Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence
2026 Awards Gala
Sankofa is an Akan concept from Ghana that means to “go back and get it,” embodying the wisdom of learning from the past to build a better future. Just as pearls are unique in character and formed over time, the achievements of our community members reflect this same beauty and strength. This 30th Anniversary milestone theme invites us to connect to our roots, gather wisdom and strength from the past, and to use these lessons as we work to build a brighter collective future.
Join us for an evening of celebration, recognition, and community as we honour outstanding achievement and award $30,000 in scholarships.
When: February 15, 2026, 4:00 PM Reception, Dinner & Awards to follow.
Where: Liuna Station, 360 James St. N, Hamilton
Tickets: $125 adult, $1200 sponsored table
Empowering Our Community Through Education
Scholarships & Awards
In celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Reverend John C. Holland Awards Gala, the Hamilton Black History Council (HBHC) is proud to offer scholarships and awards recognizing excellence across our community.
$30,000 in scholarships and bursaries available:
- Youth Scholarships & Bursaries – Supporting elementary, secondary, post-secondary, and mature students
- Community Leadership Awards – Honouring achievement in business, community service, arts and culture, and emerging leadership
All nominees will be invited to attend the 2026 Awards Gala on Sunday, February 15, 2026, where winners will be announced.
Applications now open, submit yours before January 16, 2026.
Partner With Us
Sponsorship Opportunities
The 30th Anniversary Reverend John C. Holland Awards Gala celebrates Black excellence and community achievement in Hamilton. We invite businesses and organizations to join us in honouring outstanding individuals and supporting the next generation of leaders.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $800 to $20,000 and include benefits such as:
- Event tickets and premium seating
- Brand visibility through signage and program advertising
- Speaking and award presentation opportunities
- Media profile and community recognition
Your sponsorship helps make this milestone 30th anniversary celebration possible and supports our mission to recognize and uplift Hamilton’s African, Caribbean and Black communities.
Reverend John C. Holland
Our Namesake
“He started out as a newspaper boy, dreamed of becoming a minister and became the First African Canadian to be named “Citizen of the Year” in any community in Canada. We honour those who continue to work diligently in the spirit of Reverend John C Holland (1882-1954).
Since 1996, the Reverend John C Holland Awards have celebrated excellence in Hamilton’s Black community. The Awards celebrate and recognize the academic achievements and aspirations of Black youth by offering scholarships and support to assist them in accessing post-secondary education. The Awards also celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our community and recognize the contributions of local Black leaders to the social, economic, and cultural life of our city. Hosted by the Hamilton Black History Council, and with the support of community partners, the annual event is attended by hundreds of individuals and organizations and is a cornerstone of Black History Month in Hamilton.
Support the Reverend John C. Holland Awards
Black Futures Fund
Your contribution to the Black Futures Fund helps provide scholarships and bursaries to deserving students in Hamilton’s African, Caribbean and Black communities. Every donation makes a difference in supporting the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
Ways to give:
- Donate directly to the Black Futures Fund
- Make a general donation to the Hamilton Black History Council
- Purchase a program ad for the 2026 Awards Gala
Together, we’re building brighter futures.
