91ÅÝܽ

What began as a heartfelt idea to center healing through food has grown into a vibrant monthly celebration of Black cuisine and culture at 91ÅÝܽ (SFU).

The Community Kitchen Series has become a cornerstone of connection for students from all backgrounds, providing not only nourishing meals but also spaces of belonging, storytelling and cultural pride. Aligned with SFU’s Equity Compass, the community kitchen fosters understanding and appreciation of the diversity within our campus, while providing access to healthy food – a foundational resource for academic and personal success.

The story behind the kitchen

The kitchen brings people together across disciplines and demographics; promoting the kind of inclusive community our Equity Compass envisions. Launched in February 2025, the Community Kitchen Series emerged from a collaboration between SFU's Sexual Violence Support & Prevention Office (SVSPO), Embark Sustainability, the Women’s Centre, and Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA). Facilitated by the Clinical Counsellor for Black Students as part of the Black Student Centre’s programming, the series is designed to prioritize healing, cultural education and community-building, with a special emphasis on African and Caribbean cuisines. Since then, monthly events have featured diverse dishes from Jamaica, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Guyana and more.

What students are saying

Beyond the food, the Community Kitchen has been a lifeline for many students—especially those facing marginalization, food insecurity and social isolation. It provides nutritious meals to those who may not always have reliable access to healthy culturally appropriate food, directly helping to reduce hunger and food insecurity. As one student shared, “this event is a beacon for students who don’t know where their next meal will come from."

For some, it is a meaningful way to reconnect with their heritage; for others, it’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a warm meal among friends and allies. Participants have shared how impactful these experiences have been:

"It was a great way to connect and find community." — Participant, March 2025

"Community learning - more about Juneteenth and cultural foods brought us together." — Participant, June 2025

"The food was amazing, and I learned so much about the culture behind it." — Participant, April 2025

"I felt included and valued here, even though I came alone." — Participant, February 2025

Beyond nourishment and connection, the Community Kitchen also empowers students by teaching cooking, nutrition, and food safety skills, giving participants the confidence to make healthier, culturally informed choices at home. By encouraging the preparation of and enjoyment of fresh, whole foods of African and Caribbean heritages, the Community Kitchen not only improves diet quality and supports mental health through social interaction but also offers students from diverse backgrounds the chance to learn about the rich history, culture significance of these diverse foods. This knowledge strengthens cultural awareness, fosters deeper historical understanding, and nurtures empathy, respect, and inclusive thinking among the student population.  

Keeping the momentum going

As of August 2025, the Community Kitchen has served hundreds of students and continues to grow as a hub of cultural exchange and community building. Participation has reflected SFU’s diverse student body. Upcoming events will feature dishes from Barbados, Ethiopia and The Bahamas, further expanding the cultural palate.

Join us at our next event on September 18, 2025.

The success of the Community Kitchen has been made possible through the generous support of Advancement and Alumni Engagement via the Food Security Initiative. Deep gratitude for their invaluable contribution and to the dedicated organizers behind the Community Kitchen Series, whose vision and leadership continue to nourish both body and spirit across campus:

• Team Lead: Tricia-Kay Williams, Clinical Counsellor for Black Students
• Team Member: Naomi Agbebaku, SFU SOCA Exec at Large
• Team Member: Emmanuel Anthony-Onuigbo, SFU SOCA President
• Student Services: Jennifer Kandjii, Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Student Services: Daniel Sheriff, Associate Director of the Black Student Centre

Our Community Kitchen embodies SFU’s equity strategy – it’s not just about food, but about fostering equity, celebrating diversity and cultivating a true sense of belonging for everyone in our campus community.