 Newsletter September 2026 A New Chapter: We're Now Caribbean Hub!  A Message from Our President: Vancouver Island Caribbean Hub is now Caribbean Hub! What started on Vancouver Island has continued to grow — our programs, partnerships, community and reach now extend beyond the Island, and we felt it was time for our name to grow with us. Vancouver Island remains our home and an important part of who we are. The majority of our programs and events will continue to happen here. This change simply gives us more room to expand our reach, build new partnerships and create opportunities and connections in other communities. Our name may be changing, but our purpose remains the same: celebrating Caribbean arts and culture, strengthening community and belonging, and creating opportunities for our community to connect and grow. On behalf of Caribbean Hub, thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey and helped us get to this point. We’re excited about where we’re headed and look forward to growing together. Welcome to Caribbean Hub. Dr. O. Randall  Got i-Land Fest Tabanca? We’ve Got the Cure!Our annual post-festival reunion is back for its third year! This year, we’re turning it up with two special guest DJs flying in just for Tabanca — Dawg E Slaughter and Astro! Victoria, get ready for a full night of soca, calypso, dancehall, reggae and more! Caribbean food on sale & debit/credit card preferred bar!  Soca Therapy is Coming to Surrey!As Caribbean Hub continues to grow beyond Vancouver Island, we’re excited to begin building more connections and community on the Mainland. And we’re kicking things off with our first Caribbean Hub event in Surrey — Soca Therapy! Join us for a night of soca music, Caribbean rhythms and island vibes with DJ Cabin Fever and DJ Kenyon keeping you moving all night. Early bird tickets are on sale now!  SocaFit Has a New Home!Starting Monday, September 14, Soca Fit is moving indoors to our new home at the Black & Here Centre, 1327 Douglas Street! Join us every Monday at 6:30 PM for movement, soca music, good energy and community. Come ready to sweat, move and have fun with us!  Building Safer Caribbean Community SpacesWe’re excited to share that Caribbean Hub has established a new Community Safety Committee, focused on strengthening safety, care and safeguarding across our programs, events and community spaces. The committee will help guide how we prevent and respond to safety concerns and support the creation of spaces where our community can participate, celebrate and connect safely. We’ve also been developing a new Community Safety, Harassment & Safeguarding Policy, and we’ll be sharing more information about the policy and this important work in the coming days.  Partner With Caribbean HubWe’re already planning for i-Land Fest 2027 and our growing lineup of events and programs, and we’re looking for businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations interested in partnering with us! Whether you’re looking to promote your business, connect with our community, sponsor an event or provide operational support, there are a variety of ways to get involved and support the work of Caribbean Hub. Interested in becoming a 2027 sponsor or partner? What's Happening in the Community  TK The Artist – Album Release ShowVictoria artist TK The Artist is celebrating the release of his second full-length album in two years as a completely independent venture! Blending Afrobeats with jazz, R&B and soul, the new project reflects growth, community and the journey of young creatives finding their place and building something of their own. Join TK and an incredible group of musicians for a special live music experience on September 18 at Coda.  B(l)ack to School at UVicThe Scarborough Charter Steering Committee is hosting its third annual B(l)ack to School event, welcoming Black students, staff and faculty to the new school year. Alumni and community members are also invited to join! Learn more HERE. RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot.  You are invited to ICA's virtual Annual General Meeting! 🗓️ Thursday, September 16 🕔 5:30 PM–6:30 PM If you have any questions, please email ICA's Development Coordinator, Sheryl Sackman at ssackman@icavictoria.org.  Supporting the Goldiet FamilyOur community is mourning the sudden passing of Mary Goldiet, a longtime community member and the wife of William Goldiet, President of the African Heritage Association of Vancouver Island (AHAVI). Mary was a mother of five and spent many years supporting our community and advocating for human rights in Canada and Lebanon. Her passing leaves a tremendous loss for her family and those who knew her. Community members are coming together to support the Goldiet family during this difficult time, and fundraising options have been set up for anyone who would like to contribute. If you are able, please consider donating and supporting the family.  Community Perk: BreakOut West FestivalBreakOut West Festival is coming to Victoria! Get ready for three nights of live music featuring 55+ artists from Western Canada and beyond across 10 Victoria venues. As part of the Caribbean Hub community, you can access a special discount on festival wristbands using our exclusive code: Discount Code: 10IF Come out, support live music and maybe discover your next favourite artist! Use the Caribbean Hub ticket link and code 10IF to save on your wristband. |