Black History Month : Read about Steve’s journey

As part of Black History Month, it's important to highlight stories that inspire and reflect the richness of Canada's Black population. Steve Mbita, originally from Douala, Cameroon, embodies this inspiration through his exceptional journey of resilience and determination. Living in Yellowknife for the past year and a half, and in Canada for the past eight years, his story is a testament to the quest for professional and social development of Black people in Canada.  

Academic and professional background 

Holder of a high school diploma obtained in Alberta in 2012 and a Bachelor's degree in Marketing in Cameroon. Today, he is the administrative assistant at Collège Nordique, where he manages the student body's enrolment in the various language courses and the billing of institutional clients. This position enables him to make a significant contribution to the educational life of the Collège. 

Being Black in Canada: a constant challenge 

Steve candidly shares the challenges faced by Black people in Canada, particularly in the workplace. He stresses the need to redouble one's efforts to prove one's competence, in the face of a system that does not always recognize the qualifications and experience of immigrants. This reality, he believes, often forces Black people to accept under-qualified jobs.  

Inspirations and aspirations 

Steve finds inspiration in the story of his grandfather, who left Cameroon at a young age to study medicine in England, eventually becoming a leading figure in medicine in Cameroon. This family history serves as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome with determination and boldness. Steve aspires to a Canada where Black people can flourish professionally and socially, enjoying the same rights and opportunities as other citizens.  

Black excellence: a heritage to be valued 

For Steve, this year's theme of Black History is a call to recognize and value the excellence of Black people in all sectors of Canadian society. He stresses the importance of breaking down simplistic stereotypes and celebrating the varied contributions of the Black community beyond traditional fields such as music, sport or physical labour.  

Steve Mbita's story is a vibrant reminder of the diverse journeys of Black people in Canada, marked by resilience, determination and hope. His journey from Douala to Yellowknife is a celebration of Black excellence, a heritage to celebrate and a future to build together.