"Blackness is a testament to the human capacity for greatness."

February is Black History Month in Canada. This year's theme, Black Legacy and Leadership, invites us to both celebrate Canada's rich history while also looking toward the future and the generations yet to come.

One of the ways we’re celebrating is by highlighting Black leaders and changemakers from across our RRU community. Meet Dr. Giovanni Malcolm, an associate faculty member in our schools of Leadership and Tourism and Hospitality Management. He's also an alum of RRU's MA in Tourism Management program. With roots in Jamaica, Malcolm says Black History Month is a time of deep reflection, celebration and reaffirmation of identity.

Dr. Giovanni Malcolm: Associate Faculty, School of Leadership/ Tourism and Hospitality Management

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time of deep reflection, celebration and reaffirmation of identity. For me, it’s an opportunity to honor the struggles and triumphs of Black individuals who have paved the way for future generations. Moving from Jamaica to Canada seven and a half years ago, I’ve experienced the nuances of being Black in a predominantly white society. Black History Month serves as a reminder to celebrate not just the global contributions of Black people, but also the personal resilience it takes to navigate systemic barriers, racial undermining, and identity struggles in a new cultural environment. It’s a time to reflect on both shared and individual journeys of perseverance.

How do you connect with and celebrate your Black heritage?

I connect with my heritage through cultural practices, storytelling, and embracing my Jamaican roots. Cooking traditional meals, engaging in community events that highlight Caribbean culture, and passing on those traditions to my family are integral to staying grounded. As an educator, I incorporate aspects of Black history and leadership into my teaching, creating spaces where discussions about race, decolonization, and unconscious bias can thrive. These acts of remembrance and education are my forms of celebration — they ensure my heritage is not just acknowledged but also actively preserved and shared.

What makes you proud to be Black?

I am proud of the resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit that define the Black experience. To be Black is to embody strength forged in adversity, to innovate against all odds, and to create beauty and joy despite systemic challenges. I am especially proud of my journey — coming from Jamaica, building a life in Canada, achieving educational milestones, and contributing meaningfully to my community and profession. Blackness, to me, is a badge of honor, a legacy of survival, and a testament to the human capacity for greatness.

What does “black out loud” mean to you, and how do you think students can embrace and express that in their daily lives?

“Black out loud” means living authentically and unapologetically in one’s identity. It is an affirmation that Blackness is not something to hide or dilute but to celebrate boldly. For students, this can mean embracing their cultural heritage, challenging stereotypes, and taking pride in their unique perspectives. It involves speaking up against injustices and making space for their voices, even when it feels uncomfortable. In my own life, being “Black out loud” means using my platform as an educator and leader to elevate conversations about race and representation while encouraging others to do the same.

What can Canadians do to ensure Black history and allyship remain a meaningful part of conversations and actions throughout the year, not just during Black History Month?

Canada must embed Black history into its education system, ensuring it’s not treated as an afterthought but as an integral part of the country’s narrative. This requires honest reckoning with the historical and present realities of systemic racism in Canada. Organizations and individuals must commit to year-round efforts, such as supporting Black-owned businesses, advocating for policies that address racial disparities, and creating inclusive spaces for Black voices. It also involves active listening, allyship, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege and bias.

What does Black joy mean to you, and how do you center joy in your life?

Black joy, to me, is a radical act of resistance because it thrives in a world that often seeks to diminish it. It’s found in the laughter shared with family, the pride in my son's achievements, and the cultural celebrations that connect me to my roots. I center joy by prioritizing moments that uplift me — whether through spending time with loved ones, teaching subjects I’m passionate about, or mentoring the next generation. For me, joy is a way to honor the sacrifices of those who came before while creating a legacy of happiness for those who follow.

Which Black historical figures (or contemporary figures) inspire you? Or where do you find inspiration?

I draw inspiration from both historical and contemporary Black leaders. Figures like Marcus Garvey and Nanny of the Maroons remind me of the power of self-determination and resistance. Contemporary leaders like Barack Obama and Viola Desmond inspire me to challenge boundaries and advocate for justice. Closer to home, I find inspiration in the stories of ordinary Black individuals in Canada who defy the odds to create meaningful lives and contributions. Their resilience fuels my own drive to succeed and uplift others.

How has your experience as an immigrant influenced your perspective on Black identity and Black History Month?

My journey from Jamaica to Canada has deepened my understanding of the fluidity and complexity of Black identity. Living as an immigrant in a multicultural but predominantly white society has exposed me to the subtle forms of racism and exclusion that require constant vigilance and resilience. Black History Month reminds me that my story is part of a broader tapestry of migration, struggle, and triumph, and that my responsibility is to contribute to a world where Black excellence is celebrated, not just tolerated.

Read more reflections from members of our Royal Roads Community

• Rodney Kwaku Boateng-Sarpong: Student, Master of Arts in Environment and Management
• Karl Okyerefo: Alum, Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communication
• Chinonso Sylvia Uzoaru: Student, Master of Global Management

For more videos, events, resources and more, visit our Black History Month webpage.