Maple News reports that February, observed as Black History Month, offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the remarkable contributions made by Black Canadians to Canada’s social, cultural, and economic fabric. According to the 2021 census, approximately 1.44 million Black Canadians reside in the country, with heritage roots spanning nations such as Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, among others.
Black immigrants have played, and continue to play, a pivotal role in shaping Canadian society. From political offices and architecture to global sports and humanitarian initiatives, their achievements underscore a broader narrative of excellence, resilience, and innovation.
One leading figure is Nigerian-born Canadian architect Samuel Oghalé Oboh. Having immigrated to Canada in 2003 at the age of 33, Oboh has built an impressive international career. He made history as the first Canadian of African descent elected President of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. A former Vice President of architecture at the Fortune 500 firm AECOM, Oboh was also inducted into the American Institute of Architects’ College of Fellows — an honor reserved for only 3% of architects worldwide. His diplomatic contributions are also noteworthy, as he currently serves as the Consul for the Republic of Botswana in Canada.
Another standout figure is Alphonso Davies, a Ghanaian Canadian soccer star who has transformed the global perception of Canadian athletics. Born in a refugee camp in Ghana to Liberian parents, Davies immigrated to Edmonton, Alberta, at age five. By 2017, he became the youngest player in history to represent and score for the Canadian national soccer team. In 2022, he made headlines again by scoring Canada’s first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup.
Beyond sports, Davies has become an influential humanitarian. He broke ground as the first footballer and Canadian to serve as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), advocating for displaced populations around the world.
These individuals are just two among countless Black immigrants whose ambition and dedication continue to enrich Canada. As Black History Month reminds us, their stories are central to the nation’s identity—not just in February, but all year round.