Homage to Home is a learning series that deepens our understanding of systems transformation through an Afrocentric lens. It spotlights organizations and individuals from the African continent and African Diaspora who are transforming systems to create positive outcomes where they are most needed.

Building on the Afrocentric Systems Transformation Collaborative Dialogue Series, Homage to Home explores stories, practices, and lived experiences that show what systems transformation looks like in action. Each publicly showcased engagement provides a platform to learn from, and be inspired by, those driving meaningful change.

By participating in this series, you will:

• Have a broader perspective of how change occurs through an Afrocentric lens  

• Have an increased understanding of the value of diverse voices in systems transformation thinking and practice 

• Have access to documentation that reflect key learnings from the engagements 

• Have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with organizations and individuals 

Allan Boesak
Director, Youth, African Diaspora and Continental Engagement

Allan Boesak is a seasoned facilitator of systemic social transformation with over 20 years’ experience in international and community development. Originally from South Africa, he has worked across Africa and Europe on youth engagement, civic education, sport for development, and community safety, with a strong focus on amplifying marginalized voices. Passionate about youth empowerment, Allan believes young people are key drivers of positive social change.

Sarah Mekonen
Senior Coordinator, Digital Content and Communications

Sarah Mekonen leads digital content and communications at NABC, ensuring transparent, impactful outreach for the organization’s initiatives and programs. A communications professional with a Bachelor of Communications from Wilfrid Laurier University, she has worked with diverse organizations to promote accessibility and inclusivity through strategic communications. Her experience includes leading the Guelph Urban Design Awards, coordinating website design, and supporting rebranding projects. Passionate about storytelling, Sarah uses communications to amplify voices and foster understanding across communities.

Homage to Home is designed for those who want to explore systems transformation through an Afrocentric lens and learn directly from the experiences of organizations and individuals across the African continent and African Diaspora.

It is ideal for:

• B3 (Black-led, Black-focused, Black-serving) organizations committed to advancing systemic change

• Systems thinking practitioners seeking diverse perspectives and approaches

• Systems leaders driving transformation within their sectors or communities

• Community development practitioners working to create equitable, sustainable change

Whether you are leading a systems transformation initiative, engaged in community-based change, or exploring new approaches to complex challenges, Homage to Home offers insights, connections, and learning opportunities to strengthen your work.

Participants will engage with African organizations and individuals through quarterly features shared across our communications channels. Each engagement will highlight stories, practices, and lived experiences, offering lessons that broaden perspectives on systems transformation through an Afrocentric lens. Participants will also have access to documentation capturing key learnings, along with opportunities for continued dialogue and collaboration.

Engagements will be hosted both virtually and, when possible, in person. This blended approach ensures accessibility for participants across Canada while creating space for deeper, in-person connections.