introduce them to different hobbies that allow Black women to exist outside of trauma and/or productivity.
During the pandemic, Kabisoso held various online workshops to provide girls and women with any support they needed. The workshops helped Kabiososo realize there was never something to highlight adolescent girls on their potential and achievements. Upon finding out there was an International Day of The Girl, the feed-
back they received, and realizing the lack of big-scale award celebrations for adolescent girls, The “You Go, Girl! Awards” was born. “Sometimes on your journey, you just need somebody to tell you to keep going,” said Kabisoso.
The “You Go, Girls Awards” is about letting girls know from a young age they are capable of doing great things, and don’t have to wait until they’re older to accomplish what they want to do in life.
Set to be held on October 11th, The International Day of the Girl, this year, the recipients, and winners will receive a $500 investment to help invest into a personal development opportunity, their business, or their education. They will also have access to events and opportunities throughout the year, a network of mentors who will provide support and knowledge and goodies provided by sponsors.
As a sexual assault survivor, Kabisoso encourages other survivors to speak and share their experience when they are comfortable doing so. Unfortunately, Black girls and women who are sexual assault survivors don’t receive representation at all, because their stories are never really captured.
Kabisoso first shared her story five years later and acknowledged that some may not share theirs until 10 to 20 years later. She shares there is power and healing when one shares their story, and how Sisters in Sync is here to listen and provide support.
“We cannot be forgotten, and we cannot be erased,” said Kabisoso.
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
This week, we’re thrilled to showcase the 2024 Recipients of the Black Tech Mentorship & Scholarship Program, a transformative initiative making waves in Ontario and South Carolina. We’ll also dive into The Other Stuff, a thought-provoking new film challenging the status quo, and shine a spotlight on the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, a powerful force driving change. Plus, don’t miss our feature on the incredibly talented singer, songwriter, and arranger, Keisha Martin, as she takes center stage with her soulful music. Enjoy!
Reason One Announces the 2024 Recipients of the Black Tech Mentorship & Scholarship Program in Ontario and South Carolina
Reason One, a full-service digital agency, proudly announced the recipients of its third annual Mentorship and Scholarship Program for Black students. This program, a testament to their commitment to diversity, aims to foster inclusivity in the Canadian and U.S. tech industry. By providing opportunities for Black communities and nurturing the next generation of diverse leaders, they are making a significant stride towards a more representative tech landscape. The program, which includes scholarships and a 1-year mentorship, has awarded three (3) scholarships worth $5,000 each to deserving South Carolina and Ontario students this year.
The Recipients of the 2024 Reason One Mentorship and Scholarship Program are: Jayques Nelson (Aged 20, Orangeburg, South Carolina) Edem Hoggar (Aged 18, Brampton, Ontario) Maya Tkeste (Aged 22, Brampton, Ontario.
The Reason One Mentorship and Scholarship Program application process, which ran from March 26th, 2024, to June 9th, 2024, saw a surge in applicants from across the Province of Ontario and the State of South Carolina. The Scholarship Committee meticulously reviewed the applications, selecting the top ten finalists for interviews.
The three (3) scholarship recipients were chosen based on a comprehensive evaluation of their financial needs, ca-
reer aspirations, commitment to: diversity in the tech industry, extra-curricular activities, and community service. The winners can use their scholarships to cover tuition, books, supplies, and living expenses. They will also benefit from a 1-year mentorship program with Reason One’s team, focusing on career planning, professional development, and mentorship to prepare them for a successful career in tech.
“With double the number of applicants this year over the years past and the increase in students interested in computer science and A.I., we reviewed numerous high-quality candidates from both the U.S. and Canada. We are excited to mentor and learn from Edem, Maya, and Jayques this year as we support them on their career journeys,” shares Ben Cash (Founder Partner & CEO of Reason One Inc.).
Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund
We are pleased to let you know that Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, congratulated the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) on launching its second call for proposals under the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. Through a $200-million endowment from the Government of Canada, the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund was established to create a sustainable source of funding for Black-led, Black-focused and Black-serving non-profit organizations and registered charities in Canada.
Building on the success of their first call for proposals, FFBC has launched the Black Ideas Grant, allocating a total of $9.5 million in funding, which includes $5.23 million in federal funding. By investing in Black-led and Black-serving organizations across the country, the federal government is addressing the long-standing barriers to social and economic inclusion that Black communities face.
Second call for proposals launched under the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund - Canada.ca
For more information on how to apply, please click here: Black Ideas Grant (B.I.G.) 2.0 2024 - Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC)
The Other Stuff is set to make its world premiere at the 2024 Reelworld Toronto director Bernard Gray’s The Other Stuff is the new thought-provoking film putting men’s mental health in the spotlight.
The Other Stuff, a powerful new short film by writer and director Bernard
Gray, will make its premiere at the 2024 Reelworld Film Festival from October 21st – November 3rd, 2024. This emotionally charged narrative brings the oftenoverlooked conversation of men’s mental health to the forefront, focusing on the generational trauma that men carry and the struggles they face in addressing it through therapy. Bernard’s own personal journey with mental health and the impact of therapy on Black men are at the heart of this gripping story.
In The Other Stuff, the central theme revolves around the trauma men hold and their intimate internal battles to confront it. The film offers an honest exploration of how Black men, especially those from environments of crime, straddle the paths of good and evil as they attempt to transition into healthier, more fulfilling lives.
The film follows Winston played by Dwain Murphy (Cross, Diggstown), a 30-year-old Black man, and Shannon played by Golden Madison (Cross, Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent) who embark on a journey of self-discovery through couples therapy before preparing to start a family. However, their journey takes an unexpected and intense turn when Winston’s suppressed childhood trauma surfaces. Under immense emotional strain, Winston confronts his uncle—the source of his abuse—in an effort to find healing and closure. The film highlights the critical role of therapy in helping men face their pain and work through the deep emotional scars that often remain buried.
“The Other Stuff sheds light on the generational trauma and emotional friction that men, especially Black men, face in their daily lives. As a reflection of my personal journey with therapy, the film explores how men are often conditioned to suppress their pain and avoid seeking help, leading to a damaging cycle of silence,” said Bernard Gray.
“As men, we are often conditioned to suppress our pain, to “be strong” in ways that ultimately do more harm than good. Through Winston’s story, I aim to challenge this narrative and highlight the power of confronting trauma and the healing that therapy can bring. This film was born out of a deep desire to explore these issues openly and authentically. It is not just a film about trauma—it’s about the emotional barriers we place around ourselves and the internal struggles we face when we try to break free of them. Now, more than ever, we need open conversations about mental health and connect with audiences on this
deeply human issue.”
The Other Stuff also stars: Nigel Shawn Williams, Michael McNally-Sylla, and Linda Carter. The film is directed, written, and executive produced by Bernard Gray alongside Anthony Q. Farrell. Lionnel Mends and Anthony Aranega who are also producers on the project.
Singer, Songwriter, and Arranger Keisha Martin
Acclaimed singer, songwriter, and arranger Keisha Martin is under consideration for a GRAMMY® nomination in two prestigious categories: Best Dance/Electronic Recording and Best Music Video for her latest single, “This Love.” written and produced by Donovan Sebastian Sr., (aka RiddimDaddy) showcases Keisha’s exceptional ability to seamlessly blend genres, including Amapiano and Afrobeat.
With over two decades of experience in the music industry, Keisha, affectionately known as “The Queen of Jamrock Soul,” has made a significant mark on the global music scene. Her powerful, soulful voice and versatile artistry have earned her collaborations and shared stages with some of the most iconic figures in music.
Currently touring with Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads, Keisha has also opened for legendary acts such as Black Uhuru and performed alongside renowned artists like: Third World, Monty Alexander, Marcia Griffiths, Melissa Morgan, and The Skatalites. Her dynamic performances resonate with audiences, showcasing her deeprooted connection to reggae, soul, and electronic music.
In addition to her thriving musical career, Keisha is a sought-after vocal coach, dedicated to helping aspiring artists hone their craft. She is also a highly regarded in-studio backing vocalist, known for her precision and ability to enhance the performances of other artists.
Keisha’s contributions to the music industry have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Lawman Lynch Foundation Music for Life Award and the Nina Simone Artistic Excellence in Music Entertainment Award at the 2024 Young Gifted and Black Entrepreneurial Awards.
As a proud member of the Recording Academy, Keisha actively serves on the 2024-2025 New York Chapter GRAMMY® Advocacy Committee, where she champions the rights of artists. Her advocacy work includes participation in initiatives like the NO FAKES Act and GRAMMY® Advocacy Day, highlighting her commitment to the music community.
The point is you are probably not eating enough fiber; how to decrease risk of large bowel hernias
W. GIFFORDJONES MD
DIANA GIFFORD-JONES
TC HEALTH COLUMNIST
Mention a hernia to anyone and they immediately think of a bulge in the lower abdomen, or groin. Hernias also occur in the large bowel. If constipation, or infection results, the individual will experience worsening pain, nausea, and sometimes the urgent need for a major operation. The good news is that a little prevention will decrease the risk of large bowel hernias. What’s even better news? The same preventative action will also reduce the risk of diabetes and cancer, as well as: cardiovascular, infectious, and respiratory diseases, and this is just the beginning.
It might sound like fake news if we were to add that studies show this same simple daily remedy is also proven to increase lifespan! Let’s not stop. It has been shown to improve the quality of life during those added years. When all this risk of disease is decreased, there is another important benefit we desperately need, and that is a substantial reduction in societal health-care costs.
So, what is this health-promoting preventive remedy? It is nothing new. In fact, it has been repeated in this column many times over many years. The U.S. National Library of Medicine has numerous medical journals showcasing the evidence. Here is the answer: it is higher amounts of daily dietary fiber than most people are regularly getting.
Some research suggests we should aim to eat 50 grams of fiber a day. Other studies find positive results with half that amount, but the reality is, most people are eating much less, only a small fraction of the amount they should be.
If you are not getting enough fiber, there are warning signs, but people are not
making the connection. Constipation and hemorrhoids are not random problems. They are symptoms of an underlying problem, which could be insufficient fiber to help keep stools soft and moving with ease. Other signs could be irritable bowel syndrome and weight gain.
Doctors refer to small pouches in the colon as diverticulosis. These pockets gradually push out through muscle layers of the colon. Most people have no idea if they have this problem because they do not experience major symptoms.
If hernias become infected, the diagnosis changes from diverticulosis to diverticulitis. This can result in bleeding, severe abdominal pain, and sometimes the formation of an abscess. Antibiotics might help, or the problem may require surgery.
We know that age and genetics can be factors in the development of small hernias, but the main culprit is chronic constipation, a major North American problem.
Deficient fiber intake is a factor. A Harvard University study followed 50,019 women between the ages 43 to 70 for 24
years. Compared with women who ate the least fiber (13 grams), those who consumed the most (27 grams) were 14 percent less likely to develop diverticulitis requiring antibiotics, or hospital care. Other studies have shown similar results for men.
The message is to eat more whole grains and fruit, like apples, raspberries, and prunes. Tomatoes are high in fiber. So are vegetables like celery, potatoes with the skin on, black beans and green peas, to name a few. Keeping your waste production line fueled with fiber helps keep your intestinal bacteria healthy too, and this decreases the risk of inflammation.
Readers often write asking, what is the right amount? How much fiber should we eat? That’s a question medical authorities are considering afresh. Should the daily recommended dietary intake be moved from the current 25 to 30 grams a day upward to 50 grams? That’s a lot of baked beans!
The point is, you are probably not eating enough fiber.
Ardenne High secures 13th hold on the JCDC Marcus Garvey Award for the Performing Arts
BY RUSHANE FERRON
TORONTO CARIBBEAN REPORTER
Ardenne High School has been named the 2024 winner of the JCDC Marcus Garvey Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts.
This marks the Kingston-based institution’s thirteenth time receiving the prestigious award, presented by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) to recognize the outstanding achievement in the National Festival of the Performing Arts competitions held earlier this year.
In addition to claiming the top honour, Ardenne High solidified its reputation as a leading force in the performing arts, earning twelve awards across the speech, drama, and music categories.
Commenting on the school’s success at the awards ceremony, held at the Little Theatre in St. Andrew, Gracia Thompson, co-
curricular coordinator, expressed pride in Ardenne’s ongoing participation in the National Festival of the Arts. She highlighted the unique opportunity the festival provides for students, noting that such an event is rare in many other countries.
“We are proud but humbled. The students have worked extremely hard, and we know that we were up against some great competition. What the JCDC does in unearthing and developing the creative talent of the Jamaican people is a remarkable thing and something that we are proud to participate in. In a sense we are a product of that mission,” said Thompson.
She added that even the mere act of participating in the various competitions gives students a boost and helps to build Ardenne’s reputation and standing as a performing arts high school. “Winning was the icing on the cake for us all – teachers and students
alike.”
“The students, based on the kind of work they must put in with rehearsals starting almost simultaneously with the start of the school year in September, and stretching all the way to the end of the festival season in May, they feel a great sense of reward from earning this title year after year. It comes down to dedication,’ said Thompson.
Executive Director of the JCDC Lenford Salmon highlighted the importance of the work of the Commission noting the transformative role the arts play in the development of students.
“The arts as a development of human capital are unquestionable. I have seen it at work. I see students who show little, or no interest in school, are convinced to get involved with the arts, and are literally transformed. The teachers would encourage them to get involved in the performing arts clubs and
societies on campus, with a condition that in order to be involved they must attend classes. All of a sudden that student does not miss a day of school. I have seen it transform children in amazing ways,” said Salmon. The JCDC Marcus Garvey Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts was introduced in 1994 and is presented to the school or group that accumulates the most points based on their performance at the national finals of the annual Festival of the Performing Arts. The event also recognizes the exceptional work of teachers and tutors who prepare participants for the festival. Additionally, the JCDC announced that entries for all 2025 competitions will open on Monday, November 4th, 2024, and close on Friday, December 13th, 2024, inviting schools and community groups to participate.
Celebrating Miss Lou: A life of poetry, music and love
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
It was an inspirational day that was dedicated to honouring the legacy, influence, and impact of one of Jamaica’s greatest cultural icons, Louise Bennett-Coverley, aka Miss Lou. She was described as a beloved figure in Jamaica culture, celebrated for her pioneering work in preserving and promoting Jamaica Patois and folklore. Her legacy continues to influence generations, making her a true queen of Jamaica culture.
The kickoff event of the day was a workshop titled, “Is That You, Miss Lou?” which was held in the Miss Lou Learning Center. It was described as one where participants will explore how Miss Lou transformed everyday Jamaican experiences
into captivating poetry filled with: humour, wisdom, and warmth. This session is an opportunity to engage in spoken word, music, and drama, inspired by Miss Lou’s unique storytelling style.
The workshop was conducted by educator Marsha Taylor and Jamaican-Canadian guitarist Maurice Gordon, leader of the band Pimento Grove.
The press release issued in August 2024 by the Harbourfront Centre shares, “Join us for an unforgettable celebration of the legendary Miss Lou, the Queen of Jamaican Culture on September 7th, 2024, at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto. The event titled ‘Celebrating Miss Lou: A Life of Poetry, Music, and Love,’ will honor the cultural icon through a series of engaging activities, including: activities, a workshop, a tour, and a vibrant evening show.”
There were two tours conducted at 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm after the initial workshop. Marsha Laylor conducted the tours of the Miss Lou Education and Learning Centre. The tour provided insights into the life and work of Miss Lou, highlighting her efforts in preserving and promoting Jamaican patois and folklore.
The evening concluded with an: inspiring, empowering, and entertaining performance by Pimento Grove. They are dedicated to performing and preserving the rich folk rhythms and melodies of Jamaican Mento and other Caribbean genres. Their mission is to honour the great contributions of Caribbean icons like Miss Lou and Harry Belafonte, and they aim to make this celebration an annual event in Toronto and beyond.
This show was a rich tapestry of: music, poetry, and storytelling, all inspired by Miss Lou’s incredible contributions to Jamaican culture. It was a night filled with laughter, learning, and love, as they honoured the woman who became a cultural icon both in Canada and around the world.
It was followed by a speech by Pamella Appelt who together with Miss Lou’s son, Fabian Coverley are co-executors of the Estate of Louise Coverley. She spoke about the role that Miss Lou played as an outstanding cultural significance of this Jamaican icon on her 105th birthday, which was being celebrated in many countries such as: Jamaica, Canada, and the USA. She shared details that led to the develop -
ment of Miss Lou’s Room, parties involved and the process. It was at Miss Lou’s funeral that it was mentioned that the government would recognize her cultural importance in a big way.
Fabian Coverley spoke about the legacy of his mom and shared interesting facts about her work. He states, “My mother’s works, still lives on, and is talked and lived daily by the local and international diaspora. Louise Simone Coverley is the renowned poet, actress, first social commenter, comedian, folklorist, singer, writer, and a beloved Jamaican, who tarried over 50 years working the Jamaican language, referred to as Patois. Without the technology of today-computers and social media, she made significant contributions to Jamaica’s: theater, music, literature, and culture. She impacted the population of all genres, local and international.”
The highlight of the evening after the Pimento Grove’s performance was the cutting of the cake specially designed by Chef Noel Cunningham. It was emblazoned with a picture of the iconic Miss Lou and engraved with “Happy 105th Birthday.”
PAUL JUNOR
There is always more than meets the eye - Cormega is not your average artist
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Once again, Lord Fury and the Supreme Genes Team are bringing Hip-Hop royalty to Canada, and as a community paper, we proudly stand with them. This isn’t just about concerts it is about restoring the essence of Hip-Hop. Supreme Genes is taking us back to a time when hip hop was the voice of the voiceless, speaking truth to the realities of Africans in the diaspora. They are reviving the culture, the lyricism, and the unapologetic message that Hip Hop was built on. It’s more than music; it’s a movement
They are back with another epic night of real Hip-Hop in Toronto, and this one’s going to be LEGENDARY! Supreme
Pirate live at the Phoenix Concert Theatre on Sunday, October 13th, 2024. This show is part of the venue’s final concert series, The Final Spin, marking the end of 33 1/3 years of incredible music history. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Date: Sunday, October 13th, 2024
Doors Open: 8:00 PM
Location: Phoenix Concert Theatre | 410 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON Lineup:
• Cormega – Legendary MC known for his work with The Firm and a standout solo career
• Group Home – Iconic duo delivering the classics from their timeless album, Livin’ Proof
• Knowledge the Pirate – Gritty lyricist with stories straight from the streets
With Asun Eastwood opening the night, Lord Fury hosting, and music by DJ Mercilless, this event is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
Hip-Hop mogul Marley Marl dubbed Cormega “The original gangsta rapper from Queensbridge,’’ for his stark-
ly lyrical accounts of life in Queens, NY’s Queensbridge Houses, the largest housing project on Earth. Cormega, a formidable figure in the Hip-Hop landscape, has transcended his artistic legacy to become a powerful example of hope and positive change. His involvement with The Forgiveness Project in Canada exemplifies his dedication to uplifting communities and empowering individuals. By offering programs that prioritize young men in custody, Cormega is not only providing essential skills, but also fostering a culture of forgiveness and resilience. His personal visits to correctional facilities underscore his commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who often feel marginalized and overlooked. Through his actions, Cormega has proven that Hip-Hop can be more than just music; it can be a catalyst for transformation and a force for good.
I had a chance to speak with him about the work he is doing, and he openly shared his thoughts with me. “When I visit these men in prison, I speak with them about life; I motivate them. Stumbling isn’t falling! I refer to the words of
Malcom X, often. He was a man who experienced the harshness of prison and look at the man he turned out to be.”
“When I went to jail, I didn’t have my high school diploma or college degree. When I came out, I had a diploma and college credits. This is something that I help the inmates know is possible for them.”
“I have an affinity and respect for Toronto, and after this concert, I want people in Toronto to leave feeling that they got their money’s worth.”
“How is it that people don’t know more about the work that you are doing here in Canada,” I asked.
“I do things for God, and my inner God. It is balancing the scales of life. I like to do my deeds in silence,” Cormega replied. “The love and respect that I get from the inmates and their families is priceless.”
Toronto, you still have a couple days to be part of Hip Hop history here in Toronto. Don’t wait – secure your spot at this iconic concert before it sells out. Tickets are moving fast, and this might be your last chance to catch these legendary artists live in Toronto.
American individualism and Canadian cooperative thought; Alternatives offered to free people
steven@carib101.com TC COLUMNIST
Canadians expressing their trust and love for the cousins down south. We have historically fought one another, distrusted
one another, yet become the greatest of allies as well. A huge border separates each nation from the other, yet millions cross this border freely each day. Our economies are interwoven, and we walk in space together as a unit of explorers with lapel flags identifying us from the other.
What makes Canadians and Americans different? Two words and their meaning makes the case clearly. Family and Cooperation: A group of related things living together - descendants of a common ancestor working together.
“Family” holds a special place of reverence and historical significance socio-politically to both Canadians and Americans. That similarity is clear. I believe the difference in how we view family, and what family means to us. American individualism holds a pivotal historic place within the American social fabric. This flows into how they view and live their family experience. Family is a part of the greater national experience, but individualism maintains a separation from the greater public’s expectations. Individuals and their families are sepa-
rate from the greater whole. Importance to the needs, expectations, myths of the individual run supreme and above the national needs and expectations. Nationalism in America is characteristically centered on independence and self-reliance. Canadian expressions of “family” are similar, but the lived concept of family is far more holistic in its approach. Not only are family members part of the family unit, but Canadians view others in Canada as family as well. Our acceptance of the social compact unites Canadians and presses our expression to help the other. Canadian social thought evolved to accept and place social policy decisions such as our universal health care and the protection of the citizen from undue: financial, mental, and physical challenges.
America’s acceptance of the supremacy of capital and individualism places its citizens in harm’s way should that citizen face such challenges as illness (no insurance), or loss of job (loss of home). Canadian social attitudes place cooperation among our citizens as the primary method of achievement as a society and family.
Americans’ reverence of competition places citizens and American institutions against one another. Darwinian attitudes place capital and individualism into every aspect of American life from the moment an American is born in a hospital to the day they pass away. Capital, wealth, personal achievement reaches into every American’s lived experience as though it were a religion. Not so in Canada. Perhaps it is Canadians feeling of inferiority living beside the greatest democratic nation on earth, or because we understand America’s importance to Canada’s welfare and well-being be it: financial, economic, or our national defense. The proverbial little cousin. That feeling unites Canadians, making us far more empathetic to our neighbors and the world. This empathy enters our political and social realities, as to how we see ourselves. Our inferiority makes us more cooperative, and socially responsible.
American individualism and Canadian cooperative thought. Alternatives offered to free people. Choose and choose well.
WAYNE SAMUELS
Inspiring others to be the greatest versions of themselves
He is a man of quiet power, someone who has achieved remarkable success, yet remains out of the spotlight. In an industry notorious for breaking spirits and exploiting talent, he has thrived, not through flash, or self-promotion, but through strategic thinking and a deep commitment to service. His business acumen has allowed him to navigate the music industry’s ruthless waters with precision, building relationships and opportunities where others might falter. Rather than seeking fame for himself, he uses his position to uplift and empower creatives, offering guidance, resources, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. His impact is felt deeply by those he helps, even if the wider world has yet to know his name.
He has revolutionized the music industry by creating an ecosystem that empowers artists, fosters creativity, and champions diversity. His ecosystem comprises three key entities: The HOOK & Company, Sustainable Creative Living, and The HOOK Sync Group. Together, these entities form a unified hub that provides comprehensive support, training, education, and sync opportunities for artists and amplifies underrepresented voices in the industry.
By empowering artists through innovative e-commerce platforms, toptier training, and sync opportunities, his team fosters a collaborative and innovative environment. The seamless integration of their entities ensures a continual pipeline of talent, knowledge, and business practices, propelling artists to new heights and sustaining their growth in a dynamic musical landscape. One of his missions At The Hook & Company, is to revolutionize the music industry by creating an ecosystem that: empowers artists, fosters creativity, and champions diversity.
Our Classic Man specializes in branding and identity management,
career development, financial and legal management. He manages and works with Luther Brown (Creative Director & Choreographer) - SYTYCD (Emmy Nominated), who has worked with Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lopez, Daddy Yankee, and Janet Jackson.
He has also work alongside Mark Samuels - (Choreographer & Music/Video Editor), who had done work on projects for: Netflix - The Grand Army, Julie & The Phantoms, Rosalia, Bad Bunny, Buju Banton, CNCO, The Magicians, and Disney’s - The Descendants.
He has contributed his expertise in supporting Kojo ‘Tuch’ Mayne (Choreographer & Movement Coach), who has worked on projects with: RaaHiim, Dylan Sinclair, CBC -The Tall Boyz, Shawn Desman.
One of his latest projects was his work with Advance at the 2023 Juno Awards. Holding the institutions in the music industry accountable, Advance solidifies black representation in all facets of the Canadian music business. With involvement from Advance and the JUNO Rap Music Advisory Committee, our Classic Man assisted in shining a light on a genre that has given so much to the world. There are countless contributors to the culture that deserve recognition; he helped bring Hip-Hop to Edmonton with style, grace, and unity.
He is empowering creatives with state-of-the-art e-commerce platforms, top-tier training, and sync opportunities enabling artists to thrive and sustain their growth in the everchanging landscape of the music industry. I would like to introduce to you our Classic Man, Wayne Samuels
Born and raised in Jane and Finch Wayne will tell you that it was a simple life until he got to high school.
“When I got to high school, things shifted a little. I got into some bad company. I was living that gang life;
you know robbing people and stealing. I was causing a lot of trouble. My parents never knew, and if they knew, they did not say.”
“Finally, of course, I got caught and had to go to court. My sentence was community service, and during this time I had a probation officer. When my probation officer looked at my school transcript, she was like, ‘You have some decent grades here. It looks like you are a smart young man.’ She helped me identify what I needed to do, which involved working in the music industry, and that is what made me apply to three colleges: Humber, George Brown, and Seneca. Seneca is the one I got accepted into.”
“I wrote the entry exam and passed with the exception of English. I was upset when they said that I had to take a Development English Course. I was always one English course behind, because I wrote how you spoke. When you are in college, you can’t write how you speak, especially when your speech is street. I ended up graduating with honours. My parents had urged me to take computer courses. I took a course called Business Computer Systems. That was a three-year course that ended with me on the Dean’s List.”
“It took me two years to find a job in my field. Nothing. Everyone wanted experience, but I was fresh out of college. At a family barbecue, I ended up linking up with a cousin, and he was leaving his position. He called his supervisor and told him to interview me for the position. I ended up working at Livingston International for 13 years.”
During that time, my parents separated, and my mom moved back to Jamaica. It was a tough moment for me. My mom left, and I had all these questions. I did not get answers to those questions until two years after they separated. ‘My uncle explained it to me, “You know them as mom and
dad, but they were two separate people before. They did not work out, and that is okay.’ When you are going through a separation, you don’t see your parents as individuals, you see them as mom and dad. My uncle showed me this, and that was when I got my answer as to why it happened. I found my peace in that.”
His first taste of the music industry was when he used to DJ. “Whenever my uncle would play at family functions, I would stay the whole night listening to him play. He would let me play the slow jams at the end of the night. That was my foot in the door.”
“Then came Do Dat. Luther called me and said, ‘You took business, what if we opened up a Hip-Hop Dance Agency. We knew of other dance agencies, but there was nothing for Hip Hop and R&B.’ The first two years were recruiting and training, and three years later. Michee Mee’s Cover Girl was the first time we had our dancers in a music video. Once we did that video, everyone wanted to know who we were. We started to do showcases (Windsor Sports Weekend). Cameron and Mase “Horse & Carriage” was our first time having our dancers in an American Hip Hop video.”
“I have always been in a position to support other people’s success. I hope that people will look at the work that I have done and be inspired by it. I hope my story and work can inspire them to be the greatest versions of themselves.”
Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News
Photo Credit: Sanj P Photography
There comes a time when hard-working taxpayers have to say, “Enough is enough.”
Many factors determine who gets what care when fighting illness. It makes a difference where you live, what kind of insurance you have, and what health problem you face. The bottom line is that there are only so many healthcare dollars to spend, and people are making decisions on our behalf about where the money goes. It’s time to ask if we have the balance right.
Trade-offs are inevitable. Do we place a priority on reducing wait times for essential surgical treatments? Do we ensure everyone has access to a family doctor? Do we ramp up more support for drug use rehabilitation? These are tough ques-
tions with no easy answers.
When push comes to shove for limited resources, there should be urgency in putting an end to wasted money. We know good people are dying from drug problems, and they need care, but there are extremely nefarious people profiting from pushing illegal drugs, and it is these criminals who have us spending tens of millions on safe-use and treatment centres.
It is another problem that otherwise good people make terrible, irresponsible decisions to misuse medications, or buy drugs on the street. Let’s add in the doctors who readily prescribe powerful, addictive painkillers to patients without a thought for how to get them off the drugs or manage longer term use for chronic conditions. There has been enough experimentation in fighting illegal drug use and the evidence is piling up that current approaches are not working. There does come a time when millions of hardworking taxpayers have to say, “Enough is enough.” Law enforcement needs to
continue to go after the criminals and put them away, and we must ask ourselves what the acceptable allocation to money is to keep saving irresponsible people, often time and time again, from their follies. What are the trade-offs we are willing to make?
In assessments of the “war on drugs,” it is common to find calls to abandon punitive policies and adopt approaches grounded on harm reduction and human rights. When efforts to uphold the highest standards of human decency are not working, we need to regroup.
Particularly for those who have seen loved ones waiting for delayed cancer operations and other procedures, watching tens of millions spent on substance abuse centres is a bitter reality. It’s tragic for people who develop cancer through no fault of their own and then need to wait for treatment. It’s a measure of society’s priorities when drug users can walk freely into treatment, while cancer patients and their families have no option but to: queue for surgical operations, che -
motherapy, and other needed treatments. What do we do about the tragic overdoses of teenagers making bad decisions in using dangerous drugs? What about those falling into circumstances where addiction to illegal drugs leads to other crimes?
We repeat, there are no easy answers, but we do need to observe where the costs of societal problems are spiraling out of control and make changes to how we spend our money. Putting the price of cancer care alongside that of illicit drug programs might be one way to sharpen the issues.
What do you think about this matter? Should we be good Samaritans at all costs, or should we lean into tougher punishments. Should we pay for more drug treatment? Or should we advance funding for cancer care? In your opinion, what is the right way to frame a discussion on the choices we must make? We’d like to hear from you, and we’ll publish your views in a future column.
sydnee@carib101.com
VARIETY CORNER
Don’t dish it if you can’t take it; A look at Cardi B and Offset’s relationship
countless cheating scandals. The first allegation took place in December 2017 when a video surfaced of what appeared to be Offset in a hotel room with another woman who was nude. The Migos rapper claimed his iCloud got hacked, and days later, Celina Powell claimed she was pregnant with Offset’s baby - which turned out to be a lie. Both rappers denied this allegation.
The golden rule might seem simple, but it has a powerful meaning. How we would like to be treated is what we need to project towards others. While some can comprehend this, the easy way, there are others who will have to learn the hard way.
It was early 2017 when rappers Cardi B and Offset started their relationship. The estranged pair secretly tied the knot in September of that year and welcomed three children; Kulture Kiari Cephus, Wave Set Cephus and a baby girl whose name has yet to be revealed.
steven@carib101.com
INSIGHT TO SOCIETY SYDNEE WALCOTT
need to make sense of their gut instincts and reactions and try to understand why they do what they do.
Understanding what aggression and defensive postures do will help. Know-
Throughout 2018, the pair would continue to encounter more cheating scandals, leading to the pair splitting in December 2018. Offset’s alleged mistress in this situation, Summer Bunni, issued an apology, saying she was ashamed of what she had done. Offset takes to social media to express his emotions and show remorse for his wrongs. Later that month, the Migos rapper crashed Cardi B’s headlining set at Rolling Loud to ask for her back with a floral arrangement. The gesture was not a wellreceived one, ending with the Migos rapper and floral arrangement being removed from the stage.
Despite the failed attempt, the two reconciled the following month, with Offset adhering to a “no groupies” rule.
2019 seemed to be a good year for the pair as they showered each other with love and the release of Offset’s Grammynominated song Clout featuring Cardi B.
In September 2020, there seemed to be trouble in paradise again as Cardi B filed for divorce from Offset after three years of marriage. Days after announcing their split, Cardi B announced the two were no longer on the same wavelength.
The following month, Offset joined in to celebrate Cardi B’s 28th birthday, where the two shared a kiss and danced intimately. A few days later, Cardi B took to Instagram Live to announce the two reunited. The divorce was called off the following month.
Things were good for a while until more cheating rumours came to light in 2023, with rapper Blueface accusing his ex-girlfriend Chrisean Rock of cheating on him with Offset. Both Rock and Offset denied these rumours. Cardi B posted cryptic stories on Instagram before eventually confirming she has been single for a while.
Fans speculated the two were back together as they rang in 2024 togeth-
Nations at war need to set aside their: Mistrust, greed, hatred, and jealousy
ing that these events are not simply acts of individuals, but something coming from the very essence of their: cultural, political, and religious roots. Sure, killing innocents is wrong, but the other side did so often, so justification is placed. A doctrine of justification has been set ever since Israel was born.
Remember Palestine, as part of the British Empire, was shared by all involved, often in a peaceful environment. Ideas of theft and expropriation of lands and property became the basis for future: mistrust, jealousy, and hate towards the Israeli. Well-founded if you think about it. Someone takes your home away and drives you off. You will be upset right? From that moment onward Israel’s people became surrounded by various nations both jealous and angered because the wealthiest nations in the world supported Israel, but not them. Israel has been in defensive mode ever since with a well-trained and armed national force ready at a drop of the dime to go into action.
Palestinians have been middlemen laying between their foe and their allies and other superpowers ready to inflict chaos in Israel and their allies lands whenever possible. Both sides see their cause to be just, moral, and supported by their
Deity. Each side knows what is right and wrong. Both sides see peace, unity of their people and community as a prize worth fighting for, and the adage remains “The ends justify the means.” So mini invasions happen, rockets fly and strike civilian targets, snipers shoot children, nations allow thousands to die unnecessarily and pagers explode killing many innocents.
Amoral behavior is widespread among all combatants and every tool to strike at the other is used. Reporters are killed, hospitals, schools, places of worship bombed, people standing in a line for food machine gunned. Immorality is a powerful byproduct of conflict.
Being virtuous is left to victims and bystanders outside of the conflict. Citizens on both sides attempt to bring about peace only to be ignored, arrested and often killed by their own side. The dichotomy of being right, or wrong is not considered as the singular goal of winning the conflict lingers. The ultimate choice between doing right, or wrong lay within all their hands, and it is their responsibility to make ethical decisions that align with their values and principals.
All those involved be they: Israeli, Palestinian, Arab, Egyptian, Saudi, Lebanese, Iranian or the super powers must
er. The speculations continued until Cardi B filed for divorce for a second time in late July of this year. The next day, Cardi B announced she was pregnant with their third child.
A few weeks after welcoming their third child, the two went back and forth on Instagram with Offset accusing Cardi B of cheating on him while she was pregnant with their third child. Fans speculated she confirmed Offset’s accusation when she posted the following tweet on X, formerly Twitter: “AND DID!!!!!!”
Regarding the most recent situation, fans feel as if Offset got what was coming to him. Throughout their relationship, Offset continued to inflict pain on Cardi B by continuously cheating on her. Although two wrongs do not make a right, if Cardi B did cheat, Offset is receiving what he has dished out to Cardi B throughout their relationship.
I hope people take this situation as a wake-up call and not dish out what they cannot take.
make a choice that will truly challenge them to the core. They need to set aside their: mistrust, greed, hatred and jealousy and be what they always claim themselves to be: peace loving, democratic, religious, moral, and civilized nations and special interest groups. Never has there been a time when a group of people can achieve the unachievable. To be selfless, forgiving, tolerant and charitable to others, even those they oppose. Socrates said “The greatest way to live with honour in this world is to be what we pretend and claim to be.” We all know that hypocrisy is prejudice with a halo. Each group player’s cause is seen to be the right one.
“Everyone thinks about changing the world, but no one seems to think about changing themselves.” Yes, this was said by a great writer and thinker, Leo Tolstoy. A simple equation right? Cannot change the other guy, their goals and expectations, so change yours. Be true to yourself. If you’re a democratic minded person, who supports the rights of individuals to their: life, home, land and ultimately happiness, be that person. Set aside all anger, historic and practical hate. After all, only those who build and create are close to God and Divine Mercy.
Vision and Voice: A modern day look at the philosophy and opinions of Marcus Garvey - Part VI
“To be learned in all that is worthwhile knowing. Not to be crammed with the subject matter of the book, or the philosophy of the classroom, but to store away in your head such facts as you need for the daily application of life, so that you may better understand your fellow man, and interpret your relationship to your Creator.”
The Honourable Marcus Mosiah Garvey
Education is not confined by walls. or limited to textbooks. It is not something we seek just to pass exams, secure degrees, or impress the world. It surrounds us, touches everything we do, and is the key to our liberation.
For us, as people of African descent, education must be seen as more than institutional learning. We must reclaim the African tradition of
learning in community, where knowledge is passed from generation to generation, where wisdom flows through our: stories, music, and art.
Pan-Africanism teaches us that education is a collective journey, an act of unity that binds us together. We are not just learning for personal success, but for the upliftment of our people. Education, in its truest form, is a tool of empowerment, of resistance against colonial oppression, and of dismantling the systems that seek to erase our stories.
“You can be educated in soul, vision and feeling, as well as in mind. To see your enemy and know him is a part of the complete education of man; to spiritually regulate one’s self is another form of the higher education that fits man for a nobler place in life, and still, to approach your brother by the feeling of your own humanity, is an education that softens the ills of the world and makes us kind indeed.”
You know what I would love to experience; a classroom, but instead of traditional desks and chairs, there are discussions happening, debates on Pan-African philosophy, African history, and global movements. We must start imagining education out-
side of the classroom. What we learn in these spaces is vital, but it cannot end here. Every day is an opportunity to: grow, question, and challenge. We must look at the world through the lens of our ancestors’ struggles and triumphs. We must be intentional about what we absorb because our education is not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.
Our Afrikan history classes should be showing our young people archival footage of African liberation movements, showing leaders like: Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba, Thomas Sankara, and Miriam Makeba. This is the education Pan-Africanism calls for — an education that liberates minds, that dismantles the chains of colonialism, which builds self-awareness and pride in our history, our languages, and our cultures.
In this digital age, education is everywhere. Every conversation, every book, every article, every experience offers a chance to evolve. When we open our minds to the vastness of knowledge that is ours for the taking, we unlock the keys to transformation.
“Many men were educated outside the school room. It is something you let out, not completely take
in. You are part of it, for it is natural; it is dormant simply because you will not develop it, but God creates every man with it knowingly, or unknowingly to him who possesses it, that’s the difference. Develop yours and you become as great and full of knowledge as the other fellow without even entering the classroom.”
Education must be a daily practice, a commitment to lifelong learning. It is in the way we think critically about the world, in the way we engage with others, in how we honour our history, and how we envision our future. It is about: building solutions, creating opportunities, and taking responsibility for our collective destiny.
Education is liberation. It is freedom of thought. It is empowerment of the spirit. It is, and must always be, the foundation upon which we stand as we: rebuild, reconnect, and rise. Let us never forget: in every moment, we are students, and in every moment, we are the teachers of our own destiny.
Reclaim. Empower. Educate For the Future of Pan-Africanism!
Cooking
croptober cannabis cuisine with The Heightened Chef
some dried cannabis flowers. Cured can nabis is ideal, but not completely necessary. Of note here is that not only bud can be used to make infused products. Since you have probably just finished trimming your plants after harvest, what would end up as waste can be reclaimed in this process. Any tiny buds and “sugar leaf” (small leaves close to the buds covered in THC crystals) are not worth smoking, but valuable for infusing. Obviously, they will not produce a result as tasty, or potent as using actual buds, but still highly effective.
The amount of cannabis to use for your home infusion is up to you. Without lab testing, it is impossible to know the exact potency of your infusion, but a simple calculation can at least give you a ballpark figure. Once you have determined the THC percentage of the strain you are using (which is easy to look up), you can use this info to calculate the strength of what you are making. Every percent is equal to 1 mg of THC per 1g of dried flower. So, if you used 3g of flower that had a THC content of 20%, your infusion would end up with approximately 60mg of THC.
Your next choice is what type of medium you will be using to infuse with your cannabis. THC molecules will bond to any type of fat molecule. Butters and oils are your best option. Coconut oil has the highest fat content of all oils and is versatile enough for baking and cooking. Keeping track of how much oil, or butter you are using is necessary to derive a dosage per serving. Once you have figured out the size and number of servings you want, the THC is divided evenly amongst
them. Please be aware that the most THC you will infuse using the simple methods will be about 60-70% of the original amount, so there will be some drop off in potency.
The following step is the most critical in this process; in order to give your infusion the affects you wish it to have, your cannabis must have its THC heat activated. This process is called decarboxylation or “decarb” for short. The best way to do this is by putting all the cannabis you wish to use on a flat tray in an oven at 110 degrees C (230 degrees F) for 20-30 mins. Be careful because overdoing this step can destroy all the THC in your cannabis!
Now that your cannabis is ready to infuse your chosen medium, you will create a small pouch using cheesecloth. Place your lightly broken up cannabis inside and tie it off tightly. Place your oil, or butter into a pot with twice the amount of water and bring it to low to medium simmer. Place your cannabis pouch into the liquid and allow it simmer for 3-4 hours.
Once complete, remove the pot from the heat and place it in the fridge to cool after taking out the cannabis pouch. Once cool, your medium will have hardened and separated from the water. Simply scrape any residue from the underside and your homemade infusion is ready to use! Remember your dosages and consume responsibly!
Potato and Leek Soup
Ingredients
• 1 cup butter
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups heavy cream, or to taste
Preparation
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks and season to taste with salt and pepper; cook and stir until leeks are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir cornstarch into broth; pour broth into pot. Add potatoes and bring to a boil. Stir in cream; reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Check seasoning before serving.
Garnish with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and a small cannabis infused butter cube if you’d like to take this dish to the next level!
As well as being tasty and fragrant, this Italian bread is easy to prepare. A pure delight, you’ll see!
INGREDIENTS
Servings: 12
• 4 cups bread flour
• 1 sachet instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• 400 millilitres warm water
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt (optional)
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary* or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 12 black olives, cut lengthwise
*Only use the small leaves.
Rosemary focaccia
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour the flour into a large bowl and add the yeast. Mix well with a whisk. Add the table salt and mix again.
2. Make a well in the centre of the flour. Pour in the 400 millilitres water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until a moist, sticky dough forms. Dust a work surface with flour and pour on the mixture. Knead for 5 to 10 minutes until the dough is soft and slightly less sticky. Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with a cloth and let it rest for an hour (it should double in size).
3. Oil an ovenproof dish (approx. 9 x 13 inches) and place the dough inside. Spread the dough so it reaches all four corners of the dish. Cover with a cloth and let rest for 45 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350 F (convection mode if possible). Using your fingers, make small dimples in the dough. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon water and coarse salt. Moisten the dough with this mixture. Sprinkle the rosemary over the top and press the olives into the dimples.
5. Bake for 40 minutes. While the bread is still warm, drizzle with the remaining oil.
5 trivia questions about the world of bread
Did you know that October 16 is World Bread Day? This versatile food is part of most people’s daily diet and has every reason to be celebrated! Test your bread knowledge by answering these questions:
1. Which of these ingredients is not part of a basic bread recipe?
a) Yeast
b) Salt
c) Eggs
d) Water
2. Which type of flour is most often used in baking?
a) Soy flour
b) Corn flour
c) Rice flour
d) Wheat flour
3. Which of these is not a variety of bread?
a) Fougasse
b) Rosette
c) Pita
d) Ciabatta
4. What was the bread called that served as a plate for the wealthy in the Middle Ages?
a) A trencher
b) A heel
c) A wafer
d) A crumb
5. What have breadcrumbs been used for other than food?
a) Upholster furniture
b) Erase pencil lead
c) Paint porous surfaces
d) Insulate buildings
ANSWERS
1. c) Traditional bread recipes include flour, salt, water and yeast.
2. d) Flour has been used for over 75,000 years!
3. b) A rosette is a type of dry sausage made in the Lyon region of France (which goes very well with bread!).
4. a) After meals, these slices of stale bread, soaked in food liquids, were sometimes distributed to the underprivileged.
5. b) Before the eraser was invented, using a piece of bread to erase mistakes was not uncommon. Today, “breadcrumb” erasers inspired by this custom can be found in art supply stores.
Notice of Completion of Environmental Project Report
Conversion of Scarborough Rapid Transit Right-of-Way to Busway
Toronto Transit Commission
Project Overview
The Toronto Transit Commission has completed an Environmental Project Report in accordance with the Ontario Regulation 231/08 for the Conversion of Scarborough Rapid Transit Right-of-Way to Busway project.
The Toronto Transit Commission is undertaking a Transit and Rail Project Assessment Process to convert the existing north-south segment of the Line 3 right-of-way into a busway corridor, between Ellesmere Station and Kennedy Station. The Project will also include the removal of the existing Line 3 track and systems and replace it with a paved surface for buses to operate. The new busway corridor will provide a fast and efficient connection between Scarborough Centre Station and Kennedy Station (the current terminus of Line 2). The Busway will include three stops: Tara Avenue/ Moorgate Avenue, Lawrence East, and Ellesmere.
Study Area
The Study Area, totaling 105 hectares, encompasses the section of the Line 3 right-of-way extending approximately 4 kilometers from Ellesmere Road to Eglinton Avenue East, and extending west from Midwest Road to Nantucket Boulevard as depicted in the Study Area map.
The Process
The environmental impact of this Project was assessed and an Environmental Project Report prepared according to the Transit and Rail Project Assessment Process as prescribed in Ontario Regulation 231/08.
The Environmental Project Report for the Conversion of Scarborough Rapid Transit Right-of-Way to Busway project is now available for a 30-day review period starting October 3, 2024 at the following locations:
1. Toronto Transit Commission Head Office
1900 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON., M4S 1Z2
To schedule a review, please contact: Arjun Sahota Senior Community Liaison Officer Arjun.sahota@ttc.ca or 647-706-6487
2. Toronto Public Library – Scarborough Civic Centre Branch 156 Borough Drive, Scarborough, ON., M1P 4N7
Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
3. Don Montgomery Community Recreation Centre 2467 Eglinton Avenue East, Scarborough, ON., M1K 2R1
Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
4. Toronto Transit Commission Line 3 Project Website: ttc.ca/line3
Interested persons are encouraged to review the Environmental Project Report and provide comments by November 4, 2024 to project contact listed below:
Project Contact
Arjun Sahota
Senior Community Liaison Officer
Arjun.Sahota@ttc.ca (647) 706 - 6487
Will the updated mortgage rules make homeownership more attainable?
Recently, the federal government revealed plans to update its mortgage regulations. There are two changes; the first is raising the price cap for insured mortgages (mortgages where the downpayment is less than 20%) from $1M to $1.5 M, and the second is increasing the amortization from the traditional 25-year to 30-year for first-time and new home buyers. In addition, The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) will erase the stress test requirement for uninsured mortgage holders (mortgages where the downpayment is more than 20%) who want to switch lenders.
From December 15th, buyers can buy a home for up to $1.5M with less than 20% as a downpayment. Previously, only buyers with less than 20% could be at most $1M. Lenders will lend 95% of the purchase price on the first $500,000 and 10% of the difference. For example, if you buy a home for $1M, you will need a minimum downpayment of $75,000. With this new guideline, you can buy a home for $1.5M with a downpayment of $125,000, but CMHC will take almost $60,000 (nearly half of the downpayment) to insure the mortgage on behalf of the lender. If a buyer buys a home for $1.5 million, their gross income must be around $300,000 to qualify.
How many families are making a combined income of $300,000? If we
discuss this further, the carrying cost will be around $10,000 per month when combined with property tax and utilities. This program must address the current housing situation. It also encourages families to take on more debt than they can afford. However, we may see more activities around the 1.1M level since more buyers can now buy with around 7.5%.
Mortgage amortization is the time it takes to pay off a mortgage, and, traditionally, it is 25 years. With the new regulation, first-time buyers and buyers buying new construction can choose a 30-year amortization for high-ratio mortgages. A first-time buyer is someone who has never purchased a home or has not owned a principal residence in the past four years. According to the Home Buyers’ Plan, a borrower can qualify as a first-time buyer if they are recently divorced. With a newly built home, the borrower must be the first occupant. Freshly built condos with an interim occupancy period also satisfy the requirement as newly built.
A mortgage at 6% for $100,000 and a 25-year amortization will result in a monthly payment of $639.81, and with a thirty-year amortization, it will be $594.82, a savings of $45.00 per month. The average homeowner has about $600,000 in mortgage and can reduce their monthly payment by $270.00 with the 30-year amortization. This is a good move for affordability, but paying off your mortgage would take five more years.
The feds could have made this easier by offering 30-year amortization to everyone, easing the burden on homeownership for many families. This would have allowed more buyers to afford to purchase and to choose which payment
option they preferred.
Another critical decision by OSFI is that anyone renewing a mortgage with more than 20% in equity can switch lenders without a stress test. A mortgage stress test is designed to qualify buyers using a higher interest rate than the current rate.
The reason is that the homeowner can manage the extra payment if the interest rate increases. When a mortgage is up for renewal, the lender usually does not re-qualify the homeowner, and the mortgage is automatically renewed with the same lender. If the homeowner switches lenders, the homeowner must re-qualify and undergo the stress test. With the new rules, homeowners can now shop around for competitive rates, knowing they do not need a stress test.
The mortgage regulators should abolish the stress test because of its practicality. To become a homeowner, you must be able to save a downpayment and have a good credit record, demonstrating that you know financial management. If the stress test is eliminated, more buyers will qualify to buy, releasing some pressure on the rental market.
The dream of owning a home can become easier if the regulators make their qualifying guidelines more attainable. This can be accomplished by allowing longer amortization, abandoning the stress test, and lowering the interest rates for first-time buyers. Notably, the real estate industry will churn with these changes and lower interest rates.
YOUR HOROSCOPE
for the week of October 6 to October 12, 2024
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: AQUARIUS, PISCES AND ARIES
ARIES: This week, you’ll have promising opportunities at work and may receive a long-awaited promotion. You’ll be able to balance your professional and family commitments effectively and expand your network of customers and collaborators.
TAURUS: To make progress, you must step out of your comfort zone and overcome your fears. When you achieve your goal, you’ll increase your self-esteem and selfconfidence.
GEMINI: A planned trip with your loved ones will pave the way for dynamic and inspiring new friendships. Spend quality time with your partner to strengthen your relationship and have a bright future together.
CANCER: An internship will help you advance your career by clarifying confusing information and illuminating perplexing messages. You’ll be guided in this quest for knowledge.
LEO: After a disagreement, you can restore peace by being open to compromise. You’ll break bad habits, promoting more decisive personal growth.
VIRGO: Participating in your friends’ activities naturally inspires you to move and compete, contributing to your overall well-being. You’ll take advantage of these moments to get back into shape.
LIBRA: You’ll take on new professional responsibilities that require updating your wardrobe. Wearing appropriate clothing can help you make a lasting impression on your clients.
SCORPIO: You may want to spend more time at home with your family this week. Be mindful of maintaining balance and not letting others abuse your generosity.
SAGITTARIUS: As the cold season approaches, it’s important to protect your respiratory tract to avoid a sore throat. Adopt basic preventive measures, such as washing your hands frequently, to protect yourself from germs.
CAPRICORN: This week’s atmosphere may be confusing but also inspiring. Ask questions and express your thoughts freely to obtain reassuring answers on delicate subjects. The artist in you will be creative!
AQUARIUS: This week will bring a lull after a turbulent period. Reflect on your professional future and take steps to adjust your career path to meet your expectations. Good friends know how to bring out the best in you.
PISCES: Shop around and adopt a new look. Take inspiration from friends to discover new trends. Explore a new spiritual universe to unlock enriching experiences.
CROSSWORDS
HOW TO PLAY :
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
PUZZLE NO. 115
PUZZLE NO. 825
CAR FOR SALE: 2014 Toyota Yaris LE hatch back. 1 owner, just over 50,000 KM. Call 416-740-3276
FOR SALE: Snow tire on rims for small SUV in Good ConditionP205-75-15 905-454-3085.
FOR SALE: Time Share in Tornberry, 1.5 from Toronto. Studio size call 416-474-3454.
WINTER TIRES FOR SALE: 4 winter tires on rims fit a Chevy Equnox ( 235.55.R17 ) $500 or best offer call 416-875-5177
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Give your film a
WANTED COOK : Someone to cook once a week at their home large order of Roti, curry chicken and curry potatoes. Cost to be discussed. Email postiexyz@yahoo.ca
CARETAKER: For Weekend Sat and Sun, Must have experience with elderly and canadian reference. Bathurst and Steeles 10:30am to 8:30pm. Call 437-818-5208
WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE
Laparkan is looking for a Warehouse Associate in Shipping and Receiving.
No experience necessary. Will train on the Job.
Send Resume to hrca@laparkan.com or call 416-292-4370
FOR RENT: 2 Bedroom Basement Appt available Immediately. $2150. Separately Entrance, 1 parking, Torbram and Clark. Suitable for small working class family. 647-989-8697.
FOR RENT: Furnished 1 Bedroom Basement For Rent with a Washroom & Shared Kitchen with 1 person. Close to the Bus Stop and Kennedy Subway Station. Near Schools and Shopping Centres. Located in Scarborough, South of Kennedy and Eglinton. $1,350.00/ month including utilities. Available Now. If you are interested, please call (416)459-6155.
Some restrictions may apply. We reserve the right of refusal.
Winter tires Silent heroes
Winter is here! It’s essential to remember the significance of winter tires, the often overlooked but truly silent heroes of winter driving. These specialized tires are not just another accessory; they’re crucial for enhancing road safety in ways many drivers might not realize.
1. They provide enhanced grip. The deeper tread patterns and specially designed grooves in winter tires efficiently channel water away from the tire surface, maintaining contact with the road and preventing dangerous skids. This is especially important in winter when melted snow can create slushy conditions that are just as hazardous as ice.
2. They improve braking. Winter tires are made of soft rubber compounds that remain flexible at low temperatures, ensuring a better grip and shorter stopping distances. This can be crucial during sudden temperature drops.
3. They offer superior stability. The enhanced grip and traction provided by winter tires help drivers maintain control in sharp turns and during sudden manoeuvres. This stability is vital for avoiding accidents in unpredictable winter weather.
4. They minimize wear and tear on your vehicle. By providing better traction and control, winter tires can help reduce the strain on your car’s drivetrain and braking system, potentially lowering maintenance costs in the long run.
Although winter tires aren’t mandatory everywhere, it’s important to assess your risk. Winter tires are a smart choice for anyone living in areas where winter brings snow and ice to the roads. However, winter tires are a good idea for anyone driving in temperatures below 7 C.
The importance of oil changes in cold weather
Oil changes are a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance and even more important in cold weather. As temperatures drop, motor oil can thicken, reducing its ability to flow smoothly through the engine. This decreased viscosity can cause increased friction and wear on engine components. Here’s what you need to know.
Utmost importance
Winter oil changes are a necessity. They ensure your engine is always filled with fresh oil that can effectively lubricate and protect its parts, even in low temperatures. Cold weather can also cause condensation inside the engine. Fresh oil acts as a shield, mitigating this risk and providing better protection and performance.
Moreover, old or dirty oil can become sludgy in cold weather, which can impede the engine’s ability to start smoothly in
cold conditions. This sludge can also block vital passages, further stressing the engine and leading to potential damage over time.
Get the right oil
Using the right oil type for winter is crucial. Many manufacturers recommend synthetic oils for cold weather because they maintain better viscosity at low temperatures, ensuring smoother engine operation.
When choosing oil, pay attention to the viscosity ratings, particularly the “W,” which stands for “winter.” It indicates the oil’s thickness at colder temperatures. For example, oils labelled with lower numbers before the “W,” such as 5W-30 or 0W-30, offer better protection in winter weather compared to oils with a higher number, like 10W40.
Visit your local auto repair shop for a winter oil change.
