Young Black girls are finding their voices and community through the newly founded Black Queen group, initiated by Eden Belle O'Neill, who was inspired by her experiences at the Empowered Black Girl conference held last year. This Vancouver-based initiative aims to create a safe and empowering space for Black youth, addressing important issues from mental health to self-identity.
O'Neill, recognizing the lack of venues for Black girls to discuss the specific challenges they face, decided to launch Black Queen post-conference. "Through empowering others, I empower myself and push myself to do more," O'Neill shared, highlighting her vision for the group.
The Black Queen group hosts bi-monthly meetings where members gather to share their experiences and discuss pressing concerns. Both Alex Anokoro, 17, and Rania Ribi, 18, have joined as volunteers, contributing their time to support their peers. Ribi noted the power of community within the group: "During discussions, girls seem to open up and talk about their personal issues or feelings, showing the community Eden has created is very much understood and comfortable." Anokoro echoed this sentiment, stating, "The members understand the events they participate in easily because it is organized by someone their age. The Black Queen group made me feel visible."
The initiative not only fosters dialogue but also equips its members with tools for self-affirmation. The group has created affirmation cards with empowering phrases, such as "I am proud of my heritage" and "I am capable." These cards serve as daily reminders for the girls, reinforcing their self-esteem and pride.
Reflecting on the group's impact, Ribi mentioned how discussions have helped her feel more confident to express her feelings. "We realize we are not alone in facing these problems; everyone faces similar issues," she explained.
O'Neill's commitment to supporting young Black girls has not gone unnoticed. At the beginning of February 2025, she was invited to speak at the Canadian Summit on Black Communities, demonstrating the reach and influence of her work. Further solidifying the sustainability of the Black Queen group, O'Neill was awarded the Youth Power grant from the Michael Jean Foundation, worth CAD 5,000, last October. This funding allows the group to continue its mission of supporting Black adolescent girls across Canada.
With the grant, O'Neill hopes to expand their initiatives, ensuring even more young women can benefit from the resources and community the Black Queen group offers. The importance of such organizations is immense, providing not just community, but also identity reinforcement for young women of color.
Initiatives like Black Queen highlight the necessity of nurturing spaces for marginalized youth, allowing for shared experiences and growth. O'Neill's dedication is paving the way for others, demonstrating how youth-led movements can inspire change and support within their communities.