Rise and Shine: Black Girl Magic Collective event at LCCHS
by Joanne Malowany
The bell recently rang at LCCHS and 52 Black female students stepped into the school library for something created entirely, and intentionally, for them. The space had been transformed for the occasion: soft music, inviting couches, and a relaxed stage setup that immediately set the tone for an afternoon of connection.
After a brief welcome from the school principal, Wusua Mitchell, the team from Black Girl Magic Collective (BGMC) took the lead with a panel discussion designed to spark conversation, confidence, and community.
The event was moderated by Jade Parkinson-Gayle, a Special Care and Mental Health Counsellor based in Montreal. Grounded, empathetic, and creative, she brought a calm and thoughtful presence to the room. Her work in both clinical and community settings reflects the values at the heart of BGMC: empowerment, self-worth, and amplifying the voices of young Black women.
Jade guided a conversation with two panelists, both Black women whose personal stories and achievements offered different, yet relatable, perspectives.
Maya Seon, 19, a vibrant and dynamic Montrealer with Vincy and Trini roots. A Marketing and Management student at Dawson College, she balances athletics, event planning, dance coaching, retail work, and DJing. Her message to the students emphasized ambition, balance, and staying grounded in what matters most: family, friends, and joy.
Keemah Gordon, an LCCHS alumna, grew up in LaSalle and brought a sense of familiarity to the panel. She reflected on her active years at LCCHS, including organizing the school’s variety show, contributing to graduation, and proudly earning an award for outstanding participation. Her story highlighted resilience, growth, and building a fulfilling life despite early challenges.
Students asked thoughtful, honest questions and eagerly engaged with the panelists, creating an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect.
After the event, BGMC founder Shari Waldrich shared her reflections and described the experience as nothing short of “magical.”
“Just seeing their faces light up knowing that there was something created ‘just for them’ that was everything. The goal was for the girls to realize how important it is to support each other in school. I heard that they want to start an after-school girls’ club. Hearing that was extremely rewarding.”
BGMC has been a long-held vision, sparked during Shari’s involvement on the LBPSB Task Force in 2021. That vision became reality on May 2, 2025, when a panel discussion marked the official launch of the initiative.
For the students who attended, the event was more than a conversation. It was a space where they were seen, celebrated, and encouraged to lift one another up, and that is exactly what BGMC intends to build, one gathering at a time.
