Table of Contents

Spectrum Article – Funding

3

Social Tea Invitation

4

Storytelling/Jaku Konbit Academy

5

Letter to Elders

6

Afro-Fest Bus Trip

7

Sewing Workshops/Greatness is Within ME! Summer Camp

8

Bibi Corona Lukumbuzya Interview

9

The Charles Town Maroons at Centre Point

10

History of the Maroons

11

Bahamas National Youth Choir

12

Maypole and Quadrille

14

Spectrum Midterm Update

15

JamDay

15

Turkey Basics

16

Kwanzaa/It Takes A Village Play

17

Tanzania Social Tea

18

International African Inventors Museum

20

Black History Ottawa-Storytelling

21

April Afternoon Delight

22

Washing by Hand/ Greatness is Within ME! Summer Camp

24

Green Star Enterprise Community Garden

25

Community Outreach

26

UTMT at Cathedral Arts Concert

27

Birthday wishes – Mr. Stanley Grizzle

27

Thank you

28

The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc. and Jaku Konbit gets funding for

‘Under The Mango Tree – Stories between the Generations’

On February 13th, 2009, Joanne Robinson of the Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc. and

Tarrah Mauricette of Jaku Konbit received the good news. They were approved for the New Horizons

for Seniors Program which ensures that seniors can benefit from, and contribute to, the quality of life

in their communities, through the Community Participation and Leadership fund.

The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc. and Jaku Konbit are both non-profit, community

based organizations that have collaborated on a joint project entitled, Under The Mango Tree (UTMT)

– Stories Between the Generations. In keeping with African and Caribbean traditions of storytelling and

value and respect for elders, UTMT, facilitated by seniors Ms. Joyce Smith and Mrs. Pearline Mortan, is

designed to bridge the years between seniors and youth.

Under the Mango Tree promotes an environment conducive to pleasant and open dialogue between the

generations, and builds or restores healthy relationships. This opportunity taps into the wealthy

experiences of seniors and allows them a platform to share their stories, talents, and wisdom with

children. In addition, it fills possible voids by providing surrogates grandparents for children and youth

who may not have access to such relationships and it avoids possible isolation of seniors. UTMT takes it

back to basics by attempting to recapture the oral tradition of passing on stories. Just sit and listen

– to HIS-story, HER-story, OUR-story, or read-a-BOOK-story.

The project is free and will commence on Saturday, March 21st, 2009 at 945 Wellington St. (3rd Floor)

from 2:30-3:15pm. UTMT will run until February of 2010 and will be both host and collaborators on

various community events throughout the year.

The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc. and Jaku Konbit are very exciting about this

opportunity and to welcome seniors and youth to sit Under The Mango Tree.

For more information

Call: Joyce @ 613-526-4345

Email:UTMTree@gmail.com

www.jamaicanottawaassn.org

www.jakukonbit.com

Facilitators of the Under the Mango Tree Program:

Joanne Robinson Joyce Smith Tarrah Mauricette Pearline Mortan

You are cordially invited to enjoy a SOCIAL TEA

UNDER THE MANGO TREE

a pleasant afternoon to enlighten you about a great community event, and to delight you with delicious treats

Sunday, May 3rd 2009 1:30 pm ~ 3:30 pm

Masonic Centre 2140 Walkley Rd.

“Under the Mango Tree: Stories between the Generations”

promoting open dialogue between generations • building healthy relationships • acknowledging wealthy experiences of seniors • sharing stories, talents, and wisdom • fostering grand-parenting • encouraging senior

participation • recapturing oral traditions

Just sit and listen to HIS-story, HER-story, OUR-story, or read-a-BOOK-story.

RSVP by April 24th

for more info: Call: Joyce@613-526-4345

Email:UTMTree@gmail.com (attn: Pearline) www.jamaicanottaassn.org

www.jakukonbit.com

Attendance by invitation only as space is limited

You are cordially invited to enjoy a Social Tea

Under the Mango Tree. A pleasant Sunday afternoon to enlighten

you about the ‘Under the Mango Tree project and delight you with delicious treats.

Dear Community Elder,

In keeping with African and Caribbean traditions of storytelling and value and respect for elders, The Jamaican Ottawa Community Association Inc. (JOCA) and Jaku Konbit have collaborated on an effort designed to bridge the generations between seniors and youth. ‘Under the Mango Tree’ facilitates an environment conducive to a pleasant and open dialogue between the generations; to build or restores healthy relationships. This opportunity taps into the wealthy experiences of seniors and allows them a platform to share their stories, talents, and wisdom with our children. In addition, it fills possible voids and provides surrogates for children and youth who may not have access to such relationships, and avoids possible isolation of seniors. UTMT takes it back to basics by attempting to recapture to oral tradition of passing on stories. Just sit and listen- – To HIS-story, HER-story, OUR-story, or read-a-BOOK-story.

We are therefore please asking you to consider being one of our guest storytellers. Listed below are some suggested areas in which you wish to participate but we are open to suggestions:

1. Reading a book or two (at your comfort) to a group of our community children 2. Sharing an interesting story or stories of your life (ex. Growing up as a child in the Caribbean or

Africa) 3. Sharing skills, passions, hobbies, etc

Sincerely,

Joyce Smith

Ms. Joyce Smith Ms. Bernice Frank-Taitt Alice Bwembo Storytelling Trinidad & Tobago – Carnival Uganda

Mr. Enoka Bainomugisha African Marriages Ms. Florence Robinson Ms. Deslyn Agard Read to by Jaku Konbit Children Singing Calyspo

More camp highlights included The Under the Mango Tree (UTMTree)~

Stories Between the Generations project facilitated by Jaku Konbit and the Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association. It offers a platform for seniors to share their stories, skills, experiences and wisdom with the children and youth. As part of the program, every second week seniors, Joyce Smith and Pearline Mortan, introduced the camp participants to sewing; facilitating wonderful bonds while learning valuable skills.

Under The Mango Tree was the opportunity for youth counsellors to interviewed Bibi Corona Lukumbuzya of the

Tanzanian Community about her love of farming. This exchange was very helpful component to the GREEN business plan for the Black Star Enterprise

JAKU KONBIT

Summer Camp 2009

Presents

Bibi Corona/Heri Muhero

Green Star Enterprise/ UNDER THE MANGO TREE~

Stories Between the Generations

Heri Muhero (facilitator), along the youth counsellors; Kosi, Priscilla and Rayah-Simone had an opportunity to interview Bibi (grandmother) Corona about her love of farming; its benefits and rewards. This experience allowed the counsellors firsthand insight on their research for

their Green Star Enterprise business plan for a community garden. It also allowed for an exchange between elder and youth, an objective of the Under the Mango Tree program.

UTMTree presented Mrs. Nyame Samuels of the Jamaican Community with a lovely evening with campers at the performance by the Charlestown Maroons of Jamaica at the Centrepoint Theatre. This event brought the rich history and resilience of the Jamaican people to the stage. It was very education within its entertainment.

Maroon History

The Jamaican Maroons were runaway slaves who fought the British

during the 18th century, and the term is now used for their

descendants. Some of the Jamaican Maroons were taken to Nova

Scotia, Canada and from there some were taken to Freetown, Sierra

Leone.

When the British captured Jamaica in 1655 the Spanish colonists fled

leaving a large number of African slaves. Rather than be re-enslaved

by the British, they escaped into the hilly, mountainous regions of the island, joining those who had

previously escaped from the Spanish to live with the Taínos. The Maroons intermarried with

Amerindian natives, establishing independence in the back Mtime, the Maroons came to control large

areas of the Jamaican interior

Their plantation raids resulted in the First Maroon War. The two main

Maroon groups in the 18th century were the Leeward and the Windward

tribes, the former led by Cudjoe in Trelawny Town and the latter led by

his sister Queen Nanny (and later by Quao).[1]

Queen Nanny, also known

as Granny Nanny (died 1733) is the only female listed among Jamaica's

National Heroes, and has been immortalized in songs and legends. She

was known for her exceptional leadership skills, especially in guerrilla

warfare, which were particularly important in the First Maroon War in the early 1700s. Her remains are

reputedly buried at "Nanny Bump" in Moore Town, the main town of the Windward Maroons who are

concentrated in and around the Rio Grande valley in the northeastern parish of Portland.

In 1739-40 the British governor in Jamaica signed a treaty with the Maroons, promising them 2500 acres

(10 km²) in two locations. They were to remain in their five main towns Accompong, Trelawny Town,

Mountain Top, Scots Hall, Nanny Town, living under their own

chief with a British supervisor. In exchange, they agreed not to

harbour new runaway slaves, but rather to help catch them. They

were paid a bounty of two dollars for each returned slave. This last

clause in the treaty naturally caused tension between the Maroons

and the enslaved black population, although from time to time

runaways from the plantations still found their way into Maroon

settlements. Originally, Jamaican Maroons fought against slavery

and maintained their independence from the British. However, in the

treaty of 1738, they were also paid to return captured slaves and fight for the British in the case of an

attack from the French or Spanish.

However, tensions between planters and Maroons remained and a Second Maroon War broke out in

1795. The Accompong Maroons remained neutral and the British left them alone. By the end of the war,

the other Maroon settlements in Jamaica had been destroyed, and Accompong alone remained.

Deportation to Nova Scotia

In 1796 about 600 Jamaican Maroons from Trelawney Town were deported from Jamaica to Nova

Scotia following their rebellion against the colonial government.[2]

The Jamaican government tired of

the cost of maintaining order, had decided to rid themselves of "the problem". Immediate actions were

put in place for the removal of one group of Maroons (Trelawney) to Lower Canada (Quebec); Upper

Canada (Ontario) had also been suggested as a suitable place. However, it was eventually decided that

this group be sent to Halifax, Nova Scotia, until any further instructions were received from England.

Two gentlemen, Messrs Quarrell and Octerloney, were sent from Jamaica with the Maroons as

Commissioners.

On 26 June 1796, the Dover, Mary, and Anne sailed from Port Royal Harbour, Jamaica to Halifax. One

arrived in Halifax on 21 July, the other two followed two days later bringing in total 543 men, women

and children. The Duke of Kent and Commander-in-Chief of the British Army in North America,

impressed with the proud bearing and other characteristics of the Maroons, employed the group to work

on the new fortifications at the Citadel Hill in Halifax. The Lieutenant-Governor Sir John Wentworth

believed that the Maroons would be good settlers. He then received orders from the Duke of Portland to

settle them in Nova Scotia. Following this the two commissioners responsible with credit of 25,000

Jamaican pounds from the government of Jamaica, expended £3,000 on 5,000 acres (20 km2) of land

and built the community of Preston. Governor Wentworth also was granted an allowance of £240

annually from England to provide religious instruction and schooling for the community. After the first

winter, the Maroons, raised in an independent culture and not impressed with the apparently servile

virtues of cultivating the soil, became less tolerant of the conditions in which they were living.

The British government decided it would be better to send them to Sierra Leone than to try to persuade

them to farm in a cold climate and the survivors were deported to West Africa in 1800. Not surprisingly,

exile to Africa was not an easy transition for the Trelawney Maroons. "By 1841, 90 per cent (sic) of the

remaining Maroons (in Sierra Leone)--some 591--returned to Jamaica" to work for "Jamaican planters"

who "desperately needed workers" (Fortin 23).

The Maroons today

To this day, the Maroons in Jamaica are to a large extent autonomous

and separate from Jamaican culture. The isolation used to their

advantage by their ancestors has today led to their communities being

amongst the most inaccessible on the island. In their largest town,

Accompong, in the parish of St. Elizabeth, the Leeward Maroons still

possess a vibrant community of about 600. Tours of the village are

offered to foreigners and a large festival is put on every January 6 to

commemorate the signing of the peace treaty with the British after *******************************************************************************************************************************

Bahamas National Youth Choir

Patrons: Their Excellency, Dame Dr. Ivy Dumont, DCMG, Governor-General of The Commonwealth of The

Bahamas and Mr. Dumont

The repetoire of the Bahamas National Youth Choir is

wide-ranging, encompassing classical music, Broadway

tunes, American contemporary, spirituals, folk music of the

Caribbean and the world, and its specialty, Bahamian folk

and calypso music most of which have been arranged by

the founder/director and is presented with brightly coloured

costumes, energetic and creative choreography and

effective lighting.

The Bahamas National Youth Choir was established in 1983 and reestablished in 1990, and consists of some

thirty-six people between the ages of 16 and twenty-seven years, who give voluntarily of their time without

remuneration as a form of national service.

The Choir can be heard in concert annually during the week preceding Holy Week the Dundas Center

for the Performing Arts. It has produced eight recordings. To date, the Choir has sung in eighteen

languages including French, German, Spanish, Hungarian, Hebrew, Norwegian, Malay, Japanese, Latin,

Haitian Creole, Fante, Hausa, Ga, Twi, Zulu, Yoruba, Mandarin and English.

Maypole and Quadrille

Interest Program supported by The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Sponsored by Under the Mango Tree: We are seeking serious individuals who are interested in exercise, dance, quality of life, fun, freedom and community involvement. If you have ever seen Jamaican cultured dance and wonder how it is done and would like to try it; then join us Under the Mango Tree ‘where de cool breeze dah blow’. We are introducing Maypole, Quadrille. Here is a brief background of this family oriented dance.

Maypole A European retention which was originally celebrated on May first at the May Day fertility celebration in England. It is now very Jamaican in character. Groups may comprise 12 to 16 dancers - sometimes all female or with mixed couples. The plaiting of the pole with coloured ribbons has basic traditional patterns, starting with the grand chain, basket weave wrapping the ribbons around the pole from the top. The plaiting then continues away from the pole ending with the 'cobweb' plait before the full un-plaiting takes place. Mento music is usually the musical accompaniment, but it is now not unusual to have groups perform this dance to popular reggae tunes.

Quadrille Jamaica Traditional Dance

This is a ballroom set dance, which originated in the courts of Europe and was danced in Jamaica by the gentry during slavery. There are two styles - the Ballroom and the Camp Style - the former European, the latter the Creolized version. Mento Bands accompany these dances playing a variety of traditional European tunes, except for the fifth figure which employs the Mento, the first music created by Jamaicans. So if you find this interesting then this is an invitation to you. (Children are welcome) Please call or sign up with Carol at carolrdaley@yahoo.ca , or Joanne at jrobinson3425@yahoo.ca.

A couple variations of traditional costumes:

Under The Mango Tree~ Stories Between the Generations

by Tarrah Mauricette on behalf of Jaku Konbit & The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc.

Last May, the Under The Mango Tree ~ Stories Between the Generations program was host to a

successful Sunday social tea for the elders in the community. This collaborative effort between Jaku

Konbit and the Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association work to build the bridge between children,

youth and elders. Guided by this mandate, the social tea allowed an opportunity to make elders feel

appreciated and to enjoy a wonderful afternoon with light entertainment, delicious treats and delightful

conversation.

A nice twist to the afternoon program was 10-year Asante Mungele of the Jaku Konbit Academy who

read the lovely and powerful storybook, It Takes A Village by Jane Cowen-Fletcher with Jamaican

Elder, Mrs. Nyame Samuels. The story reinforces the responsibility of the community to our children.

The program continued throughout July and August primarily with the Jaku Konbit „Greatness is

Within ME! Summer Camp. Under the Mango Tree served as a fresh and exciting aspect to the camp‟s

2009 schedule; adding to its success. The facilitators of UTMTree, Mrs. Pearline Mortan and Ms.

Joyce Smith held three sewing sessions in which the youth learned the basics of sewing. It was

fantastic and the kids thoroughly enjoyed what was a new experience for most. To top it off, they

graduated and were honoured with a certificate of completion and mini sewing kit. Camp youth

counsellors also had the chance to visit Bibi (Grandmother) Corona Lukumbuzya at her City of

Ottawa‟s Kilborn farming plots, to interview her on her love of farming. This exchange gave the youth

great insight on their camp project of writing a business plan for Green jobs – Green Star Enterprise.

As the fall/winter season approaches, UTMTree continues with more exciting ventures. As the focus

of the Jaku Konbit‟s Saturday Academy, community elders are preparing to direct a play of the book;

It Takes A Village by Jane Cowen-Fletcher., which will be presented at the Community Kwanzaa

Celebration in December. With details still on the table, in October, look forward to learning the

Caribbean Cultural dance; the Quadrille, while November will highlight, Tanzania – I’ll Take You

There. During Black History Month, UTMTree looks forward to participating in more storytelling,

allowing the elders a platform to share their skills, talents and wisdom.

The term of the project will conclude in the spring with a celebratory gathering for participants of

Under The Mango Tree ~ Stories Between The Generations.

***********************************************************************************

JAMDAY - Although the maypole dance was performed predominately by the members of the

Jamaican Association, we had youth from the audience join into the dance after. It gave us a great

feeling of pride to see the youth enjoying themselves while learning the dance.

PRESENTS

TURKEY BASICS

YOU CAN COOK FOR ONE OR TWO

December 13, 2009

Heron Road Seniors’ Centre

1480 Heron Road

2:45 pm to 5 pm

DEMONSTRATION BY:

Retired Chef& CFA Mr. E Campbell

For Further information and registration,

please contact:

(613) 739-0955, (613) 526-4345, (613) 731-5371 or (613) 738-1661

Limited seating of 25, please confirm your attendance

*This project is in conjunction with the Healthy Lifestyles – Under the Mango Tree

Project sponsored by The New Horizons Program

Presentation by : Retired Chef & CFA Mr. E. Campbell

The purpose of this presentation and hopefully others to follow is to educate our

community on portion control in cooking and to teach those who do not know how,

very simple menus. Quite often our members are use to preparing large meals. When

they become empty nesters, they tend to still cook the same way. We have working

people and youth who do not know how to cook this presentation and others will be

aimed at assisting them as well. Mr. E. Campbell, a retired chef and Community

Food Advisor from the City of Ottawa Health Department CFA, provided an

interactive demonstration on „Turkey Basics‟; the art of separating a turkey into

several servings and portions. The members were treated to a turkey dinner

sampling.

Under the Mango Tree

Under the Mango Tree - Stories Between the

Generations brings a new dimension to this year 's

Community Kwanzaa Celebrat ion setting up the event to be a memorable one.

Under the Mango Tree (UTMTree) promotes an

environment conducive to tapping into the wealth

of skills and experiences of seniors. It provides

them with a plat form to share their stories, talents,

and wisdom with children and youth. UTMTree

takes it back to basics by attempting to recapture

the oral tradit ion of passing on stories and the

special bond shared between elders and young ones.

Themed as Kwanzaa Celebrates Us!, the year -end event is gearing up to be another excit ing

celebrat ion of showcasing the successes of Ottawa‟s African and Caribbean communities with

joy and pride, as we recommit to the year ahe ad.

As part of our commitment to project ing a posit ive reflect ion of our cultures, various generat ions

of UTMTree will be performing a revised play based on the Jane Cowen-Fletcher book "It Takes

a Village to Raise a Child". In addit ion to cult ivat ing an opportunity for elders and youth to

interact with one another, the play also encourages the message of supporting programs, families

and one another for a brighter tomorrow.

Reinterpretat ion of book „It takes a Village‟ by Jane Cowen -Fletcher

Narrator - Tarrah Mauricette

Mother: SamSam Ahmed

Daughter: Asante Mungele

Son: Malchezedek (Roots)

Peanut Vendor: Heri Muhero

Food Vendor: Adeline Hardie

Drink Vendor: Huldah Beauge

Comfort Vendor: Deslyn Agard

Cool down Vendor: Joyce Smith

Nap Vendor: Renford Thomas

Group Vendors:

Brenda Agard, Joanne Robinson, Barbara Wilson, Antoinette Smith

Come enjoy a delightful Sunday Afternoon Social Tea

JANUARY 24, 2010 2-4pm

St.Thomas Anglican Church 2345 Alta Vista Dr.

Bus # 8 Billing Bridge from Hurdman

●Slide presentation

●Cultural displays (some items for sale) ●SIFA Choir ●Tanzanian finger-foods

●101 ways to wear Khangas ●KiSwahili Storytelling

●Great Hospitality and more

Facilitated by Under The Mango Tree~ Stories Between the Generations (Jaku Konbit & Jamaican

Ottawa Community Assoc.) African Spiritual Fellowship, and Tanzanian Community.

Facilitated by Under The Mango Tree~ Stories Between the Generations (Jaku Konbit & Jamaican

Ottawa Community Assoc.) African Spiritual Fellowship, and Tanzanian Community.

Facilitated by Under The Mango Tree~ Stories Between the Generations (Jaku Konbit & Jamaican

Ottawa Community Assoc.) African Spiritual Fellowship, and Tanzanian Community.

A Collaborative effort between

Under the Mango Tree (Jaku Konbit and Jamaican (Ottawa) Community

Association), African Fellowship and the Tanzanian

Community, with the participation of his Excellency, Peter

Kallaghe of The Tanzania High Commission & Staff

For more info:

Call: Tarrah @ 613-567-0600 or Email:

utmtree@gmail.com

This event is at no Charge

On Sunday, January 24

th, 2010, UTMT, African Fellowship and the

Tanzania Community of Ottawa played host to a very successful Tanzania

Social Tea receiving close to 250 guests. The basement hall of the

St.Thomas Anglican Church was transformed into a warm and welcoming

Tanzania market scene. Adorned in brightly coloured fabrics, a variety of

displays, the enticing aroma of good food and a sea of bodies; you really

would have thought you were in Tanzania.

About the collaboration

Under The Mango Tree (UTMT) – Stories Between the Generations is a joint project between Jaku

Konbit (www.jakukonbit.com) and the Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc.

(www.jamaicaottawaassoc.org)

both non-profit, community based organizations. UTMT promotes environments conducive to pleasant and

open dialogue between the generations, and builds or restores healthy relationships. This opportunity taps

into the wealthy experiences of seniors and allows them a platform to share their stories, talents, and

wisdom with children and youth.

The African Fellowship is also a community based organization whose main objective is to assist new

African immigrants integrate into the mainstream Canadian society; to support each other in times of joy

and in times of sorrow, exchange ideas and create a foundation for a better community.

As the ambassadors of Tanzania, the Ottawa Tanzanian Community came ready and willing to share their

wealth of their country. All dressed in Khangas; the traditional wear of Tanzania, filling the room with the

richness of their language, KiSwahili, expressing their traditions and serving delicious food, their pride was

clear.

In Support of Family Literacy

Literacy is more than books. There are many ways to strengthen your literacy skills - all it takes is

practicing for 15 minutes every day. Reading, writing, playing a game, following a recipe or even singing

a song all help prepare children for challenges ahead and sharpen skills for adults.

In support of Ontario‟s Family Literacy Day, the many children present enjoyed storytelling in Kiswahili

read by Stella Haybukhai of the Tanzanian Community and received lovely „Keep Reading‟ bookmarks

for their participation and attention.

THE INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN INVENTORS MUSEUM

To help commemorate Black History Month 2010, Jaku

Konbit (in collaboration with Black History Ottawa and

the Canada Science and Technology Museum) hosted an

exhibition of the International African Inventors Museum

from February 11th to February 14th.

The exhibit offered a unique opportunity to showcase the

achievements of people of African descent in the fields of

science, technology, and innovation. The world we see

today − the cities we live in, the ways in which we travel,

how we communicate with each other, and the volume of

information we now exchange every hour of every day −

is a reflection of humanity‟s successes at creativity and

invention. Today‟s global trade network would not be

possible without satellite navigation, which in turn would not have been possible without the invention of the

compass, which would not have made a difference without first understanding the properties of metals and the

principles of magnetism, or the celestial orientation of the stars. Scientific breakthroughs in one area often

linked to breakthroughs in other areas. It therefore bears repeating that African scientists, mathematicians,

and engineers have contributed a significant body of knowledge to our overall understanding of the world.

When we get into an elevator, when a car stops at a traffic light, when a train travels uninterrupted, or when

we schedule a blood transfusion, the history books don‟t always tell the full story of the people behind these

and other inventions. All too often, people of African descent have been excluded from the picture. Jaku

Konbit believes it‟s important to celebrate those successes, and to highlight the stories of African innovation

for a new generation. The International African Inventors Museum offered students, educators, parents, and

the community at large, a rich and personalized environment in which to explore a wealth of scientific and

technological achievement. In more concrete terms, it offers today‟s black youth wonderful examples of

success and ingenuity in areas other than sports, music, or entertainment.

Over the past several years, Jaku Konbit has put on a summer camp for African and Caribbean youth using

the slogan: “Greatness is within ME”. The slogan only has meaning and relevance if familiar faces, stories of

accomplishment, and concrete examples of greatness are uncovered and delightfully presented to a youthful

audience. Confidence and self-esteem go hand-in-hand with success and innovation. If Black History Month

is a time where African and Caribbean communities can commemorate an illustrious legacy of triumph over

tragedy, then the African Inventors Museum helps paint a wonderful canvas of a glorious history of

achievement. The exhibit was a unique and creative way of letting children know that greatness is truly

within each of them.

Tarrah Mauricette and Joanne Robinson

tending to Under the Mango Tree Display

Children's Stories in the Diaspora. Listen to readers from the black community share children's

stories written by black authors from the diaspora.

„I can't thank you and other UTMT members for your participation in yesterday's program. The kids and

their parents seemed to really enjoy being read to by your group. I think UTMT should remain a

permanent

fixture in this annual event. It's the perfect opportunity to publicize your initiatives to other like-minded

folks interested in bridging the generation gap through such community-building activities.‟

: Photos by Sarah Onyango, Black History Ottawa

Can't wait for the Social in April!

Children's Stories Continues: As part of the Under the Mango Tree reading program, we also read to the

children at other events such as JAMDAY 2009.

Ms. Lurline Wright was our volunteer – read to the children at the

children’s village for JAMDAY 2009

Under the Mango Tree – Stories Between The Generations - Tarrah Mauricette, Pearline Mortan, Joanne Robinson and Joyce Smith

Everyone has a story or talent to give and sitting Under the Mango Tree (UTMTree) proved a perfect place to receive.

The latter term of the New Horizons for Seniors funding for the Under the Mango Tree- Stories Between the Generations program progressed with as much vigor and enthusiasm as the first. The program which facilitates a platform for elders and children continue to welcome new and exciting opportunities enriching the lives of both young and old.

The Autumn season celebrated the annual Jamaica Day (JAMDAY) celebration had members of The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association providing the crowd with an engaging demonstration of the Maypole, a

traditional folk dance. Later followed by Mr. E. Campbell, a retired chef and Community Food Advisor from the City of Ottawa Health Department CFA, provided an interactive demonstration on ‘Turkey Basics’; the art of separating a turkey into several servings and portions. The members were then treated to a turkey dinner sampling. UTMTree ushered in the winter season with the Jaku Konbit’s Saturday Academy and community elders providing a new dimension to the Community Kwanzaa Celebration. They performed an interpretative play of the book; It Takes A Village by Jane Cowen-Fletcher. It was a wonderful presentation as it involved the audience as part of the landscape. With no time to rest and trailing soon after, UTMTree collaborated with members from the Tanzanian Community and the African Fellowship to host Tanzania Social Tea. This occasion invited the Tanzanian Community to be ambassadors of their Tanzania offering a cultural exhibit of their country. UTMTree closed the winter season with elders participating in the Black History Ottawa annual Storytelling Series. Surrounded by the excited faces, eager smiles and listening ears of children, the elders read stories to the children at the Centre Pointe Library.

Wrapping up the end of the proposal term in the Spring, UTMTree hosted an April Afternoon Delight, an occasion to thank the participants and to present a summation of the program. The audience enjoyed a drumming summons by 8yr old Shabaka Mwinamila, a PowerPoint dedication, poetry read by elder Adelin Bruce, a hat fashion show by Daphne Campbell, serenades by Keith Woleston and Victor Gooding. The Domestic Workers of the Caribbean to Canada who paved the way in the 1950’s through the 1970’s for others to follow were also recognized.

The April Afternoon Delight with concluded with the song ‘Better People’ by India Arie performed by three youth of the Jaku Konbit Academy; Asante Mungele, and Maya and Namukasa Basudde. This song encourages dialogue between the generations and was a perfect prelude to the socializing while salivating over the

delicious refreshments. The UTMTree is certainly a rewarding endeavor and its success rests on the shoulders of many. We use this medium to thank all the participants of the program; too many to mention. We wish to extend our sincere thanks for your participation and appreciation for your dedication to the program. Although the funding has come to an end, the journey for UTMTree is long from over. We continue to look forward to cultivating and nurturing from the roots to fruits whilst sitting Under the Mango Tree.

***********************************************************************************

Jaku Konbit was once again able to provide the Ottawa Community with another successful summer

program. The „Greatness is Within ME! Summer Camp 2010 boosted increase number of participants,

employment of youth, new partnerships, exciting guests, and more. All this, within the usual camp activities

of outings, arts and crafts, swimming, games, sports to name a few.

Since 2007, Jaku Konbit has facilitated a summer camp for children between the ages of 7-12.The program

weighs on African and African Diaspora content and serves as a rich and wonderful experience for all.

Along with this and many other unique features, this camp experience certainly stands out from the rest,

offering academic, social and cultural components.

An essential and unique component of this camp is the inclusion of community involvement by providing a

platform for special guest and elders as well as collaborative efforts with various community organisations.

This year delivered another great line-up of guests ready and willing to enrich the summer experience for

the camp participants, providing with an array of diverse and interesting topics of interests.

There is no other program of this nature established in the region and certainly is a welcomed additional to

the enhancement of the National Capital rich and diverse cultural tapestry. In addition, it engages children

and youth to develop themselves in a productive and constructive environment reducing the chances of

becoming involved in destructive conducts.

Jaku Konbit Greatness is Within ME! Summer Camp is another program working together for a better

community.

What a wonderful experience it was to have Ms Verene Blenman at the Greatness is Within ME! Summer Camp. She spoke to the campers about growing up in the Caribbean and learning to wash her clothing from a very young age. It was her pleasure and took great pride in the task. Ms. Blenman then taught the campers how to wash by hand; dirty dish clothes and socks were readily available. The campers had great fun and they too took pride in their work.

About Green Star Enterprise

GSE Team Summer 2010

GreenStar is the most recent initiative implemented by Jaku

Konbit. It intends to build a youth advocacy group for

increased access to healthy eating and physical activity while

introducing innovative Green careers and entrepreneurial

opportunities. The purpose of involving youth is primarily to

engage them as effective agents for change by contributing

their unique perspectives and desire to take action.

UTMTree elder and farming coach played an instrumental

role in the success of this mission.

Bibi Corona Lukumbuzya grew up farming in her native country of Tanzania, East Africa and has never

stopped. Through Under the Mango Tree she shared her expertise and love of farming to the GreenStar team

who would have been lost without her. Even with over 20 plots of her own and she still managed to find the

time to help GreenStar plant and groom their vegetables. Without her knowledge and advice the program

would not have been a success

Harvest

From planting to reaping and everything in between the GreenStar team has managed to produce a healthy

bountiful crop. The Youth maintained 6 plots and harvested; onions, parsley, beats, beans, callaloo, leeks,

corn, green peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, basil, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, red and green

cabbage,.

(Left-Right: Shelly, Asha, Josh, Toaling, Rubin, James, Shynise, Will)

Community Outreach

Reaching out to the community is a great way for Green Star to give back. By doing presentations,

attending community events and donating free food baskets to local businesses, individuals and charities,

Green Star Enterprise has created a platform for youth to speak up about environmental, fitness and

dietary issues.

Food baskets where distributed to popular African/Caribbean businesses in the nation‟s capital in order to

spread the word and establish Green Star`s presence within the community. Some of those business

include; Island Jerk, Savana, tropical cuisine cafe, Groovies Roti Hut, Le Lambi Carribean food, Trapical

Garden, Tropics and Island Flava. Food baskets where also donated to elders and families within the

community.

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NOVEMBER WITH CATHEDRAL ARTS: A Heritage of Sacrifice and Pride Cathedral Arts, the arts programme at Christ Church Cathedral Ottawa, is pleased to announce two special events for its November schedule on the theme - A Heritage of Sacrifice and Pride: Saturday, November 6th – 1:30PM Remembrance and Commemoration Concert

The Remembrance and Commemoration Concert has become a tradition for Cathedral Arts. It brings together musical artists from across Ottawa’s diverse community, and recognizes the generations of Canadians who served their country in times of war and peace. This year is particularly noteworthy because it marks six important celebrations: the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Royal Canadian Navy; the 70th Anniversary of both the Battle of Britain and the Evacuation of Dunkirk; the 65th Anniversary of the end of World War II; and the 60th year since the outbreak of the Korean War.

Cathedral Arts has been proud to commemorate these special Canadian military anniversaries, be it the distinctive commemoration with the Nathaniel Dett Chorale to mark the 90th Anniversary of the

Number Two Construction Battalion of 1916; the stirring presentation with the National Capital Concert band to mark the 90th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge; or the poignant event last year, with the band, to observe the 65th Anniversary of D-Day.

At this year’s concert, Cathedral Arts is delighted to present the National Capital Concert Band; members of the Cathedral Girls’ Choir; and Songmen Six (members of the Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys). As is the custom, a portion of the proceeds of this event will be given to the Perley-Rideau Veterans' Hospital for its Alzheimer Unit.

As you may or may not know that back in 2001 or so, the late Owen

Rowe (a Barbadian-born Canadian who was in the RCAF) started a

Remembrance Day tradition of laying a wreath on behalf of West

Indian veterans at the foot of the national War Memorial in Ottawa

during the Nov. 11 ceremonies. After Mr. Rowe's death, Rev. Joel

Charles continued the tradition (at his won expense) to make sure

Canadians never forget that Canadian blacks also sacrificed and gave

their lives in service to their country and to democracy. As of this

year,

Mr. Rowe's daughter, Kathy Grant, and myself, have decided to

financially support this annual wreath-laying tradition since none of

the Caribbean associations are willing to do so.

Usually, Rev. Charles chooses a young person to lay the wreath or does so himself. However, Kathy and I

decided that we should associate the wreath-laying with some sort of presentation prior to Nov. 11, on the

contributions of Canada's black men and women in uniform. Since Jaku Konbit is really the only child-and-

youth-focused black organization I know of that offers a regular educational/history/cultural program, I was

wondering if it would be possible to enlist one of the Heru Academy kids for this year's wreath-laying?

Please let me know what you think asap so we can arrange the pre-Nov. 11 presentation and see how we

could turn this exercise into a "teachable heritage moment"...and maybe even an annual tradition?

Sarah Onyango

Last night, on behalf of the Jaku Konbit Academy, myself, my

kids and a couple others called Mr. Grizzle in Toronto and

sung to him

our very funky version ( including the normal children's

quirky injections) of the Happy Birthday Song. He was elated.

So much so, he took down my name and the name of the Jaku

Konbit which is inquired about. He could not believe that we

called him ALL THE WAY from Ottawa. He joked that he

must have done something right in his life to deserve this

honour and wondered why it took us 92 years to do it. We

spoke briefly about his early years and how there were only a

handful of Blacks in Canada as well as his mother being one of the pioneers to come here as a

domestic worker.

He was evidently thrilled and thank me again and again. Kathy, I did mention that I got his number

from you.

He is quite the charming man. I mispronounced his name when I first asked to speak him and he

humorously remarked: 'You make me SIZZLE when you say GRIZZLE`. (It's pronounced GRIZ-

ZEL (smile)).

On another note, my son, Shabaka, was totally taken aback that I would called this stranger out of the

blue to sing him HAPPY BIRTHDAY, but regardless, he stuck it out with his mama and belted the

vocals. It was one of those - 'My mother is soooo embarrassing' moments.

Thanks again - that was fun. - Tarrah

-Stories Between the Generations

THANK

YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION

-Stories Between the Generations

THANK

YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION

We would like to acknowledge: New Horizons for Seniors Program: http://www.rhdcc-hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/community_partnerships/seniors/index.shtml Jaku Konbit: www.jakukonbit.com The Jamaican (Ottawa) Community Association Inc.: www.jamaicanottawaassn.org Black History Ottawa: bhottawa@yahoo.ca Spectrum: Spectrum@storm.ca African Fellowship Volunteers, Elders, Youth and Children