Through My Lens: The National Black Canadians Summit

Having the opportunity to attend The National Black Canadians Summit in Halifax this summer was an amazing experience.

As a Black Canadian, it was transformational to be immersed in my people and culture. Learning about and having the chance to photograph even a small part of the African and Black Canadian Diaspora was a gift that I'll cherish for many moons. The different countries and cultures that make up our people was truly a beauty to behold. 

Black Canadians of African descent have a rich history in these lands — especially here in Nova Scotia where they have been present for more than 400 years.

Whether discussing Mathieu Da Costa translating Indigenous coastal languages for European traders in the 1600s or Lawrence Hill's vast collection of literary works that help shape the landscape for change and advancement that is much much needed today, our people have impacted this nation on so many levels. 

One of my absolute favourite parts of the Summit was the vibrant and electrifying fashion choices worn by the 1,200 delegates. With so many different and fresh looks and styles, the Summit could have been called Halifax Fashion Weekend! 

One of the more special moments that stood out for me took place the last night of the Summit. I was outside the old World Trade and Convention Centre, now a multidisciplinary arts space called Light House Arts Centre, preparing to photograph an 11 year-old artist from Toronto. She and her 9 year-old sister were the youngest delegates, attending the conference with their mother, an academic doing her PhD.

Before conducting their photoshoot, I noticed a cardinal-looking woman in a beautiful African-style dress with three people following and attending to her. Despite not knowing who she was, her stature and their presence made it clear she was someone of significance. 

Quickly and shyly, I asked if I could take her photo. "Of course," she said, and without hesitation struck a pose. 

I pointed my camera and hastily clicked a few shots without really checking or adjusting my settings. Before I could look up from reviewing my images in the digital display, she had walked away. 

I quickly called out, "May I ask where you're from?" 

Looking back with a small smile, she said, "New York, we move fast there." 

This interaction caught me by surprise: I usually at least get the name of the person I'm photographing, but she was on the move.

When I did get a chance to review the images, I was happy to see that her portrait turned out great. After reviewing the Summit program and doing a little Google search, I was super excited to discover that this stylish and speedy New Yorker was the United Nations delegate Dr. Natalia Kanem. She is the Executive Director of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), a medical doctor and a graduate of several American universities, including Harvard. 

It was an honour and an inspiration to have had the opportunity to take her photograph, and a blessing to have been in her presence during The National Black Canadian Summit. 

More photos through Alvero Wiggins'  lens

Through My Lens is a community series that features the point-of-view stories behind photos from across the East Coast.

For more stories about the experiences of Black Canadians — from anti-Black racism to success stories within the Black community — check out Being Black in Canada, a CBC project Black Canadians can be proud of. You can read more stories here.