27th Annual Martin Luther King Celebration

MLK is Back and Bigger than ever!
Join us for the 27th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Awards & Scholarship Celebration on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Canada Event Centre, 300 Water Street, Whitby.

This year’s theme, “From Dreamer to Torchbearer,” invites our community to reimagine the future through Dr. King’s lens of justice, unity, and courageous leadership. This transformational evening brings together over 2,000 guests in an inspiring and empowering celebration of culture, achievement, and purpose.

Experience an unforgettable program featuring:

• Dynamic keynote and guest speakers : Dr Jaime Kowlessar (USA) committed to advancing equity and social change and Dr Gina Spivey-Brown First Female President of Oakwood University, Alabama, USA
• Powerful musical and artistic performances by acclaimed choirs namely Perpetual Praise; MLK 150 Mass Choir; Renowned Opera Singer Christina Smith, Grand Champion of the CNE 2025 Rising Star Talent Competition , Josiah Hibbs; CAA Steel Pan Ensemble & Choir, Spoken-Word Artist and Dancers bringing Dr. King’s dream to life through movement.
• Scholarship presentations that uplift and equip promising young leaders from diverse communities
• Honouring outstanding changemakers who exemplify Dr. King’s principles of service, courage, and unity
• Exhibition / Display of Cultural Arts and Entrepreneurship

This celebration continues a 27-year tradition of partnership with generous sponsors, local communities , universities, colleges and schools. Together, we have championed education and empowerment — awarding numerous EFCCC MLK scholarships and supporting youth who are ready to lead in fields ranging from STEAM to the Green Economy.

As the challenges facing young people grow, so does our mission. This year, we are expanding our MLK Scholarships, Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurial Initiatives to help more students step confidently into their calling as innovators, bridge-builders, and torchbearers for justice.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening of hope, culture, legacy, and forward-thinking action.
Come be inspired. Come be renewed.
Come help light the path for the next generation.