May - A Month to Remember: Culture, Community, and Connection
- Nimi
- May 31
- 3 min read
As May comes to a close, we’re reflecting on a month that was rich with celebration, inspiration, and unforgettable moments of togetherness. Whether cheering on students walking a runway, gathering with hundreds of youth in a stadium full of hope, or celebrating one of our own, one thing was clear - community matters. May reminded us of the importance of showing up, sharing stories, and uplifting what makes each of us unique. Here’s a look back at some of the month’s biggest highlights.
Runway Meets Heritage at Princess Elizabeth School
On May 14th, UCOF proudly returned to Princess Elizabeth School for their Multicultural Celebration Night and it was nothing short of magical.
By the time our team arrived, the gym was alive with energy. Families gathered in colourful traditional attire, kids buzzed between activity tables, and the aroma of delicious dishes generously served by local food vendors filled the room. It was a beautiful reflection of the school community’s cultural pride.
As part of our School Outreach Project, we hosted a student fashion showcase. Each child brought something special to the stage, from bold cultural attire to fun, modern twists on traditional looks. Some danced, some beamed with pride, and others marched across the runway like seasoned pros. Beyond the adorable moments (and there were many), the showcase became a powerful expression of identity, unity, and pride. Families dressed in coordinated outfits, students waved flags with joy, and one child’s Canadian flannel reminded us that pride in heritage doesn’t always mean looking far, it can also mean embracing where you are.
Thank you to the entire PES community for welcoming us back. Events like this reaffirm why it's so essential to give youth the space to honour their stories and be celebrated for who they are.
Inspiration at the WE Believe Youth Event
Just one day earlier, our team attended the WE Believe youth event at TD Station in Saint John. This incredible gathering brought together students, educators, and community leaders for a day filled with purpose, connection, and motivation. All the speakers shared inspiring heartfelt stories of resilience, courage and change.
The energy was electric and the youth left feeling seen, inspired, and empowered. This wasn’t just a school trip. It was a turning point for many, and for us, a reminder of how powerful youth voices truly are. Thank you to Dan and Bev Foote and the WE Believe – Saint John Inc. team for creating such a transformative experience.
UCOF Team interacting with Students at the WE Believe Event
Celebrating Leadership and Growth
Another exciting milestone this month was the recognition of our very own Rufina Ajalie,
co-founder and Board President of United Colours of Fashion, as a Champion of Diversity on May 15th at the Night of Influence Awards Gala hosted by Lighthouse Leader Group. Her ongoing work to support inclusivity and elevate youth voices continues to inspire us every day.
L-R: Rufina Ajalie | Ngozi and Christine with Rufina | All the nominees with Terri-Ann Richard (far left in blue) the host
In May, we also moved into a new chapter! We officially relocated our UCOF office space from ConnexionWorks to 87 Prince William Street, giving us a fresh base to continue growing and serving our community.
What’s Next?
As we move into June, we’re more energized than ever. New school visits, workshops, and community events are just around the corner, and we can’t wait to continue celebrating culture, creativity, and connection with youth across our city.
To everyone who supported us this month, thank you. Whether you walked the runway, volunteered, or simply showed up, you made the month of May unforgettable.
Let’s keep the momentum going!
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