Surrey is not short of exemplary individuals, with an upcoming returning event spotlighting excellence within the city’s Black community.

Black in BC: Celebrating Black Excellence will be returning this year for the third time on Feb. 7, during Black History Month, to showcase and highlight individuals who have exemplified “Black excellence” in the last year. While held in Surrey, the province’s city with the largest Black population, the event is open to all and will highlight the work of Black Canadians throughout the province and country.

The evening, organized by non-profit DIVERSEcity, will honour the community, with an opportunity to share in music, food, dance, hear from inspirational speakers and so much more for the free event.

The aim of the night is “to celebrate Black talent, cultures and achievements in Canada, while creating space for connection and learning.”

While Black Excellence Day was Jan. 15, this event comes shortly after the day and during Black History Month which is every February. This month was chosen to highlight Black history because the second week of the month holds the birthdays of former U.S. president Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, who were both instrumental in the liberation of Black people in the U.S.

With speakers such as poet Elliott Slinn, entertainment by Ndidi Cascade and traditional Jamaican cuisine, the night will also bring a chance to highlight specific individuals during the Black Brilliance Awards that will be handed out the night-of.

Taking place Friday, Feb. 7 at Surrey Arts Centre from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. To attend the evening is free but online registration is recommended, at Eventbrite’s website.