ABC Current Board of Directors: from left, Kirk Bolton, Temitope Olukunle, Oluwayemisi Akaahs, Ejadamen Ogidan and Faidi Mageza.
Q&A with Kirk Bolton, President, Airdrie Black Community (ABC)
How long has the organization been in operation in Airdrie?
The ABC, pioneered by Sunday Adeleye, began in January 2022 when a few like-minded individuals spanning various cultures and Black history came together, believing that it was time for the Black community in Airdrie to start to harness its uniqueness and economic potential. Sunday was joined by Akin Akinwunmi, Koomson Ferguson, Bright Adelegan and Leighton McLean, whom he considered friends and colleagues, and shared interests in upscaling the interactions that existed amongst Black residents in Airdrie.
In February 2022, a steering committee was formed and Simisola Obasan, Yemisi Akaahs, Koby Otchere and Dixon Usen joined the five. The steering committee ran the affairs of the ABC in the early days, fulfilling obligations such as development of a strategic intention; establishing the philosophy that would drive the association; articulating the vision, mission statement and core values; marketing and communications; and then its corporate registration.
After forming a board in July 2022, the steering committee resolved and the first president of the ABC emerged in the person of Leighton McLean, an exceptional leader in his own right. Leighton led the ABC through most of its maiden initiatives and events, inviting and increasing ABC membership to about 300 families at the end of his tenure. In August 2023, Simisola Obasan became the second president of ABC and, in August 2025, I became the third (and current) president.
How many residents are involved?
We have about 850 residents associated with the organization currently, with over 500 registered members.
How can others get involved?
We would love for everyone and anyone who identifies as Black in Airdrie to think of ABC as
home. Our commitment to members is to be their greatest resource and advocate, as well as fan and ally, when they arrive in Airdrie. Whether new or old residents, we invite them to continue to reach out and register to become active members of the Community. Membership involves registration with the secretariat, active participation, paying of annual dues, engaging in Community Watch, volunteering and interacting with other members of the association.
What is the main goal of ABC? How will it be achieved?
Our main goal is to create the platform for networking and partnership amongst Black residents in Airdrie — irrespective of origin, background, ethnicity or upbringing — by leveraging our uniqueness and talents as a race to improve our overall net worth. The vision is gradually being realized through efforts like community engagement, partnerships, ensuring representation where it matters [and] youth mentorship, as well as other awareness and inclusion efforts.
The administration’s work is guided by our commitment under the acronym RISE: Reinforcing Inclusivity, Support and Empowerment for All. Inclusivity: Every member’s voice matters and representation is key. Support: We build networks that lift families, entrepreneurs and youth. Empowerment: We provide tools, education and opportunities to thrive. RISE is more than a slogan – it is a philosophy that shapes how we lead, serve and engage.
Is there an accomplishment within the organization that you are most proud of?
Several little successes, just thinking of how far we’ve come and where we’re heading. Interactions amongst our businesses and members, partnerships with the City’s DEI committee,
collaboration with the Airdrie CultureFest, participating at community events, allyship that is bringing us closer to all Airdronians, and the recognition that we are gaining from having representation at City Hall today.
What else would you like people to know about ABC?
ABC is a non-profit, non-religious and non-political organization. We are not affiliated to any one political party or country. Our members are not only Africans, as we embrace all persons who identify as Black. And, although primarily set up to cater to the growing socio-economic needs of the Black people, we are totally committed to our responsibilities to Airdrie as a whole, whether in our individual or collective capacities.
The ABC has a very strong and passionate management team that recognizes the place of building bridges, forming alliances and collaborating with other community groups and organizations, to increase reach and amplifying its message. To this end, ABC welcomes friends and allies outside of the Black community. We could not exist without them and continue to look forward to mutually beneficial relationships with all of our friends and partners.
Black History and Awards Gala
The Airdrie Black Community (ABC) launched its first awards ceremony in February 2025 to celebrate and recognize the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations that often go unnoticed, especially by the Black community itself. Inspired by the tireless efforts and dedication of Black community members, ABC aimed to:
- Highlight unsung heroes: Showcase the outstanding work of Black individuals and organizations making a positive impact in Airdrie.
- Promote representation: Provide a platform for Black voices, stories, and experiences to be celebrated and amplified.
- Foster community pride: Honour the achievements of Black residents, past and present, and inspire future generations.
- Celebrate diversity: Share the richness of Black cultures through live music, performances and festivities.
By hosting the awards ceremony in February, coinciding with Black History Month, ABC creates a meaningful connection to the broader celebration of Black heritage and achievements.
“The event serves as a testament to the power of community recognition and the importance of acknowledging the valuable contributions of Black individuals and organizations in Airdrie,” says ABC public relations officer Ejadamen Ogidan. “We invite friends, partners and the larger community to come and celebrate with us.”
Airdronians can expect an unforgettable evening of cultural elegance, live music, and performances, inspiration and celebration of Black history as the group honours the outstanding contributions and achievements of Black individuals and organizations in Airdrie and Canada, past and present.
The next gala will be held in February, 2026. Get more up-to-date information on ABC’s Instagram or Facebook pages.
Ejadamen Ogidan, Public Relations Officer, ABC
