Entries now open for The 2023 African Nova Scotian History Challenges
Students and teachers across province invited to participate
Students of all ages across Nova Scotia are invited to participate in The 2023 African Nova Scotian History Challenges to showcase their artistic creativity and historical curiosity.
The Challenges are an initiative by the Delmore "Buddy" Daye Learning Institute (DBDLI) and various partners in education. They were established to encourage discussion about African Nova Scotian history, heritage, and culture.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
With six Challenges and a variety of media formats to choose from, students of all grade levels can participate. Whether you're a budding reporter, sports fan, historian or creator, there's something for everyone.
You are the reporting team covering breaking news about a significant historical event, like Viola Desmond being arrested after refusing to give up her seat in the whites-only section of a movie theatre in New Glasgow. How would you tell that story?
Challenge #2 - Tour Guide
Choose one of the 52 African Nova Scotian communities or settlements, and create a travel brochure for visitors to use if they took a trip to the area.
Challenge #3 - Notable Nova Scotians
Select a notable Nova Scotian both past and present, and write a short essay or record a video about how they are similar, and what impact their work and legacy is making today.
Challenge #4 - Excellence in Entertainment
Write an acceptance speech for a Black athlete or musical artist inducted into a hall of fame. Be sure to include some of their biggest accomplishments, steps to achieve their goals, and inspirations.
Challenge #5 - A Day in the Life
Write a short story or journal entry from the perspective of a Black Loyalist or Black refugee. Where did you come from? Where did you settle? What are your fears, hopes and dreams? How did you survive? How is your life different since settling in Nova Scotia?
Submit a poem, song, illustration, dance, spoken word piece, or any other example of culture that has been influenced by people of African descent.
How to Submit
The following information can be found here:
- Entry form
- Full details on the six Challenges in English and French
- A judging rubric outlining criteria to help students understand what judges are looking for
Entries must be submitted before February 20, 2023.
Awards for Excellence
The DBDLI Awards for Excellence in African Nova Scotian History are presented to students whose submissions best exemplify the contributions African Nova Scotians have made to the history, heritage, and culture of our province and country.
Prizes will be awarded by category: high school (Grades 10-12); junior high (Grades 7-9); and elementary (P-6). Bursaries totaling $3,000, gifts, and prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony in the Spring.
Have questions? Contact historychallenges@dbdli.ca
Learn more:
- Read: Father-son journey to Digby County shines light on little-known Black history
- Photos: From crayons to QR codes: Young students create art for African Nova Scotian History Challenge
- Listen: African Nova Scotia history contest for school aged children
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