Afiwi Elevate
Sanaaj Mirrie
Oshawa
Sanaaj’s project grew from a vision to celebrate Black youth, culture, dance, and pride in Durham Region. When noise complaints ended the original waterfront plan, Sanaaj pivoted and created the region’s first African Caribbean Youth Showcase at the Regent Theatre. The showcase became a moment of belonging, visibility, and joy for youth and families who rarely see their culture honoured on such a stage.
A Year of Cultural Pride & Youth Power
Afiwi Elevate was originally called Groove by the Lake and was meant to take place at the Ajax waterfront. Still, noise complaints from nearby residents about the drums made it impossible to continue. Sanaaj pivoted to create Durham Region’s first African Caribbean Youth Showcase at the Regent Theatre in Oshawa.
For the first time, Black youth and families in Durham Region were able to perform at the Regent Theatre for the Arts in Oshawa. The community came out in full support to watch the youth proudly showcase their culture on stage. Especially in a time when many Black youth are going missing, the impact on the performers was significant. It fostered a sense of belonging and self-worth and demonstrated that their community stood with them.
Sanaaj learned that her community responds to excellence and embraces the education that comes from embracing traditional arts as a means of self-development and unity.
One challenge was the cost of executing the idea. Renting the theatre costs eight thousand dollars. Sanaaj reached out to Durham Region for funding, and they covered the theatre costs. She also formed new partnerships with local organizations in Durham Region and Bell Canada.
My dream has always been to be the change I want to see in my community, especially when it comes to preserving traditional cultural art forms.
Throughout the year, she learned that people see her as an inspiration and that she should embrace the positive impact she has had. She realized it is okay to be acknowledged for work that benefits others. She describes her approach as M.A.D., which stands for Make a Difference Together.
As a community leader, she has helped educate community members about the richness and worthiness of Black culture for celebration and elevation.
The experience created opportunities for additional funding, including a Bell Let’s Talk Community Grant and $100,000 in speaking engagements. She plans to continue growing as a speaker and storyteller.
The Regent Theatre has welcomed the project back for 2026, and Sanaaj is excited to elevate it further. Afiwi Elevate continues to grow, weaving cultural arts, youth leadership, and community pride into something lasting. Sanaaj’s work shows what is possible when culture is celebrated, youth are uplifted, and excellence is supported.
About Sanaaj Mirrie
As a high school dropout from Jane and Finch in the 2000s, Sanaaj Mirrie returned to education through the influence of positive role models and the cultural identity awareness gained from participating in a dance and drumming group. This transformative experience highlighted the importance of artistic engagement for youth development. Upon moving to the Durham region in the early 2000s, she noticed a significant lack of Afrocentric activities for young people. Determined to provide opportunities similar to those she had experienced, Sanaaj envisioned creating a space for Afro-Caribbean arts in the community.
Instagram: @afiwigroove
Facebook: @AFIWI Groove School
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