Nanaimo African Heritage Society

10/11/2026

To all our followers, supporters, and guests who have attended over the past eleven years who have enjoyed the pageantry, the fun, and the merriment we want you to know that we will be back even stronger next year. We thank you deeply for your support in helping our show come to life year after year. We look forward to welcoming you again when the Fairytale Royal Tea Party returns. To honor your loyalty, we will be offering a five‑dollar coupon toward the next scheduled show. Please stay tuned for updates and press releases as we prepare to bring you the Fairytale Royal Tea Party 2027, and help us make our 13th year the best one yet. From the Nanaimo African Heritage Society, we thank you for your support throughout the past eleven years. We sincerely apologize for postponing this year’s show, and we look forward to presenting an exciting event in the future. Thank you again.” Shalema Gantt

09/21/2026

06/30/2026

🎶 Live music is back at the Parksville Museum this July!

Spend your Thursday evenings surrounded by history, community, and incredible live performances in one of Vancouver Island’s most unique outdoor venues. This year’s summer concert series features five unforgettable nights of music, with genres including Blues, Afro-Jazz, Motown, and Country Rock—offering something for every music lover.

Whether you’re a local looking for the perfect summer evening or visiting Vancouver Island, the Parksville Museum’s annual concert series is a wonderful way to relax, connect with the community, and experience live music in a beautiful heritage setting.

🎟️ Visit the Parksville Museum website for concert dates, featured artists, and tickets.

06/19/2026

On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of both the struggles endured and the strength, perseverance, and contributions of Black communities throughout history.

As we commemorate this important day, we reflect on the past, celebrate the progress that has been made, and reaffirm our commitment to preserving and sharing Black history for future generations.

❤️🖤💚

Honouring the past. Inspiring the future.

06/19/2026

The Nanaimo African Heritage Society is dedicated to preserving Black history, celebrating culture, and building meaningful connections within our community and beyond.

Through educational programs, cultural events, community partnerships, and storytelling, we work to ensure that the contributions, experiences, and histories of people of African descent are recognized, shared, and celebrated.

Our mission extends beyond remembering the past—we are committed to creating spaces where communities can learn from one another, engage in meaningful dialogue, and build a more inclusive future together.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or discovering us for the first time, we invite you to be part of our journey.

📖 Sharing Stories
🫱🏿‍🫲🏾 Building Community
🌍 Celebrating Black History

Follow along as we continue to highlight the people, stories, and achievements that enrich Vancouver Island and beyond.

06/05/2026

🌍🫶🏿 Africa Day 2026 🫶🏿🌍

The Nanaimo African Heritage Society was honoured to participate in this year's Africa Day celebrations and connect with community members from across Vancouver Island.

Pictured is NAHS founder Shalema Gantt, alongside Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog and MLA George Anderson, as well as at the NAHS cultural booth featuring traditional African items including, handcrafted artwork, literature, and clothing. Throughout the event, visitors had the opportunity to learn more about African heritage, explore authentic cultural items, and engage in meaningful conversations about history, culture, and community.

Africa Day was a wonderful celebration of African culture, heritage, and community spirit. We were grateful for the opportunity to share the work of the Nanaimo African Heritage Society and connect with so many people interested in learning more about Black history and culture.

A special thank you to lead organizer Tania Amaral, whose dedication, vision, and hard work helped make Africa Day such a meaningful and successful celebration. We are also grateful to the volunteers, vendors, performers, and everyone who stopped by our booth to learn more about the Nanaimo African Heritage Society.

04/13/2026

I am deeply honored and humbled to share that I was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal during the 2026, Black History Gala in Nanaimo .
This recognition for my work with the Nanaimo African Heritage Society means the world to me. My mission has always been to celebrate our rich history, advocate for diversity, and empower the community to lead with confidence. To have that commitment recognized on this level is a reminder of why this work matters so much.
Thank you to MP Lisa Marie Barron for the nomination and to the Nanaimo-Ladysmith community for your endless support. We are stronger together! 🇨🇦
Humbled

02/26/2026

📍Live in Nanaimo
🗓 February 28, 2026
🔗 https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../harlem-night-black-history...

02/24/2026

📍Live in Nanaimo
🗓 February 28, 2026
🔗 https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../harlem-night-black-history...




23h

02/23/2026

🎤 Meet Shalema Gantt — Singer and Visionary Leader for Harlem Night 2026
Shalema Gantt is a dynamic cultural advocate, community builder, and storyteller dedicated to celebrating Black heritage, arts, and empowerment. With a heart for connection and a passion for showcasing talent, Shalema brings energy, inspiration, and vision to every space she inhabits.

As a leader in the Nanaimo African Heritage Society, she has championed programs, events, and initiatives that honor history while empowering the next generation of creatives and changemakers. For the 2026 Harlem Night Black History Gala, Shalema will illuminate the evening with her warmth, insight, and dedication to community celebration.

📍Live in Nanaimo
🗓 February 28, 2026
🔗 https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../harlem-night-black-history...