Created in the Image of God: I Am Because We Are (Ubuntu) Series

27 Grade 7 classes, representing 681 students, are participating in Created in the Image of God: I Am Because We Are (Ubuntu), a virtual engagement series that began in March and focuses on identity, mental wellness, faith, and belonging.

Facilitated by Tanika Riley (“iNsight”) and Matthew Jones (“Testament”), alongside a board planning team, the four-part series invites students into a reflective journey grounded in African and Indigenous wisdom, Catholic faith, and community connection.

While open to all students, the series is intentionally designed to affirm Black identity, celebrate cultural heritage, and nurture leadership and belonging.

Students are exploring:

• Self‑Awareness – Who Am I? through the Ubuntu principle “I am because we are”.
• Self‑Regulation – How Do I Feel? using faith‑based and African‑rooted wellness practices.
• Self‑Love – Words, Sound, Power by reflecting on language, empathy, and community impact.
• Self‑Expression – Connection through artistic and personal reflection.

The series will culminate in a system‑wide in‑person gathering on May 27, where students will share poetry, spoken word, journal reflections, and visual art in a community sharing circle that honours voice, identity, and collective wisdom.