The spirit of unity and cultural pride took centre stage at the Celebration of Differences event, held successfully at Scarborough’s Centennial Recreation Centre. Organized by seven not-for-profit organizations—BCS, BCCS, BIES, CCBS, CCIK, PSES, and SA – on 21 September, 2024 (see below for a brief description of these organizations). The evening brought together nearly 200 community members, leaders, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate diversity and collective harmony.
The event began on a harmonious note, as the Canadian and Bangladeshi national anthems were performed, setting the tone for a meaningful evening. Mushtaq Ahmed and Sushoma Saraf from the Canadian Centre for Information and Knowledge (CCIK) served as hosts, skilfully guiding the audience through the programme. Representatives from each of the organizing organizations shared their missions, highlighting their commitment to community service, social justice, and collaboration.
The discussion segment, moderated by Emamul Haque, Executive Director of PACE, engaged participants on themes of pride and identity within their communities. Divided into eight interactive groups, attendees were encouraged to discuss and share aspects of their cultures and contributions to the broader community. The exercise sparked vibrant conversations and reinforced a sense of belonging and shared purpose among participants.
The event’s main discussion panel featured thought-provoking insights from renowned academics: Professor Ahmed Shafiqul Huque of McMaster University, Professor Sadequl Islam of Laurentian University, and Professor Mehnaaz Momen of Texas A&M University.
“If we can foster respect, equality, and compassion within diversity, we can build a harmonious society,” said Professor Ahmed Shafiqul Huque, emphasizing the importance of values that bridge cultural and social divides. Professor Sadequl Islam underscored the role of Bangladeshi expatriates in building meaningful relationships and social capital on a global scale, while Professor Mehnaaz Momen shed light on the underexplored role of technology in resolving generational and cultural challenges, particularly in Western societies.
The open discussion following the panel saw enthusiastic participation from attendees, who posed insightful questions to the speakers, reflecting their investment in the evening’s themes. Adding to the momentum, the youth team from BCS delivered a compelling PowerPoint presentation on anti-racism, highlighting the need for awareness and action. SAWIS (SARO) followed with a call to address pressing social issues, such as affordable housing, childcare, and fair wages.
The programme’s cultural segment delivered a joyful finale, as theatre personality Aruna Haider’s team performed two captivating plays. The performances delighted the audience, providing both entertainment and thoughtful commentary on community life and challenges. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Imam Uddin, President of the Canadian Centre, as guests enjoyed a delicious spread of traditional and multicultural refreshments.
The Celebration of Differences event not only showcased the rich diversity of Toronto’s Bangladeshi and multicultural communities but also served as a platform to encourage collaboration, understanding, and action towards common goals. “The unity and respect we witnessed tonight are the foundation of a stronger community,” said one organizer, expressing hope that this event will inspire future collaborations and initiatives.
As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the Celebration of Differences had successfully fostered a renewed sense of unity, pride, and optimism for a more inclusive future. The organizing organizations reaffirmed their commitment to hosting similar events, ensuring that the celebration of diversity remains a cornerstone of community building in Toronto.
A brief description of each organization
Bangladeshi Canadian Community Services (BCS): is a not-for-profit, charitable, multi-service organization that has been providing services to the local community (Taylor-Massey, Crescent Town, and adjacent neighbourhoods) since 2000. Executive Director: Nasima Akhter, Ph.D.
Bangladesh Centre and Community Services (BCCS): is a not-for-profit, charitable organization that helps newcomers and long-time residents integrate into Canadian society through knowledge, skills, and other support. BCCS is run entirely by volunteers and community partners, with financial support from our donors and government grants for special programmes. Executive Director: Afroza Begum
Bengali Information and Employment Services (BIES): is a not-for-profit Charitable community-based organization working for the community in Taylor-Massey, Crescent Town and Victoria Park village area in the City of Toronto since 2011. General Secretary: Mahtab Uddin, Ph.D.
Canadian Centre for Bangladesh Studies (CCBS): is a not-for-profit organization fosters collaboration between Canadian and Bangladeshi scholars to enhance understanding of Bangladeshi history, culture, and society. Chairperson: Abdul Halim Mia
The Canadian Centre for Information and Knowledge (CCIK): is a community-focused organization that provides educational resources, information, and support to immigrants and marginalized groups in Canada. Its mission is to promote knowledge sharing and enhance access to services that support personal and professional development. President: Imam Uddin
Progressive Action for Community Empowerment (PACE): is a not-for-profit organization; it aims to help and inspire communities to overcome challenges related to social integration, social inclusion, and social and economic prosperity. Executive Director: Emamul Haque
South Asian Women and Immigrants’ Services (SAWIS): formerly known as the South Asian Women’s Rights Organization (SAWRO), is a community-based and community led association of immigrant women living in the neighbourhood of Oakridge and Crescent Town (Danforth Avenue and Victoria Park Avenue). Since being founded by the community’s women in 2007, SAWIS has worked for the empowerment and integration of immigrant women and for the reduction of poverty within the community. Executive Director: Sultana Jahangir
Imam Uddin
Imam Uddin is not only a social service activist, but also a Career Specialist who currently works full-time as an Employment Advisor at TNG Community Services, Employment Ontario. He possesses diverse industry experience, having worked in settlement and employment agencies, international not-for-profit organizations, and the media. Imam's professional expertise includes social service, employment counselling, workshop facilitation, resume critique, research, and community development.
Imam is the founding president and one of the founders of Bengali Information and Employment Services (BIES), a charitable not-for-profit organization in Toronto. Additionally, he serves as the president of the Canadian Centre for Information and Knowledge, a not-for-profit organization funded by the government of Canada and various foundations.
Previously, Imam served as an Outreach Worker at Settlement Assistance and Family Support Services (SAFSS) in Toronto. He dedicated over nine years to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) as a Senior Program Manager for Outreach and Communication. Imam has also authored numerous articles on good governance, settlement, and employment issues, which were published in mainstream newspapers in Canada and Bangladesh. In 2022, Imam was interviewed by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) for his research work. E-mail:imamuddin015@gmail.com
Good work