Chains To Changes Presented By Black Kids In Action
In the February 2023 and 2025 issues of Biz X, readers were introduced to Black Kids In Action (BKIA), a registered not-for-profit organization committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where Black youth can freely express themselves, build confidence, and cultivate their unique talents.
BKIA is guided by Executive Director Oluwatosin Akinbinu, supported by a seven-member Board of Directors and a team of six staff members. Their mission is straightforward, yet profound: “To create a world where Black children feel seen, heard, and empowered to become their best selves. Because every child has a big dream, and sometimes, all they need is a little nudge to believe they can reach it.”
BKIA is excited to announce its 2026 Black History Month (February) production — Chains to Changes — a stirring theatrical celebration of Black history, resilience, and achievement, performed at the Capitol Theatre on Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m.
The story is crafted by Sherwin Pivotte and Oluwatosin Akinbinu, and adapted for the stage by Akinbinu, who also serves as Co-Playwright and Director.
The creative vision is further shaped by Creative Director Pam Hartford, with Daniel Akinbinu serving as BKIA Youth Leader and Social Media Coordinator, and Marcia Pivotte as BKIA Vice-President and Community Facilitator. This captivating production features a vibrant cast of young performers ranging from eight to 21 years of age, adorned in colourful traditional African costumes.
Through drama, music, dance, and spoken word, Chains to Changes traces the journey from oppression to empowerment, shining a light on the bravery and legacy of Black heroes from the past such as Viola Desmond, Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. The production also honours local contemporary leaders, including the late Dr. Howard McCurdy, who was posthumously recognized in BKIA’s 2024 performance.
More than just an educational and entertaining event, the production empowers its young participants to discover and amplify their voices, embrace their heritage, and engage audiences in meaningful conversations about identity, resilience, and social change. BKIA has extended invitations to the four school boards of Windsor and Essex County to bring students to a performance on Thursday,
February 26 at 10:30 a.m. at the Capitol Theatre.
Similarly, a performance for the school boards of Chatham Kent is scheduled for February 20 at the Ursuline College as part of Black History Month festivities.
This year’s production recognizes and celebrates the retired 88-year-old Honourable Jean Augustine for her significant contributions and impact within the Black community.
As noted on the Government of Canada website: “Jean Augustine made history as the first Black woman elected to Canada’s Parliament, serving from 1993 to 2006. Her roles included Parliamentary
Secretary to the Prime Minister, Minister for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Deputy Speaker.”
Augustine’s legislative achievements encompass both her successful historic Black History Month Motion and her “Famous Five” Motion honouring women’s suffrage. Upon her retirement after 13 years as a Liberal MP, she became Ontario’s first-ever Fairness Commissioner, serving from 2007 to 2015.
BKIA warmly invites the entire community to participate in this celebration of culture, creativity, and Black excellence, highlighting the incredible talents of its youth and paying tribute to trailblazing Black heroes.
I attended, along with our photographer, a rehearsal on November 29, 2025 at the Windsor Essex Caribbean Association on Central Avenue.
The young performers demonstrated exceptional talent, respect, and self- pride. A highlight of their gatherings is a group self-affirmation, led by their leader, which inspires and unites them:
- What if it’s too hard? I will push through.
- What if it’s too tough? I will still push through.
- They say you are too young; that’s not true.
- They say I’m not good enough. They don’t know me.
- Because I am Black, I am bold, I am beautiful, I am brilliant, I am brave, and no one defines me, but me.
- And as miracles on this earth, we are: Amazing. Awesome. Exciting.
- We are Black Kids In Action — and we were born to shine!
For ticket information on Chains to Change, visit their website.
Biz X magazine is proud to sponsor this event and extends its best wishes to BKIA for its continued success.
We hope to see many of our readers at the Capitol Theatre on February 27 for this important celebration.
