Bring together dozens of BIPOC-led grassroots organizations from across BC and the Yukon, each one driving change in their communities against the odds, and you’ll witness something powerful: a room alive with vision, courage, and ideas that can reshape the future. 

We have been honoured to join DIVERSECity, AMSSA, and an incredible group of these organizations for the official launch of the BUILD (BIPOC Unified Inclusive Leadership Development) Program. This three-year initiative is designed to amplify the vital work these organizations are doing while addressing the structural barriers they face in areas such as funding, system navigation, and sustainability. The event marked the first time participants and service providers came together, opening a space to connect, share stories, and imagine what is possible when we put together our collective strengths. 

Indigenous Elder Stephen (Xem-Tu-Mus) Armstrong from Kwikwetlem First Nation shared the Hul’q’umin’um teaching of Naut’sa Mawt: Working Together as One. He reminded us that the heart of BUILD is about walking forward with one mind and one heart, rooted in collaboration, mutual respect, and the collective wisdom each organization carries. 

Participants highlighted both challenges and hopes.  

They spoke about systemic funding barriers, even when both their reach and impact are undeniable. 

They talked about on the exhausting work of operating without core staff support; and the need for resources that reflect the realities of immigrant and newcomer communities.  

Yet, they also emphasized a deep commitment to partnership:  

“We don’t need to do everything ourselves, and we don’t want to.”  

Many voiced their excitement about joining forces with each other, with companies, and with governments, to expand their reach and deepen their impact. 

The work these organizations are leading is extraordinary: creating culturally safe spaces for families of children with disabilities, guiding newcomers through Canadian systems in decolonized ways, offering food security for African diaspora communities, supporting immigrant and refugee youth in the North to connect and thrive, bringing BIPOC women together to build solidarity, and so much more. Their impact spans emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being, addressing needs that are too often overlooked elsewhere. 

We are proud to have been asked to work with DIVERSECity in delivering this program. Our role is to provide high-quality, practical training in governance, leadership, fund development, and organizational capacity—areas that strengthen and sustain organizations. 

With one mind and one heart, rooted in collaboration, mutual respect, and the collective wisdom each organization brings to the table, our goal is to “build” on the knowledge, connections, and strengths already within these communities—so their impact continues to grow and thrive, creating the brightest future for those they serve. 

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BUILD Cohort: Mainland Community Services, OCCA Communities Association, Beyond Borders Youth Network, BIPOC Women’s Society, Kingdom Acts Foundation, Great Zimbabwe Cultural Society of BC and Yukon, ACT by Vidal, Khaliyl’s Kids Family Care Foundation, Rise Above Reality Expectations, Senses and Me, International Refugees Support Foundation, BC Bereavement Helpline, Parents Against Racism Alliance, Community Development Society of Canada, Griottes Polyglottes