Ottawa Young Black Professionals

03/21/2026

Hey YBP!

We are having another YBP Dine & Connect -
Honest conversations about work, life and thriving.

Join us for an evening that brings together young, mid career and retired Black professionals to build a community rooted in genuine connection. Through informal conversations and shared experiences, we’re creating a space that supports you through challenges and celebrates your personal and professional growth.

When Black professionals gather, we multiply our knowledge, our resources, our joy — and our ability to thrive.

We’re excited to host our next event at Lil’ Negril, a cherished local island restaurant now celebrating 15 incredible years in the community.

📅 April 9, 2026
📍 Lil’ Negril Island Grill — 261 Centrepointe Dr.
⏰ 5:30–7:30 PM

Register using the link below.

https://www.ottawaybp.com/event-details/ybp-dine-connect-1

Honest conversations about work, life, and thriving

03/18/2026

Hey YBP!

The Ottawa Black Film Festival - OBFF returns March 20–24, 2026, proudly celebrating Cultural Diversity and Creative Excellence with 40 remarkable films from around the globe. This year’s hybrid edition offers both in‑person and online screenings, plus signature events like their Opening Night on Friday, March 20, and the always‑popular Black Market Panel on Saturday, March 21.

Rooted in its theme, OBFF continues its commitment to elevating bold, authentic voices in cinema. The festival champions independent filmmaking and highlights stories that reflect the realities, experiences, and vibrant diversity of Black communities worldwide.

Explore the films, join the conversations, and support Black artistic expression.

https://ottawablackfilm.com/

The Ottawa Black Film Festival (OBFF) is dedicated to showcasing unique voices in cinema, offering audiences fresh perspectives on the world. With a mission to support the growth of independent filmmaking, OBFF highlights stories that reflect the realities, experiences, and diversity of Black commun...

03/10/2026

Hey YBP!

Welcome to our very first YBP Profile!

YBP Profile celebrates the power of individuals to drive collective action and meaningful change within their workplaces, communities, and beyond. We aim to honour those in our midst who stand boldly in their purpose, charting paths for others to follow. We recognize the ability each of us has to be a light for those in front of us, beside us, and behind us, and we express deep gratitude for the visionaries who lead with courage, clarity, and impact.

Today we are featuring the incredible Diane Watson, an experienced, dynamic and award winning leader in the tech industry, working with Ribbon Communications as a Product Security Program Manager.

After listening, we hope you feel inspired and reminded that meaningful change often starts with just one person taking action.

Check it out here: https://youtube.com/shorts/cwLAt00aj18?si=C6_80mvdnQnqAJg1

Welcome to the very first YBP Profile featuring Diane Watson, an experienced, dynamic and award winning leader in the tech industry, working with Ribbon Comm...

12/08/2025

Hey YBP,

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Holiday Dinner & Fundraiser on December 20th, a warm, intergenerational gathering created to celebrate community, generosity and our shared culture.

This special event will bring together families, friends, and neighbours of all ages, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a joyful and meaningful holiday season.

This year, we are proudly supporting Flo’s Seniors (www.floseniors.com) and Rhythm Movements Community Association (www.rhythm movements.ca), two local organizations that are currently working to assist seniors and families navigating financial strain, food insecurity, or isolation. By attending and contributing to this event, you will help create holiday baskets and much-needed hampers for seniors and their families during a time when they need extra love & care.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT

✨ Holiday dinner
✨ Free Giveaway
✨ Music and activities for the kids (arts, crafts, and games)
✨ Fellowship within the community while celebrating Afro-Caribbean culture
✨ Opportunities to support local seniors and families in need

WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT

1. Register & Bring a Hamper Donation on December 20th.

TO REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/holiday-dinner-fundraiser-tickets-1976378269607?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Suggested items you can bring include:
Grocery gift cards
Non-perishable foods: rice, flour, sugar, tea, coffee, milo or hot chocolate, crackers/cookies, tinned tuna or salmon, jam, peanut butter, soup, pasta, pasta sauce, oatmeal variety packs, corned beef, mints & chocolate
Personal care items: blankets or shawls, gift sets (lotion, body wash, deodorant)
2. Support the Virtual Holiday Raffle

Purchase tickets for the Flo’s Seniors & Rhythm Movements Holiday Raffle (License ) for a chance to win great prizes. Tickets are $2.00 a ticket or $10.00 per booklet. Raffle will take place: December 12, 2025, at 7 pm on Zoom.

How to Buy: Send e-transfer to [email protected] (tickets can be emailed or mailed). Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or more.
First prize: $1,000 cash
Second prize: $500 cash
Third prize: Festive Spirit Basket & LCBO gift card (value: $250)
If you would like more details about the event or how to get involved, please feel free to reach out to:
Marco Theodore, The Brotherhood Coalition — [email protected]
Dr. Clyde Ledbetter, Lukasa Library — [email protected]
We would be honoured to have you join us in celebrating the season and our community.

09/24/2025

🚨 Last chance to RSVP! 🚨

YBP Dine & Connect is happening soon, and you don’t want to miss this evening of networking, collaboration, and community.

This is your opportunity to meet new people, share ideas, and spark meaningful connections.

RSVP now: https://www.ottawaybp.com/event-details/ybp-dine-connect

See you there! ✨

Building connections that matter.

09/17/2025

✨ Don’t miss out! ✨

Hey YBP! Our YBP Dine & Connect networking event is almost here, and spots are filling up. This is your chance to meet new faces, exchange ideas, and build the kind of connections that inspire growth and collaboration.

If you haven’t RSVP’d yet, now’s the time! Secure your spot today and join us for an evening of great conversation and community.

👉 RSVP here: https://www.ottawaybp.com/event-details/ybp-dine-connect

We can’t wait to connect with you!

Building connections that matter.

09/11/2025

Connect. Collaborate. Create.

Hey YBP!! Join us for a dynamic networking event where you can build meaningful connections, share bold ideas, and spark collaborative energy.

YBP Dine & Connect is all about coming together to inspire and support one another. Whether you're looking to collaborate on a new project, seeking advice, offering your skills, or simply wanting to meet like-minded individuals, this is your space to grow and give.

Come and see! RSVP here:

Building connections that matter.

05/30/2025

Hey YBP! Check out this community event taking place next weekend!

Closet Finds & Refresh: Clothing Swap Event!��Sunday June 8, 2025 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM�Bronson Centre Rm 109

As the days get warmer and we welcome sunnier vibes, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with light, breezy, and stylish pieces!

And the best part? Any un-swapped clothing will be donated to a shelter, helping women in need access professional and warm-weather attire.

Buy your tickets here:

**Closet Finds & Refresh: Clothing Swap Event!** As the days get warmer and we welcome sunnier vibes, it’s the perfect t...

05/29/2025

Hey YBP!

We’re proud to once again support the REDBLACKS Back to School Initiative this summer!

This event is more than just Ottawa’s largest networking opportunity—it’s a chance to connect with professionals from across the city and across industries, all while making a meaningful impact in our community.

Together, we’ll help equip local students with the essentials they need for a strong start to the school year: school supplies, lunch bags, shoes, and more.

At YBP, community and connection are core to who we are—that’s why we’re proud to be part of this important fundraiser.

🎟️ YBP members can access exclusive discounted tickets—message us directly for your promo code. Let’s show up, give back, and make a difference together!

Ottawa YBP
[email protected]
OttawaYBP.com

04/04/2025

We have news! Plus, an important initiative to support! -

YBP! We are excited to share two important initiatives, close to our hearts and that we believe will have a meaningful impact:

04/03/2025

Hey YBP! Sharing with you an event being hosted by a member of our network. It’s the Women & Finance Webinar, happening on April 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST via Zoom.

This interactive session is designed to provide women with the knowledge and tools to take control of their finances, build lasting wealth, and create financial security for themselves and their families.

Details and registration here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/women-finance-wealth-beyond-limits-your-next-financial-chapter-tickets-1289023507009

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Ottawa YBP is always looking to share events from our network and celebrate in their success.

Ready to build wealth and conquer financial stress? Join us to unlock the tools you need for lasting security and confidence in your future!

03/19/2025

Join Us - YBP Networking Opportunity -

Being in a space like this, surrounded by such inspiring individuals, reminded me of the importance of community. Life can be a ruthless place when lived in isolation, but when we intentionally seek out spaces to share, learn, and grow together, the rewards are immeasurable. These connections, conve...