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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