Black Legacy and Leadership & The Huddle’s Role in Shaping the Future
As Canada celebrates Black History Month this year, the national theme - Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations”, serves as a powerful reminder that Black excellence is not just a reflection of the past but an ongoing movement that continues to shape our present and future.
This theme calls on us to recognize the achievements of Black Canadians today while honouring the trailblazers actively creating a legacy for future generations.
While Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate this rich legacy, the conversation doesn't end there. On March 6, 2025, The Standard continues the momentum with The Huddle: Legends, Dream Teams, & Superstars, powered by MLSE and NBA Canada. Back by popular demand, this annual sold-out event celebrates Black women leaders who have transcended the ordinary to achieve greatness, breaking barriers and paving the way forward.
Black Legacy in Motion
While Black History Month encourages us to reflect on the past, the 2025 theme reminds us that history is still being made — and more importantly, that Black history is recognized 365 days a year. Across Canada, Black professionals, activists, and entrepreneurs are building legacies that will shape the future.
The Huddle: A Space to Honour the Past and Build the Future
A Gathering of Leaders Who Inspire and Create Change
The Huddle aligns with the theme of Black Legacy and Leadership by recognizing individuals who have:
🔹 Paved the way (LEGENDS) – Such as Dr. Rosemary Sadlier, a leading advocate for Black history in Canada. Rosemary is a renowned diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant, social justice advocate, researcher, writer, and international speaker specializing in Black history, anti-racism, and women's issues.
With a 22-year tenure as President of the Ontario Black History Society, she helped establish February as Black History Month in Canada and August 1st as Emancipation Day.
Dr. Sadlier played a pivotal role in the creation of Lincoln Alexander Day, recognizing another Black legend, and has provided expert input to the UN Rapporteur on Race Relations, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Bi-National Study of the Underground Railroad.
🔹 Worked together to create impact (DREAM TEAMS) – Such as Dr. Renee Raymond, an educator and social justice advocate who has contributed to African Canadian curriculum development, national exhibits, and publications, authoring seven books on African Canadian history.
Dr. Renee Raymond is the Clinical Director & Registered Psychotherapist at ReNu Counselling & Psychotherapy. A dedicated therapist and sports psychology consultant, she has extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through her private practice.
She has worked extensively with high-performance athletes, including Olympic competitors, professional athletes, and dancers, specializing in tailored mental performance strategies to enhance focus, resilience, and overall well-being.
Alongside her clinical expertise, Dr. Raymond is passionate about advancing the mental side of sports performance, collaborating closely with athletes and coaches to foster success. Her credentials include:
- Doctor of Psychology
- Postgraduate Certificate in Sport Psychology
- Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
- Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology & Health Science
🔹 Continue to shine in their fields (SUPERSTARS) – Such as Letecia Rose, who serves as Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer at Fasken. An award-winning equity strategist, Letecia is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces and driving equitable outcomes.
With 17 years of experience spanning sports & entertainment, education, community impact, and social services, she has advised government agencies, corporate leaders, and NGOs on building impactful equity strategies.
A recognized thought leader, Letecia’s values-driven approach — fostering proximity to promote empathy — has earned her numerous accolades, including:
🏆 NBA Inclusion Innovation Award
🏆 WXN Top 100 Leader
🏆 Canada’s Top 10 Diversity & Inclusion Leaders
She also serves on the CAMH Foundation Board, leading EDI strategy development, and continues to champion systemic change through intentional action and authentic engagement.
The Power of Community and Representation in Leadership
Success is not just about talent — it's about having the right network, mentorship, and support system. The Huddle provides a unique space for Black professionals to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.
This movement stands on the foundation laid by trailblazers because:
- Seeing Black leaders in key positions empowers others to pursue leadership roles.
- Representation fosters more diverse and inclusive industries.
- Stronger Black communities are created by fostering lasting professional connections.
Honouring Trailblazers and Continuing Their Legacy
The Huddle is not just about celebrating today’s Black leaders—it’s about recognizing the trailblazers who paved the way. Their courage, resilience, and groundbreaking contributions continue to inspire new generations of changemakers.
Figures like:
Carrie Best – A fearless journalist and activist
Viola Desmond – Whose fight against segregation changed Canadian law
Ferguson Jenkins – Canada’s first Black Hall of Fame baseball player
These pioneers opened doors that many now walk through. Their legacies live on through modern-day leaders like Rosemary Sadlier, whose dedication to advancing Black history education in Canada continues to shape national conversations.
Black History Month reminds us to honour the past, but the work of building Black leadership is a year-round effort. The Huddle extends this mission beyond February, demonstrating that Black Legacy and Leadership is not just a theme — it's a movement.
📅 Date: March 6, 2025 | Doors open at 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Cineplex VIP Toronto - Yonge & Dundas
🎟️ Tickets: SOLD OUT! (Includes food, beverages, guest panel, and a private screening of King Richard)
Thank you for your incredible support. The Huddle continues to be a highly anticipated event, and we can't wait to celebrate Black Legacy and Leadership with you.
Will you be part of the legacy?
Stay connected for future events and opportunities to join this powerful movement.
