We all belong to one race, that is the “Human race”- Colleen’s contributions for inclusive communities

Colleen Belle, Coordinator of the Welcoming Communities’ program at ISANS since 2020 (and formerly the Facilitator of the ‘Workplace Culture’ program since 2019), has dedicated her career to fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers for immigrants in Nova Scotia. Her journey, rooted in her Barbadian heritage, has led her to become a powerful advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in a province with a complex history of racial tensions.

“I was born in Barbados. When I moved to Nova Scotia, I recognized the difficulty that many Black immigrants faced in settling here, as well as the complex history yet valuable contributions of historic Black communities.  I wanted to have a positive impact on efforts to foster a sense of unity and address the injustices experienced by these marginalized groups,” shares Colleen, reflecting on her motivation to tackle systemic racism and social exclusion faced by Black migrants and historic Black communities in Nova Scotia.

Colleen’s work extends beyond workshops and training sessions. In May 2023, she presented “Celebrating our Black Heritage: Uniting People of African Descent” at the Africentric Conference 2023, emphasizing the importance of honouring African heritage. Her involvement in various committees, including the Anti-Racism Charter in Recreation and the Nova Scotia policing review engagement advisory committee, demonstrates her commitment to systemic change.

“My mission is to encourage unity and minimize the barriers faced by newcomers by focusing on empowerment and inclusivity,” Colleen explains. “I aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and become their best selves. That’s my way of giving back.”

In the Spring and Summer of 2024, she facilitated a collaborative workshop series between ISANS and Nova Scotia Health, training 37 “Change Champions” to address racism and discrimination in the workplace. This initiative aligned with Nova Scotia’s Health Equity framework and EDIRA principles.

Colleen’s Christian beliefs drive her commitment to creating a more inclusive world. “I offer a non-judgmental environment that encourages individuals to share their experiences freely, promoting empowerment and mutual respect among participants,” she says. “We are all part of the same human race, deserving of dignity and understanding.”

Through her work with various organizations across Nova Scotia, Colleen has significantly enhanced her understanding of diverse communities’ lived experiences. Her collaborative efforts with government bodies, Chambers of Commerce, educational institutions, service providers, and various community organizations have led to the implementation of intercultural competence and EDI training programs, fostering safer learning environments and addressing the complexities of diversity and inclusivity. Since fall 2020, Collen has delivered over 225 workshops and presentations to over 92 different organizations and groups across Nova Scotia.

As Colleen continues her mission to unite the human race, her work serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive Nova Scotia, where all individuals, regardless of their background, can find a welcoming community to call home.