About the initiative
British Columbia is the Canadian province with the lowest representation of the Black population. As a result, it is often difficult for Black male students in particular to access the support they need.
The Black Male Initiative is designed to support UBC male students who self-identify as Black. It provides a confidential space on campus for members to connect to other Black male students, where they can share their lived experiences with one another and receive both peer and mentor support. See the list of past events held throughout the school year.
What the initiative offers
The initiative strives to support all Black male students during their time at UBC through the following:
- Regular gatherings for authentic group conversations
- Peer mentoring
- Social events
- Networking opportunities and community building
- Safe space for Black male students only
UBC students gather in the Global Lounge to learn about the Black Male Initiative.
How to participate
The initiative is open to Black male students only at the UBC Vancouver campus. If you’re interested in learning more or want to attend an event, please contact the Program Coordinator, Willie Moss, at willie.moss@ubc.ca.
Upcoming events
Get details about the next group meeting or social event.
Meet the Peer and Staff Mentors
Connect with a Black Male Initiative Peer or Staff Mentor for advice, information, or tips for navigating university life.
Kaishaun Carter
Kaishaun is a third-year student specializing in Finance at the Sauder School of Business. His hobbies include football and video games.
Email Kaishaun at kaishaun@student.ubc.ca for advice on time management, finances, internships, study habits, and developing relationships.
Makatendeka Chikumbu
Makatendeka is a first-year international Engineering student from Mutare Zimbabwe. He is deeply passionate about technology as a way to solve communities’ problems across the areas of healthcare, education, and agriculture. He’s also equally passionate about Dad jokes and enjoy getting to know people through humorous conversations ranging anywhere from memes to international economics.
Email Makatendeka at mchikumb@student.ubc.ca.
Amandus Mashamba
Amandus Mashamba is an Associate Student Recruiter-Advisor at UBC. He holds a Master of Educational Administration and Leadership from UBC where he extensively focused on transformative learning and the juxtaposition of neoliberal policies and social justice in public education systems within British Columbia and Tanzania.
Email Amandus at amandus.mashamba@ubc.ca.
Additional resources
- Equity, diversity, and inclusion resources
- Career resources for students of colour
- UBC Black student groups and mental health resources
If you have questions
Email the Program Coordinator, Willie Moss, at willie.moss@ubc.ca for more information about the initiative.