The Lively lady Laureates of Black History Month 2026
As many know, the month of February holds significant importance for a people whose voices and contributions have often been overlooked throughout history: it is Black History Month. And while the Canadian government officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1995, Montrealers had already been celebrating the occasion for nearly a century.
For the past 35 years, a key role in these celebrations has been played by the Montreal Black History Month Round Table, a non-profit organization that has helped expand events and community recognition throughout Québec. During this month, Round Table contributes significantly to the annual celebration by promoting and honouring the achievements and heritage of Black communities across the province.
One of the many traditions the Round Table has carried out since 1995 is the creation of a calendar featuring 12 remarkable Black people, one for each month, who have demonstrated exceptional involvement in their community, whether through culture, science, education, or other fields. This tradition has become greatly symbolic over time, representing to some the idea that Black history should be recognized and celebrated throughout all twelve months of the year.
Now, as February gives way to March, with the increase in rain and sun, and as winter slowly bleeds into spring, another group of extraordinary individuals is recognized on March 8: Women. With the approach of International Women’s Day, The Insider believes there is no better way to honour both the laureates and women than by highlighting the six Women Laureates of 2026 in this issue.
Latoya Belfon – February
Latoya Belfon is a celebrated author of over 15 children’s books and goal-setting guides, a McGill University alumna, CEO of Labworks Publishing, educator, and vibrant motivational speaker. She is also a co-founder of Empowered Women in Lit, which is an online platform which has a goal to fight biases and encourage diversity in literature.
Biba Tinga – April
Biba Tinga is the president of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada (SCDAC). Being so, she is capable of aiding many patients and their families through the creation of the first sickle-cell anemia registry in Canada, initiating federal bill S-201, and eliminating system barriers. She is also a polyglot, speaking Zarma, Hausa, French, English, and Wolof.
Christelle Onomo Lopes – June
Christelle Onomo Lopes is a social entrepreneur and community leader of Montreal who directs a youth center serving teens. She also works as an HEC-certified consultant supporting about 30 nonprofit organizations in the Black community and serves on several boards, promoting youth engagement, social inclusion, and access to educational and professional opportunities.
Nadine Alcindor – August
Nadine Alcindor is a communications and media professional with over 20 years of experience as a journalist, director, and documentary producer. Now an executive and project manager in public service media, she focuses on improving representation and promoting social cohesion.
Oluwanifemi Fagbohun – October
Dr. Oluwanifemi Fagbohun is a chemical engineer, author, and founder of ethical beauty initiatives, including Niffy Signature, Montreal Vendors, and the Niffy Wellness Foundation. With over 19 years of experience, she has empowered thousands of women and entrepreneurs worldwide and is recognized for her leadership, sustainable beauty advocacy, and promotion of Black culture and heritage. She is also the first woman of Nigerian descent to be named a laureate in 35 years.
Cynthia Waithe – December
Cynthia Waithe is a Montréal community leader of Barbadian heritage with a 34-year career in the transportation industry. She serves as president of Barbados House Montréal and vice-president of the Carimas Montréal carnival, and has been recognized as a 2024 CBC Black Changemaker for her leadership and dedication to community empowerment and cultural celebration.
Sources
- “How did Black History Month come to be”, CBC Kids Team, Feb.3, 2025
- “Black History Month marks a triple milestone in 2026”, The Main, Feb. 6, 2026
- Ijewere, Esther, “Dr. Oluwanifemi ‘Niffy’ Fagbohun makes history as 2026 Black History Month leaureate in Montreal”, Women of Rubies, Feb. 13, 2026
- Bios translated from:
- “Les laureat.e.s”, Table Ronde du Mois de l’histoire des Noir.e.s, 2026
