Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) Celebrates New Era of Support for Black-Led Initiatives Across Canada

Montreal, QC – In a powerful gathering that echoed with hope, vision, and collective determination, members of the Black creative community convened in Montreal to celebrate progress, resilience, and foundational work securing long-term investment in Black futures.

One of the standout voices at the event was Rebecca Darwent, co-founder of the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC), who emphasized the need for lasting structures that support Black professionals beyond the moment.

“It’s incredible to be in a space in Montreal with all these beautiful people who have dreams and hopes and aspirations,” Darwent shared. “A space that is not just here now, but a place where you can apply for funds in 2030, in 2040, in 2050, and beyond.”

Darwent highlighted FFBC’s role in establishing a permanent and empowered presence for Black creatives in Canada, especially in film and graphic sectors. The organization is shifting narratives and creating real access for historically excluded individuals.

“When I started my career in 2015, there were only a handful of Black people in the sector,” she said. “All of us were underestimated in our roles. Many didn’t have the titles, the positions, the power, or the access we deserved to have our dreams and hopes fulfilled.”

Despite Canada’s progressive image, Darwent noted that Black Canadians still face serious inequities. “Canada is often positioned as ‘better’ than the U.S., but all of us in this room know that’s not the case,” she said. “The challenges here are real. The discrimination is real. The underestimation is real.”

What continues to set the community apart is its collective strength and response. “Because of the effort and the way Black communities mobilize—when there’s a call, there’s a response,” she said. “When there’s a need, it’s the collective that comes together. We push. We say, ‘What just happened to my brother, my sister, my neighbor—isn’t okay.’ And we act.”

“This gathering is also a celebration of what we’re achieving together,” she said. “The Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) marked this year’s announcement and celebration of the Black Ideas Grant recipients for 2024/25 taken place in Montreal!  Recipient unveiled and honoured . The Foundation for Black Communities awarded $9.5 million to 161 incredible Black-led, Black-mandated, and Black-serving organizations across Canada. This isn’t just a grant—it’s an investment in our power, our potential, and our future.”

The event served as both a celebration and a recommitment to building a future where Black excellence is supported and sustained. With leaders like Darwent and organizations like FFBC at the forefront, lasting equity for Black creatives is becoming a reality.