Waterloo Region—Wilfrid Laurier University student Vanessa Nkansah-Okoree’s artwork will appear on a Grand River Transit (GRT) bus throughout February to mark Black History Month.

The Canadian Caribbean Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR) unveiled the artwork during its Black History Month launch event at the University of Waterloo’s Federation Hall.

Nkansah-Okoree’s art conveys that strength comes from unity, but unity does not mean uniformity. “Diversity within the Black community is often overlooked, and my goal is to highlight the richness of that diversity, showcasing how we are united in our experiences but unique in our identities,” says Nkansah-Okoree, a Waterloo resident currently working on her Master’s degree. She hopes the wrap helps challenge stereotypical portrayals of Black people and promote more inclusive representation.

The CCAWR partnered with the Region of Waterloo to organize the bus wrap.