CommunityUpdate
News, milestones, and what’s coming next from ABC
A Message from Our CEO
Dear Community,
This has been a season of growth, recognition, and community for Aurora Black Community Inc. As we step deeper into the second half of 2026, I am proud to share the milestones we have reached together and excited about what lies ahead.
We are a small organization with a big heart and an even bigger mission. Everything we do—every program, every partnership, and every event—is driven by our belief that meaningful change happens through authentic collaboration with like-minded people who are genuinely committed to helping everyone thrive. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
— Phiona Durrant, CEO · Aurora Black Community Inc.
Leadership Announcements
Welcome to Our New Leadership Team
Aurora Black Community Inc. is proud to formally announce two significant leadership appointments for 2026.
Phiona Durrant has been selected as Chief Executive Officer of Aurora Black Community Inc., bringing her extensive background in community development, consulting, and advocacy to the role. Under her leadership, ABC has expanded its programming, deepened its partnerships, and secured meaningful funding for the community.
Bobbie Marshall joins as the incoming President of the Board of Directors. Bobbie brings dedication, vision, and a deep commitment to the mission of ABC. Please join us in congratulating both on these well-deserved appointments.
New Board Members — 2026
Lorianne Zwicker
Lorianne is the first female Deputy Fire Chief at Central York Fire Services and was named Fire Chief of the Year by the Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association. She brings deep expertise in community risk, public relations, and equity-centred leadership to the ABC board.
Ibrahim Njingun
Ibrahim Njingun joins ABC as Treasurer and Board Member for 2026. His financial expertise, community commitment, and leadership are a tremendous asset as ABC continues to grow its programs and partnerships across York Region.
Grant Recognition
ABC Selected for the Black Ideas Grant (B.I.G.)
Aurora Black Community Inc. is honoured to have been selected as a recipient of the Black Ideas Grant from the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) — Canada’s first philanthropic foundation dedicated exclusively to Black-led, Black-mandated, and Black-serving organizations across the country.
ABC was selected from over one thousand applicants across Canada — a testament to the strength of our programming and the trust our community has placed in us. This funding directly supports our ability to continue delivering free, accessible, and culturally responsive services to Black and Biracial communities in York Region.
We are deeply grateful to FFBC for believing in the work we do and for centering the voices and solutions of Black communities in how funding decisions are made. Learn more at forblack.ca
Partnership Spotlight
ABC Joins the Youth Thrive Hub at Rose of Sharon
Aurora Black Community is proud to be a founding partner of the Youth Thrive Community Hub, launched at Rose of Sharon Services for Young Mothers in Newmarket, made possible by a $100,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation Seed Grant.
The Hub brings together Rose of Sharon, Aurora Black Community Association, Women’s Support Network of York Region, and BridgeNorth to deliver 60 culturally responsive workshops over ten months for at-risk youth aged 14 to 29. Workshops focus on leadership development, emotional resilience, gender-based violence prevention, and human trafficking awareness — with free onsite childminding, transportation assistance, and healthy snacks. The program is expected to engage approximately 130 youth directly.
Program Spotlight
Over 18 Youth Complete the I Can Swim Program
We are so proud to congratulate the students who successfully completed ABC’s Breaking Barriers I Can Swim Program, a milestone moment for our community and for water safety across York Region.
Over 18 participants completed the program at no cost, gaining a life-changing skill set in a safe, supported, and culturally affirming environment. For Black communities who face documented and disproportionate barriers to swimming and aquatic programming, this represents access, equity, and belonging.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Town of Aurora for their generous support, and a special thank you to Hailey Jones for her outstanding dedication in making this a truly successful experience for every young person who participated.
Community Recognition
Chief Paulo Da Silva
Aurora Black Community extends warm congratulations to Chief Paulo Da Silva, sworn in as Chief of York Regional Police on June 29, 2026. Chief Da Silva brings over 31 years of policing experience and a strong record of community-focused leadership. We look forward to a continued partnership in building safer, more inclusive communities across York Region.
Upcoming Events
Mark Your Calendar
Back to School Sports Day
ABC’s annual celebration as youth head back to the classroom. Details to follow — stay connected!
Rising Leaders Build Forward — July Sessions
Inaugural summer program for Black and Biracial youth ages 7–15. Mon · Wed · Fri, 10 AM–2 PM at Rose of Sharon, Newmarket.
Rising Leaders Build Forward — August Sessions
Two more weeks of leadership, creativity, and community. Registration still open — contact us today.
Black History Gala 2027
ABC’s signature annual gala. Date and details to be announced. Watch our channels for updates.
Stay Connected with ABC
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