Black Jewel
Welcome to Black Jewel Community for Arts and Culture
Mission Statement
Black Jewel’s mission is to celebrate and advance Black culture by providing a dynamic, culturally sustainable community space that nurtures creativity, supports wellness, and expands access to essential resources. We envision empowering individuals to thrive, preserve their cultural heritage, and strengthen a more connected, inspired, and resilient Black community.
About Us
Black Jewel is black led and black serving nonprofit organization. According to the 2016 Census, more than 51,000 Black residents call Durham Region home—one of the largest Black communities in the Greater Toronto Area.
Embracing our culture is a source of strength, resilience. and empowerment for individuals and our community at large. Gaining a deeper understanding of our heritage and culture shapes our identity and enables us to challenge stereotypes, misconceptions and racism. We must advocate for spaces that stimulate our sense of belonging and pride within the Black Community.
Our culture is our bridge from the past to the present. It connects us, sustains us, and strengthens the shared values crucial to our resilience and empowerment. We invite you to journey with us as we explore initiatives and establish programming that is dedicated to building a thriving community with a shared vision, trust and with open communication. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of our culture continues to inspire generations as we take an active role in shaping our environment and our future.
The Mahogany Heritage and Cultural Center
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
— Ecclesiastes 3:1
Black Jewel is proud to introduce the Mahogany Heritage and Cultural Center. As we advance into this new season our regional Black communities can look forward to vibrant cultural space where our heritage is honoured and preserved, our culture is celebrated and we can confidentially share the stories that connect the generations.
We are honoured to be part of the Mahogany Rising campaign and as the team looks ahead, they invite our community members to help shape the next chapter. Stay connected with Black Jewel for updates on the Mahogany Heritage and Cultural Center at tmhcc.ca.
Coming in 2027
Undeniable Studios, Media With Mo and Black Jewel present a series of cultural film events. The events are to be hosted at the Ajax Centre for the Arts on January 30 , February 24 and March 31,, 2026. Our special guests will include filmmakers and community leaders ready to facilitate discussion and build community engagement as we reflect on the films and share perspectives.
More details to follow. Early bird tickets start at $29.00.
Black Jewel Community Membership Plan
Our mission is to grow our community into a vibrant resilient supportive network where everyone can thrive. Get involved—let’s build a stronger, more connected community together.
$20
Black Jewel Collection
Annual Membership Fee
The Black Jewel Collection is a book exchange library of Afrocentric books curated for early readers and their family. Sign up and receive a tote bag for the kids to use when they exchange books. The designed to promote access to stories that reflect cultural identity and an array of cultural experiences, values and heritage.
Volunteers Needed
We are seeking volunteers to support our social media and our programs. If you are interested please send us and email at info@blackjewel.ca.
Engage with us as we nurture you in our community workshops. Stay tuned for our next series of community workshops coming in 2027.
Connect with Us Today!
Click on the link below and give us your feedback (1min)
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3TQ7B7F
Whether you have ideas to share, questions to ask, or want to get involved, we want to hear from you! Reach out to us at info@blackjewel.ca and let's start a conversation about how we can collaborate to make a meaningful impact.
Alternatively, you can use the convenient form below to get in touch with our team.
