TMU’s Flourishing Mixer celebrates Black alumni and friends

Laughter and music filled the Sandbox by DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), as people mingled and connected at the second Flourishing Mixer for Black alumni and friends, organized by the university’s Alumni Relations office.

The evening began with powerful speeches from TMU President and Vice-Chancellor Mohamed Lachemi and the inaugural Interim Director of the Black Scholarship Institute Grace-Camille Monroe. They shared insights into the university’s efforts to combat anti-Black racism and support Black scholars, and outlined the ongoing work needed to ensure Black flourishing.

One such effort is the Black Scholarship Institute (BSI). Established in 2023, the BSI works to advance scholarship and research within the Black community. As interim director, Munroe works university-wide to amplify and promote the work of Black scholars and embed Afro-centric learning across disciplines. 

“The Black Scholarship Institute is not just an initiative; it’s a movement,” she said. “It endeavours to nurture Black scholars, support Black students and empower Black communities through transformative research.”

The first Flourishing Mixer was held in 2022, bringing together Black alumni and friends in a celebration of Black excellence. This year, more than 90 attendees joined together — many reuniting for the first time since graduating. DJ Mary B provided music, while Chef Milton Cole from TMU Hospitality Services devised a special menu reflective of his Caribbean roots, including ackee tarts and pineapple-glazed jerk chicken skewers.

As the evening progressed, guests were invited to look out the windows of the Sheldon & Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre and watch as the campus lights were specially set to reflect Pan-African colours. By special arrangement with the TMU Lights program, the street pole lights at Gould and Victoria Streets were lit in red, green and gold, and the Rogers Communications Centre Bridge lights were green and gold. 

Deane Brown, Applied Computer Science ’94, was among the guests. He says the Flourishing Mixer was his first time on campus in a long time.

“To actually be here, to see how much things have expanded and grown, and get a feel for what life at TMU is like now, I am excited,” said Brown. 

Many others like Lauren Scarborough, Occupational Health and Safety ’22, saw the event as a way to network and showcase the talents of the Black community within TMU. 

“There are not many Black people in universities to represent our full diaspora of people within Toronto or the GTA,” she said. “I feel having an event like this is a good way to show that we do have a presence, we do have importance, and we are in the workforce as professionals with education.”

Munroe spoke of events like the Flourishing Mixer as a demonstration of the university’s commitment to amplify and celebrate the work of Black alumni, and to celebrate the work that is being done to create a space at TMU that we can all be proud of.

“The BSI has been a force for change, engaging with the Black community through outreach and consultations,” she said. “The momentum is palpable, and the possibilities are boundless.”