Upcoming Events

Invitation to THRIVE 2025 event on May 31 at Wildseed Centre from 1-4PM, featuring resources for Black immigrants and refugees with disabilities in Canada. Decorated with yellow and orange flowers, includes RSVP link and sponsor logos.
Join us!

THRIVE 2025: From Arrival to Belonging

A Roadmap for Black Immigrants and Refugees with Disabilities

Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Wildseed Centre for Arts and Activism

About THRIVE 2025
The path from being a newcomer to feeling truly at home involves many steps—especially when navigating life with a disability. In proud partnership with SMILE Canada, this event brings together all the resources you need in one welcoming space.

What to Expect at THRIVE 2025:
✅ Resource tables staffed by knowledgeable professionals ready to answer your specific questions
✅ A powerful panel discussion featuring Black immigrants with disabilities sharing their lived experiences
✅ Information session on vital topics like housing rights, employment accommodations, healthcare access, education supports, and more
✅ Networking opportunities with fellow community members and supportive service providers
✅ Refreshments and a welcoming, accessible environment for all attendees

Whether you're seeking language training, employment opportunities, accessible housing, healthcare connections, or simply a community that understands your journey—THRIVE 2025 is your starting point for moving from simply surviving to genuinely thriving in Canada.

All services and discussions will focus on the unique intersection of disability, immigration experience, and Black identity—because your full story matters.
ASL and Interpretation services available upon request.
Visit our event website to learn more:
🔗 Register Here

Promotional image for Ase Community Foundation's Annual General Meeting. The top shows a person in a wheelchair using a laptop while meeting with someone across a table. Below features the foundation's logo and event details: June 3rd, 2025, 5PM-6:30PM EST, held virtually via Zoom. Includes a QR code for registration, a register link, and the foundation's website. Green and gold waves frame the design, highlighting the organization's focus on Black Canadians with disabilities.
Join us!

Annual General Meeting


Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Virtually through Zoom

Ase Community is pleased to hold its 5th Annual General Meeting. Please save this date
More details to come.

ASL and Interpretation services available upon request. Visit our event website to learn more:
🔗 Register Here

Past Events

Image of NBDC launch poster showing hands joined together with ITS HERE!in a yellow starburst. The National Black Disability Coalition announces its official launch event on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5:30-7:00 PM EST. This online Zoom event marks Canada's first national coalition centering Black-disabled leadership, knowledge, and advocacy. Registration available at lu.ma/fkqzy7lx or via QR code. Supported by Canada and Ase Community Foundation.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.
Join us!

National Black Disability Coalition Launch Event

Everyone is invited to the official launch of the National Black Disability Coalition.

A national initiative led by the ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities.

Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
🎉 Opening Reception: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
💻 Zoom Program: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

About the Coalition
The National Black Disability Coalition is a cross-sectoral network of Black-disabled leaders, advocates, researchers, entrepreneurs, youth, and community members committed to advancing the engagement and leadership of Black people with disabilities across Canada. This initiative brings together voices nationwide to identify systemic gaps, strengthen leadership, and drive transformative change.

What to Expect at the Launch
✅ An overview of the Coalition’s purpose, goals, structure, and mandate
✅ An opportunity to meet the Executive Committee and Affinity Group Leads, who will help guide the Coalition’s direction and priorities
✅ Launch of membership calls and opportunities on how to get involved in future events, working groups, and leadership opportunities
✅ Space to network and ask questions, share insights, and celebrate this milestone moment in our community

This event marks the beginning of a national effort to center Black-disabled experiences and leadership. We welcome all who are interested in participating in this important and timely work.
Visit our website to learn more:
🔗 Register Here

Join us!

Consultation: Anti-Black Racism, Disability & Education—Lived Experiences of Black Children and Families

Join us for a vital community consultation centering the voices of Black parents, caregivers, and guardians of children with disabilities. This session will explore the impact of anti-Black racism within the education system—particularly through the lens of the IEP process, school discipline, support systems, accommodations, access to technology, and classroom inclusion.

We are gathering stories, insights, and real experiences to understand how Black children with disabilities are being supported—or not—across schools in our communities. Your voice matters. Help us shape better policies, accountability, and accessible education for every Black child.

Who should attend:
✅ Black parents, caregivers, and guardians of children with disabilities
✅ Advocates and community organizers
✅ Educators and support workers invested in anti-racist and inclusive practices
✅ Space to network and ask questions, share insights, and celebrate this milestone moment in our community

Key Topics:
✅ IEP (Individualized Education Plan) experiences
✅ Discipline and school safety
✅ Access to accommodations and assistive tech
✅ Anti-Black racism and ableism in schools
✅ Barriers to inclusion and learning

Let’s name the gaps—and imagine better together.
HONORARIUMS PROVIDED

Bright green promotional poster for 'Get Your Benefits Session 2' featuring a circular photo of speaker Liza Arnason wearing glasses and a patterned top. The poster explains: 'This session will provide essential guidance on disability rights, financial supports, and available benefits. We will break down the process, answer your questions, and help you maximize the resources you deserve. Whether you're applying for the first time or need clarity, this webinar is for you.' The event is scheduled for April 23rd, 6PM-8PM, and includes a QR code and register now button.
Join us!

Get Your Benefits Session 2

✨ You Asked, and We Listened!

✨ After our past events, many of you wanted more guidance on accessing the benefits you deserve. We're excited to bring you "Get Your Benefit"—a dedicated session to help Black Canadians with disabilities navigate financial supports and resources.

🌟 Join us as we break down the process, answer your questions, and connect you with experts who can help you maximize your benefits. Whether you're applying for the first time or need clarity on what’s available, this session is for you!
🔗 Don't miss out

Lunch and Learn poster with a geometric design in burgundy, teal, and gold colors. Features logos from ASE Community Foundation and Elections Canada. The poster describes 'A Public information session on registering and voting at a public election' scheduled for April 4th, 2025, 12PM-1PM. Includes a QR code and 'Register Now' button for easy registration.
Join us!

LUNCH AND LEARN: Elections Information Session

✨ Join Us for a Lunch & Learn: Elections Information Session

✨ Are you ready for the upcoming elections? We’re here to help! Join us for a Lunch & Learn Elections Information Session designed to provide you with everything you need to know before you cast your vote.

✨ This interactive session is a great way to prepare before attending our Voting Workshop on April 10th. Bring your questions and get the clarity you need on key election topics, including:
🌟 Where to find your polling location
🌟 Required identification and documents
🌟 How to register and update your voter information
🌟 Answers to common voting procedure questions

🌟 Our team will be available to guide you through the process and address any concerns, ensuring that you’re confident and informed when it’s time to vote.
🌟 This event is open to the public, so feel free to share with friends and family.
🔗 We look forward to seeing you there!

Green promotional poster for the National Black Disability Coalition Info Session featuring the Canada and ASE Community Foundation logos. The poster includes an image of people collaboratively working on a project, event details of Tuesday, 5PM-6PM on April 1, 2025, and a description that reads 'Learn about the coalition's vision, goals, and work elevating Black disabled voices.' A QR code and registration button are prominently displayed.
Join us!

Information Session on the National Black Disability Coalition (NBDC)

✨ The ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is excited to invite you to an information session on the National Black Disability Coalition (NBDC) — the first of its kind in Canada. This session is your opportunity to learn about the vision, goals, and upcoming work of the coalition dedicated to centering the voices, leadership, and needs of Black disabled people across the country.

✨ Whether you’re a community member, service provider, researcher, advocate, or simply curious about how to get involved, this session will introduce you to the purpose and potential of the NBDC — and how you can be a part of shaping it.

🌟 Accessibility: ASL interpretation for those that ask for it in the registration form and live captioning will be provided. Please indicate any additional access needs in the registration form.
🔗 Register now and be part of building a future that centers Black disability justice.

A promotional poster for 'The REAL Knowledge Series' by Ase Community Foundation. The poster features a gold/olive background with the foundation's logo at the top (showing a stylized tree or branch symbol), along with website information (asecommunityfoundation.com). The bottom half shows an open book with a glowing light bulb hovering above it, symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment.
Join us!

Join the REAL Knowledge Series – Spring 2025 Cohort!

✨ The REAL (Restorative Education and Awareness Learning) Program is back with a new cohort, offering transformative learning experiences rooted in intersectionality, self-advocacy, and leadership.

✨ Through interactive sessions, community-led discussions, and expert guidance, participants will gain skills in:
🌟 Self-Advocacy & Confidence Building
🌟 Career & Entrepreneurship Readiness
🌟 Public Speaking & Effective Communication
🌟 Networking, Relationship Building & Mentorship
🌟 Black Leadership

🌟 This is more than just a certificate program—it’s a movement to dismantle ableism, anti-Black racism, and gender-based violence through knowledge and collective action.
🔗 Register Now and be part of this powerful learning journey!

An informational poster titled 'VOTING AT A FEDERAL ELECTION' by Ase Community Foundation. The design features geometric color blocks in burgundy, teal, and gold. The poster provides details about a virtual event on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, from 12:00pm-1:30pm (EST) via Zoom, includes a QR code for registration(https://lu.ma/t8bf6avi), and has the Elections Canada logo at the bottom. The text explains that participants will learn about voter registration, the voting process, and overcoming barriers to voting.
Join us!

Working at a Federal Election

✨ Paid Work Opportunity: Elections Canada Workshop
✨ Join us for a FREE workshop on Tuesday, February 13th, 2025, from 12 PM to 1:30 PM, and discover how you can be part of the upcoming elections—with paid work opportunities!
✨ This session will provide insights into the roles available at Elections Canada, and how we can ensure that Black individuals with disabilities are represented as election workers. Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable skills and make a positive impact in your community.
🧠 What to expect:

🌟 Learn about election worker opportunities and responsibilities
🌟 Understand how to represent Black individuals with disabilities in the election workforce
🌟 Explore paid work opportunities with Elections Canada


🌟 Be part of shaping a more inclusive election process! Register Now!

A promotional poster for a free workshop titled 'Dreamboarding: Creating Through Challenges and Stigma,' hosted by Ase Community Foundation. The event will be held on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (EST) virtually on Zoom. Key themes include Future, Plan, Vision, Mindset, and Realize. For more details, visit asecommunityfoundation.com.
Join us!

Understanding Disability: Why Diagnosis Matters

✨ Breaking Down Barriers: Accessing the Support, You Deserve
✨ As Black individuals, we face enough challenges—another label might feel overwhelming. But understanding the importance of early diagnosis can open doors to benefits, credits, and grants that often go unclaimed.
🧠 Join us for an open and empowering discussion on:

🌟 Disability labels and what they mean.
🌟 Why early diagnosis matters.
🌟 Unlocking the full benefits and rights available to you.

🌟 Let’s take the steps toward the support we deserve. Register Now!

A promotional poster for a free workshop titled 'Dreamboarding: Creating Through Challenges and Stigma,' hosted by Ase Community Foundation. The event will be held on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (EST) virtually on Zoom. Key themes include Future, Plan, Vision, Mindset, and Realize. For more details, visit asecommunityfoundation.com.
Join us!

Untapped Talent Think Tank

✨ Ase Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is hosting the first Untapped Talent: Black Entrepreneurs with Disabilities THINK TANK Accessing the Support, You Deserve
🎉 Bonus: All participants will receive a $100 honorarium! 💵

🌟 Network and share resources
🌟 Exploring funding barriers and solutions
🌟 Gaining insights from our research paper: "Redefining the Entrepreneurial Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities for Black Canadians with Disabilities."


🌟 Don’t miss out! Click the link in our bio to register.Register Now!

A promotional poster for a free workshop titled 'Dreamboarding: Creating Through Challenges and Stigma,' hosted by Ase Community Foundation. The event will be held on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (EST) virtually on Zoom. Key themes include Future, Plan, Vision, Mindset, and Realize. For more details, visit asecommunityfoundation.com.
Join us!

Dreamboarding: Start 2025 with Courage and Purpose

✨ Ground yourself in your values and set a mindful tone for 2025 at this 1 hour and 30-minute workshop, tailored for Black individuals with disabilities. Whether you’re creating a vision board for the first time or refining one, this event will help you align your aspirations with actionable steps.
✨ The “Start 2025 with Courage and Purpose” dream board event is designed to empower Black persons with disabilities to reflect on their aspirations, set clear goals, and build the courage to take purposeful action in the new year. This interactive session will provide tools, resources, and a supportive space to create vision boards, set SMART goals, and address challenges unique to the community. Participants will leave with inspiration, actionable plans, and the motivation to embrace 2025 with confidence and resilience.
🧠 What you’ll experience:

🌟 Guided Brainstorming (45 minutes): Reflect on your values and explore how they shape your vision.
🌟 Vision Board Creation or Refinement: Learn the purpose of vision boards and use the time to build or enhance yours.
🌟 SMART Goal-Setting (20 minutes): Create actionable, realistic steps for achieving your goals.
🌟 Discussion & Resources (25 minutes): Explore challenges and access helpful tools and support.

🎁 Bonus: Stand a chance to win a FREE brunch giveaway!
🗓 Date:️ Saturday, January 18th 2025.
⏰ Time: 11:00AM - 12:30PM
📍 Location: Virtually through zoom

🌟 Let’s start the year with purpose. Register Now!

Flyer for the 4th Annual Townhall: Voices of Blackness and Disability, with a theme 'Beyond Labels: Real Stories. Real Choices. Real Connections.' Event is virtual on Zoom, Saturday, December 7th, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM EST. Includes a QR code for registration
Join us!

December TownHall: Beyond Labels: Real Stories. Real Choices. Real Connections.

✨ The Ase Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is the only national Black and disability-led organization. We are thrilled to host our 4th annual Town Hall, Voices of Blackness and Disability.
🧠 You are invited to join this important conversation, and we are honored to invite you to this transformative event. The Town Hall is Canada’s only national platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black Persons with Disabilities. It’s a space to share experiences, build community, and propose solutions to create real, lasting change.

🌟 Listen to impactful stories from community members and expert panelists.
🌟 Discover resources, insights, and guidance for self-advocacy.
🌟 Engage in discussions that challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.
🌟 Connect with a supportive network committed to amplifying diverse disability experiences.

Join our lineup of thought leaders and advocates who will share their experiences and expertise. Topics include accessing accommodations, overcoming systemic challenges, and promoting visibility.
$25 Gift Card Honorarium available for the first 100 people who register.
*Must be a Black Individual with Disability*

❓ Why Attend?
This is your opportunity to network, share your experiences and expertise, and be in a space “for us, and by us!”
Interactive Breakout Rooms

Personal Journeys and Testimonials for Success: Share and hear stories of resilience and empowerment.
Navigating and Challenging Labels in Employment, Education, and Entrepreneurship: Discuss strategies for breaking down barriers and creating opportunities.
Accessing and Applying for Disability Benefits, Credits, and Resources: Learn how to navigate systems and secure essential support.

Reserve Your Spot Today! Registration is free, but space is limited.
We look forward to welcoming you!

Flyer for an event titled
Join us!

Dementia in the Black Community

✨ Join Us for an Important Virtual Discussion: Dementia in the Black Community
🧠 Dementia is a growing concern, especially in our community. We invite you to be part of a crucial virtual conversation addressing the impact of dementia on the Black community. This event will bring together experts, community leaders, and individuals with lived experiences to discuss research findings, share personal stories, and explore available resources and support systems.

🔑 Event Highlights:
💬 Panel Discussion: Engage with experts from the Alzheimer Society of Canada, community leaders and individuals affected by dementia.
📊 Research Presentation: Discover the latest findings from Doctor Ingrid Waldron that focuses on the intersection of dementia and the Black community.
❓Q&A Session: Have your questions answered by our panel of experts.

NOTE: If you require any accommodations or accessibility, please fill this form to submit a request.

Sitting in Limbo: Exploring the Employment Challenges Faced by Black Individuals with Disabilities,' organized by ASE Community Foundation. The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 24th, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The flyer features an image of a Black man wearing a striped shirt, resting his chin on his hand and looking thoughtfully into the distance. The background is primarily black with white and yellow accents. The ASE Community Foundation logo is in the top right corner, and the flyer notes that the event will be held virtually via Zoom.
Join us!

Sitting in Limbo

✨ Join Us for an Important Virtual Discussion: Dementia in the Black Community
🧠 Sitting in Limbo' is a crucial event dedicated to exploring the employment challenges faced by Black individuals with disabilities. This event aims to shed light on the precarious nature of contract and part-time work, as well as the broader issue of underemployment within this community. Through expert insights, personal stories, and practical strategies, we aim to create a space for meaningful discussion and actionable solutions. 🌟

🔑 Why Attend?
🔍 Understand the systemic barriers and challenges faced by Black people with disabilities in the workforce.
📚 Learn from experts and peers about effective strategies and resources to navigate employment issues.
🤝 Connect with others who share similar experiences and build a network of support.
​🗣️ Contribute your voice to the ongoing dialogue about improving employment conditions and policies.

Note: If you require any accommodations or accessibility services, please let us know.

Flyer for the Black Student Success Summit hosted by Ase Community Foundation. The event, titled 'Future Forward: Empowering Black Youth,' is scheduled for August 29th, 2024, from 1 pm to 5 pm EST and will be held virtually on Zoom. The flyer features illustrations of six diverse and smiling Black youth, with one of them wearing a hijab. There is a QR code in the top left corner, and the Ase Community Foundation logo in the top right corner.
Join us!

4th Annual Black Students Success Summit

Join the ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities for our 4th Annual Black Students Success Summit, an empowering event dedicated to supporting Black youth for success in collegiate and professional environments.
What to Expect:
Expert and student led sessions on navigating white spaces while staying authentic
Community Building and professional networking
Personal Stories and empowerment
Giveaways and interactive activities

NOTE: If you require any accommodations or accessibility, please fill this form to submit a request.

Join us!

THRIVE 2024 Knowledge Series: Entrepreneurship, Education and Employment.

At THRIVE 2024, you will gain essential knowledge on successfully settling into Canadian society, join discussions on entrepreneurship tailored for Black refugee and immigrant youth, including those with disabilities, and understand the intricacies of navigating the Canadian educational system.
Here's What to Expect:
Valuable resources
Networking opportunities
Panel discussions
Fireside chat
In-person Townhall Discussion
Light dinner and beverages

Join Us at Wildseed Centre for Art and Activism

Incentive: Attendees will receive a $100 honoraria for participating in the in-person town hall and $25 for virtual attendance. Spots are limited!

Join us here!

Ase Community Foundation | Annual General Meeting

Welcome to our annual general meeting! Join us for a virtual gathering where we will discuss the achievements of the past year and our goals for the future. This event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow members of our community, share ideas, and provide feedback. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the foundation, we look forward to having you with us. Don't miss out on this chance to be part of shaping the future of our organization! Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the foundation, we look forward to having you with us.

Don't miss out on this chance to be part of shaping the future of our organization!

Register Now!

Townhall: Advancing your Career and Business | Blackness and Disability 2024

Join us for an online town hall event focused on advancing your career and business within the context of Blackness and Disability. This event aims to provide valuable insights, strategies, and networking opportunities to help you thrive professionally. Don't miss the chance to connect with industry leaders, gain knowledge, and foster meaningful relationships. Let's learn and share our talents and strategies for success!

Register now to secure your spot.

Register Now!

It's Taboo - Black culture, faith and disability

Through engaging discussions, personal stories, and interactive activities, we will delve into the unique experiences and perspectives of individuals who navigate the intersection of Black culture, faith, and disability. Our diverse panel of speakers will share their insights, challenges, and triumphs, offering a deeper understanding of these often-taboo topics.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Register Now!

Black Youth Diversity Learners Workshop

Join us on Nov 22nd, 2023, 7:00-8:30 pm EST for an empowering workshop with Black psychologists Cecelia Arscott and Fiana Andrews! Gain insights into invisible disabilities, learn about the testing process, and understand your rights as a parent or caregiver.

Don't miss this FREE virtual event!

Register Here

Black Youth Diverse Learners Project

Join us on Wednesday, November 29th, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (EST) at Sandbox Studios (Garage), located at 119 John St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 1H7, as we bring together Black youth, parents, and the community to celebrate our accomplishments and learn about an exciting new project. Indulge in delicious cuisine provided by My Taste of Africa Catering and enjoy a showcase of remarkable Black talent. Don't miss this empowering and uplifting event!

Register Now!

Black Student Success Summit

This AGM will be an opportunity to learn about ASE Community's mission and journey, how to get involved and partner with us, our 2023 initiatives, and meet our Board of Directors!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Register Now

Annual General Meeting

This AGM will be an opportunity to learn about ASE Community's mission and journey, how to get involved and partner with us, our 2023 initiatives, and meet our Board of Directors!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Past Events

Find Out More

Town Hall: Voices of Blackness and Disability

ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is pleased to host our second annual Town Hall: Voices of Blackness and Disability

January 14, 2023 | 11am - 2pm EST

This annual Town Hall is open to Black people with disabilities across Canada.

This is a fully accessible, virtual event with prizes and gift cards for participants!

We also welcome parents and caregivers of Black people with disabilities to attend, however space is limited.

We invite you to come and share your experiences and contribute to informing policies, programs, and structural change.

Find Out More

The REAL Knowledge Series | Intersectionality and Allyship

Moving away from performative ally ship and #hashtags to authentic change

Thursday, January 19, 2023 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm(EST) | Virtual


“There is no thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives." - Audre Lorde, 1982 "Learning from the 60s"

This REAL Knowledge Series session will:

1. Discuss the importance of including intersectional identities in mainstream disability discussions.
2. Define intersectionality
3. Discuss moving away from performative allyship and "hashtags", towards authentic dialogues and tangible strategies.


Join us at the ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities, for a lively and unapologetic discussion and learning experience.

Everyone is welcome! Kimberle Crenshaw coined the term "intersectionality"; the study of overlapping or intersecting social identities and related systems of oppression, domination, or discrimination.

Find Out More

Information Sessions

ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is pleased to host our second annual Town Hall: Voices of Blackness and Disability

Thursday Mar 10, 2022 | 5 - 6 PM (EST)

Saturday Mar 19, 2022 | 1 - 2 PM (EST)

Join us to learn more about our Capacity Building Research Project and how to get involved with our survey, focus groups, and 1-on-1 interviews!

Find Out More

Town Hall Series

Mar. 22, 2022 | 12:00 - 3:00 PM (EST)


We are holding a series of Town Hall open forums for community members to share experiences! Our next town hall is for Community Stakeholders and Allies is Mar. 22!

Find Out More

Real Talk with Realize: Blackness and Disability

Feb. 28, 2022 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

A panel discussion about the intersection of Blackness and disability and our role in dismantling anti-Black racism, ableism, and filling gaps in service.