Honouring Black brilliance – from Iman Elzinie, co-lead BERG

For me, celebrating Black History Month is significant because it’s a time to intentionally pause and recognize stories that haven’t always been centered or told in full. Growing up, I didn’t always see Black excellence reflected in my textbooks or in leadership spaces. A lot of what I learned about Black history came from family conversations — stories about resilience, about working twice as hard, and about taking the less desired jobs my mom and grandmother worked to make a living. I also think about the Caribbean cooking my mom and grandma made for us — meals that brought comfort, pride, and a sense of home no matter what was going on around us. They did what they had to do to create opportunities for the next generation. That’s the history I carry with me.

Black culture has always had the potential to be widely embraced, but sometimes it feels like it’s something we keep to ourselves — something celebrated quietly within our own communities. Black History Month creates space to bring that culture forward and say, “This belongs here too.”

I saw that firsthand when we introduced Black History Month meals at Holland Bloorview. The response was amazing. You wouldn’t have expected the patties to be sold out before 11 a.m. every day, or for the plantain fritters to be such a hit. It wasn’t just about the food being popular — it was about visibility. It showed that our culture is not only welcome, but appreciated. That our meals are just as delicious, just as worthy of being highlighted, and can be embraced by clients, families, and staff alike (and yes, even be profitable for Sodexo).

More importantly, for Black clients and families, seeing familiar foods in the café can bring a small but meaningful sense of comfort and recognition while navigating what can be a difficult hospital experience. That matters.

To me, Black History Month is about creating those moments — where culture is seen, valued, and shared openly. It’s about honoring the sacrifices of the generations before us, while making sure the next generation sees themselves reflected in everyday spaces, including here at HB.

Iman Elzinie, divisional coordinator, senior executive assistant, Quality Safety and Performance & Experience, Transformation and Social Accountability.