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GCABC members , we are taking the lead within BCOCCA and are researching the possibility of having a unique seniors residence to meet our community needs ." This project is close to Monifa ' s heart and with its pursuit , she is continuing her passion for problem-solving , learning and teaching .
Another passion is travelling and exploring . She ' s had the opportunity to work and vacation throughout the beautiful Province of BC and now that she has the time , post-Covid , she will continue exploring more of BC and Canada .
Visits to Grenada , spending time with family and friends are always special . " I love walking and swimming on our world famous Grand Anse Beach where I grew up ," Monifa shares . " Watching the sunset from the beach is the perfect way to end my days . I enjoy travelling throughout the Island chatting with people from all walks of life , getting my fish at Fish Fridays and overall enjoying my Grenadian culinary and partying experience ." In one sentence , Monifa describes Grenada as : " Simply paradise , with great history , cuisine , spices , lovely beaches and beautiful people ."
Grenada remains at the front of Monifa ' s mind and her dedication to the GCABC reflects this . It is now 23 years since the Association ' s first meeting and , " I am proud to say that although we have a very small population of Grenadians in BC , our Association is recognized and respected by the Caribbean community and the community at large , with membership of non and Grendian ancestry ," Monifa shared . They Association is meeting and exceeding its goals and objectives which are :
( 1 ) to develop and maintain a sense of unity among Grenadians in BC ( 2 ) to act as a resource for Grenadians in BC
( 3 ) to promote awareness of Grenada within the community and at large ( 4 ) to provide outreach programs for members within the community .
The GCABC also works cooperatively with other cultural associations and organizations to build relationships and make meaningful contributions to the community . Monifa will like to expand the GCABC ' s membership base and get Canadians of Grenadian descent and friends of Grenada to play a more active role in the Association
For the past 23 years , at every opportunity , Monifa and the GCABC have tirelessly showcased their beautiful Island to communities in British Columbia and beyond . They participate in Multicultural and Caribbean Festivals , host their annual Independence Banquet , organize Food Festivals and cultural performances , all of which are well attended by the public . Their fundraising events support charities in Grenada and Canada . The organization ' s work , presence and members ' involvement in their individual in BC communities present them with on-going opportunities to showcase Grenada . Highlighting Grenada ' s culture is important to Monifa . " Sometimes I am in awe as I look at some of our senior members , learning to play and mastering the Steel Pan ," she said , " or our younger members writing short plays about Grenada ' s culture and lifestyle , and performing them in front of appreciative audiences ." This continues to be a source of pride for her and members of the GCABC .
The Grenada Association is affiliated with other Caribbean and non-Caribbean organizations and agencies in BC . " We consider our GCABC to be a true multicultural organization . Our members have held executive positions in many organizations such as British Columbia