Posts tagged NDG

Audreia Fagan still laughs when she remembers the first time someone offered her a full-body massage. “I thought they were crazy,” she said. “I didn’t even know it was an industry.” Today, Fagan is the founder of Montreal Massotherapy Masters, a growing therapeutic massage practice helping Montrealers manage pain, relieve stress and reconnect with their bodies. But the path that led her there was anything but straightforward. Born and raised in downtown Montreal, Fagan grew up in the neighbourhoods around Westmount, Little Burgundy and Atwater. Her upbringing was shaped by the strength of her mother, who raised the family as …

NDG knows Renate Betts. Long before she put her name on a ballot, she was the neighbour organizing after-school programs at Westhaven Community Centre, the voice at board tables pushing for inclusion, and the steady hand at The Depot Community Food Centre making sure families could put food on the table. Now Betts is running for city councillor in Loyola with Transition Montréal, pitching something rare in politics: candour, cooperation, and a focus on basics that matter on our blocks. “I choose to serve the community,” she says to the CONTACT. “If City Hall is where I can make a …

A few weeks ago, I was providing the soundtrack and co-hosting WIBCA’s Cocktails & Soul soirée — an annual black-carpet affair that many consider the unofficial kickoff to gala season in Montreal’s Black community. It’s an evening of style, soul, and celebration, highlighting Black brilliance and excellence across generations. Each year, WIBCA presents awards to community members who go above and beyond in service to others. This year’s Golden Heart Volunteer Awards went to Erica Lapiste, Sonia Millet, and Doreen Jones. The organization’s board and staff have perfected the formula for bridging generations — honoring pioneers while nurturing future leaders. …

Michael Julien, co-founder of the Roots Cultural Association, long-time employee of McGill University and former co-host of CKUT’s Bhum Bhum Tyme has passed away in the country of his birth, Trinidad and Tobago. I first met “Uncle Mikey” in the summer of 1991 when we both worked at the Black Community Council of Quebec (BCCQ). He had taken a sabbatical from his work at McGill University and was exploring new paths. That summer, 2121 Old Orchard was alive with activity, as both seasoned and younger community members contributed to impactful projects. Mikey brought with him a quiet brilliance, shaped by …

Looking inside Montreal’s Silvertooth Gym, it’s clear this is more than just a place to work out. Here, movement, mindset, and muscle come together in a space that welcomes everyone—from beginners to fighters. Silvertooth Gym is in NDG on Saint Jacques and was opened in September 2022 by Phillipe Allaire, a professional Muay Thai fighter. Fun fact: Phillipe got the nickname Silvertooth after chipping a tooth during a fight in Thailand—and having it replaced with a silver one. (Gold Tooth Gym just wouldn’t hit the same.) I recently sat down with Adam Bienstock- Smith, one of Silvertooth’s certified fitness coaches, …

The 54th Barbados House Montreal Gala in Montreal was more than just another event; it was an extraordinary night filled with culture, community, and unity. Guests gathered to celebrate the our independence month of the republic of Barbados while contributing to a vital cause for our building and scholarship funds. Each year, the Barbados House Montreal Independence Galas draws together a diverse crowd that cherishes the island’s culture and the power of community support. The essence of the Barbadian spirit shone brightly throughout the evening, captivating everyone present. The gala was a tribute to Barbados’ rich history and cultural heritage. …

When speaking to Sharon Nelson, it is clear that a heart for community empowerment is her driving force. Her work as second Vice President of the Jamaica Association of Montreal has been applauded by community leaders and members alike. Just recently, she was honored with the special Golden Heart award in memory of the late Egbert Gaye for her work in community building. Now she is running for the NDG ward representative for the English School Board of Montreal (ESMB) elections this November. As she explains to the CONTACT, it wasn’t part of her original plan—but now, it’s a mission …

Nompumelelo Moyo (LJI) On the weekend of May 17-19, Montreal United will host its annual basketball tournament with various divisions for girls and boys. The tournament will be held at the Notre Dame College at 3791 Queen Mary Road, Montreal, H3V 1A8. This heart-warming event, formerly known as the Montreal United Invitational Basketball tournament, has been named the Lindsay A. Burnett tournament in honour of the late Lindsay Burnett, who passed away in 2021. Burnett, alongside Hugh Scarlett and Charles Boyce, started the tournaments and helped sponsor them. “A total of 40 teams from Toronto, USA and Montreal will be …

Joyce Moore March 14,2024, we would have been celebrating the 94th birthday of Joyce Moore. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joyce Moore, on February 12,2024 in Lasalle, Qc at the age of 93. She leaves behind her only child Desmond Moore, her only grandchild Michael Barnett (Tara Berry-Barnett), her great grand daughter Jayla, great grandson Mikey, her nieces,nephews and many friends. Joyce loved her family unconditionally. Her vibrant spirit, generosity and enduring love will be remembered by all who knew her.   Barbara Jean Thomas Barbara Thom as transitioned peacefully at her home, in …

Nompumelelo Moyo (LJI) The annual Monnaie Money Talent Show, a much-anticipated event in Montreal’s cultural calendar, returns this Saturday, February 24, at the Oscar Peterson Concert Hall, 7141 Sherbrooke Street West. Montrealers are all invited to attend, with doors opening at 6pm for an evening of performances and community celebration. Brian Smith, the event’s project coordinator, promises fresh acts, with dynamic performances that will keep audiences engaged and entertained. This event which has been running for 14 years is hosted by the Carrefour Jeunesse-emploi de CDN-NDG and the aim is to promote Black history month, financial education for youth in …