About Us
Black History Matters offers on-site presentations that spotlight the legacy and achievements of Black Canadians.
Through imaginative activities and age-specific content, we promote anti-racism for K-7 learners, transforming traditional lessons into vibrant, thought-provoking classroom experiences.
We aren't just teaching history; we are sharing a journey that is inspiring, honest, and full of life. In 2026 the Black History Matters Canada Society was established to expand the program and continue inspiring learners through the richness of Black Canadian history.
Our Story
Founded in 2018 Black History Matters began when Giselle Clarke-Trenaman recognized a lack of Black Canadian narratives in BC's elementary schools. Wanting her daughter and all kids to know that Black excellence is everywhere, she started a mission to build a program that would grow right along with them.
With over 30 years in the theatre world, Giselle uses her creative roots to make sure every session feels warm and welcoming for students and teachers alike.
Since 2018 this program has operated under the umbrella of Presentation House Theatre, which has been instrumental in enabling it to grow from 1 Facilitator reaching 300 students to 6 Facilitators reaching over 6,200 students in two months (2026). Black History Matters and its methodology are founded in PHT’s value of using creative expression to build bridges between cultural groups. As a Black mom living in BC, Giselle uses her own life experiences to guide the curriculum and pick the best materials. This makes our presentations truly heartfelt and engaging—not just for the participants, but for our facilitators too.
What We Do
A sample of Student Wawa Aba projects and BHM activities
Brooksbank Elementary Gr. 5
A gift from a student after a Sankofa presentation
Featuring projects from the Wawa Aba Program
2026 Fundraiser display
Guest speaker Krystle Dos Santos
(l-r) Facilitators Tony Lanier, Giselle Clarke-Trenaman & Alisha Davidson
Books ready for distribution!
Guest Speaker - Odera Igbokwe
A presentation for the Girl Guides of Canada
Stamp project - Gr 5/6 - Brooksbank Elementary, North Vancouver
Inspiration projects - Gr 5 & Gr 6
Inspiration projects - Gr 6/7 & Gr 6
Stamp project - Gr 6 - Fraser Academy, Vancouver
Our Vision
Guest speaker Troy McLaughlin
Guided by the Sankofa bird, we value the past to shape a better tomorrow.
Our sessions build curiosity and empathy through history. We feel that every child deserves to learn the full story of Canada, including the voices of all its people.
Our Black facilitators and speakers, provide vital role models and a true look at our heritage. This is key to building a fairer world.
We trust that teaching youth with honesty helps remove hidden biases. By reaching young minds today, we can create a kinder and more inclusive society for everyone.
Our Team
Linnea Antos
Britney Buren
Giselle Clarke-Trenaman
Alisha Davidson
Anthony Lanier
Ismael Ndiaye
For more information about Black History Matters Canada Society click here
Our Guiding Motifs
Our workshop symbols are Adinkra motifs. Adinkra serve as graphic symbols for traditional wisdom and profound ideas. Developed by the Akan people around the 18th century, they reflect rich African history. These icons offer a deep visual language to convey enduring values and build social bonds.
Click here to learn more about Adinkra symbols.
Sankofa
A sign representing the value of reflecting on history to shape tomorrow.
Mate Maise
A symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and prudence.
Wawa Aba
The wawa tree seed. A token of resilience, strength, and steady endurance.
Dwennimmen
Dweninmmen means “the horns of a ram.” It represents strength (in mind, body, and soul), humility, wisdom, and learning.
Nea Onnim
A symbol of knowledge, life-long education, and continued quest for knowledge.