About Us

About us

Established in 2010, Bring On The Sunshine (BOTS) emerged as a grassroots response to anti-Black racism, to address discerned needs within our community. Our founding vision was clear: to unite people, fostering a collective celebration and support for individuals of African descent in Canada. Since our inception, we have dedicated ourselves to empowering and strengthening the African, Black, and Caribbean communities in the Waterloo region, with a specific focus on supporting youth and new immigrants to Canada.

At the core of our mission is the commitment to cultivating leaders and nurturing communities within an ecosystem grounded in mutual respect. Through our impactful programs, we go beyond conventional narratives, shining a spotlight on the profound contributions of Black individuals to world history, transcending the confines of slavery. This intentional approach plays a critical role in guiding youth toward developing a robust sense of identity, heritage, and a deep appreciation for African culture and values.

Our Values

"Umuntu ngubuntu ngabantu…."
I am because we are… A person is a person because of people

Spotlighted by Nelson Mandela, this African value statement means that we cannot exist in our humanity alone. We need each other to be fully human.

Our values include:

Ubuntu | Collaboration | Culture | Storytelling | Listening | Excellence | Respect

Our Mission

Developing leaders and creating communities in an ecosystem of mutual respect.

We thrive on challenging stereotypes surrounding Black identity, promoting diversity of Africa, and reshaping perceptions of what it means to be “African.”

Utilizing the power of arts, projects, and events, we are dedicated to supporting and instigating positive change, striving to eliminate the adverse effects of discrimination.

Our greatest passion lies in making a positive impact on children and youth of African/Black descent. We achieve this by offering a creative and uplifting space for them to explore their identity and heritage through the arts and community engagement.