By Shannon Delmarco
Black History Month was celebrated in a lively and inspiring way on Friday, February 20th at the Carmine Stefano Community Centre, as Youth Now On Track Services (YNOT) hosted its gathering titled “Learning from our Past, as We Shape our Future.”
The evening brought together community leaders, residents, youth, and supporters for a celebration filled with music, reflection, and cultural pride. From the moment guests arrived, there was excitement in the room as people gathered to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.
Pastor Francis helped capture the spirit of the evening when he reminded the audience that “to spell community is incomplete without unity.” The message resonated throughout the celebration as neighbours, families, and local leaders came together to share in a positive and uplifting event.
Several community leaders were also present to show their support, including Toronto Councillor Anthony Perruzza of Ward 7 and Humber River–Black Creek MPP Tom Rakocevic. Their attendance highlighted the importance of community organizations like YNOT that continue to create opportunities for young people while strengthening connections across the neighbourhood.
Toronto Police Service 31 Division Superintendent Jack Gurr also addressed those in attendance and spoke about the importance of mentorship and opportunity for youth. “When we invest in young people—when we give them mentorship, opportunity and belief—we change trajectories,” he said. “That is real community safety.”
The evening also featured lively performances that kept the audience engaged. One of the highlights was the performance by the YNOT Elite Superstar Dancers, whose energy and enthusiasm brought the room to life and earned loud applause from the crowd.
Organizers thanked the many supporters who helped make the celebration possible, including Sergeant Gianni Filippin, Officer Addo Leo, Sergeant Allistair James, Amy Calderan and Albert Meneses, representing MP Judy Sgro, Mamadou Bah of LiUNA Local 506, and dedicated volunteers.
Local businesses also stepped forward to support the afternoon . Sponsors included Starbucks, Tim Hortons, The Parrot Nest Family Restaurant, Cops Donuts, Naija Eatery, Freshslice Pizza on Humber College Boulevard, Pizzaiolo, and Caribbean Jerk Queen.
By the end of the afternoon, it was clear the celebration was about more than recognizing history. It was also about building pride, strengthening community ties, and inspiring young people to continue shaping the future of the Emery community.