'To be young, gifted & black, oh what a lovely precious dream… '

"I had been feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness and loss at the tragic events that had taken place and this song just lifted my spirits and reminded me that, as a community, we have so many amazing people and we've done so many amazing things that we needed to bring the focus back on that," Kevin explains.

That pivotal moment gave birth to the popular and aptly titled "Young, Gifted & Black" celebration, which has become one of the main annual events marking Black History Month in Montreal, and is now in its 4th year.

"The first year was a little intimidating. I jumped into organizing this event and a month before it was to come to fruition, I was like… what did I get myself into?" says Kevin with a chuckle. "But it all worked out and the community responded with enthusiasm."

Featuring inspirational performances in drama, music, dance and spoken word, the event showcases exciting young people who are bringing positive energy, smarts, style and talent to Montreal. Not only is "Young, Gifted & Black" a fun event, but it promotes non-violence, cultural diversity and donates funds to charitable organizations and worthy youth causes. Kevin uses the word "edutainment" to describe the event. "It allows people to have fun and celebrate the black community, while educating them about our history. Sometimes, black people don't know black history; let alone white people."

Events like 'Black, Gifted & Black', in conjuction with Black History Month in general, give the black community the opportunity to highlight the positive and squeeze out the negative.

"As people we can be respected for our contributions and that's important for our young people to develop a sense of pride in who they are and where they come from," says Kevin.

The St. Henri/Little Burgundy community organizer looks forward to the day when the annual event will become a two-day event, so even more money can be raised for non-profit groups.

<@Ri>This year's 'Young, Gifted & Black' event takes place on Saturday, February 2, at 8 p.m. at The Oscar Peterson Hall (7141 Sherbrooke West). Tickets are $20 and are available at the Box Office (514-848-4848 and Admission (514-790-1245). This year's theme is 'African Kings and Queens… Ancient Legends".