Keynote Speakers for 2026
Leslie McCurdy
Performing Artist/Playwright/Producer, Li'l Ol" Me Productions
Recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her artistry, Leslie McCurdy, who has performed internationally for over 28 years. A playwright, actor, singer, dancer, poet and teacher, with an Honors B.F.A. in dance with teaching certification from the University of Michigan, Leslie served as choreographic and teaching assistant to Judith Jamison, of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, during several of her Detroit Residencies, and was slated to go to New York to apprentice with the Ailey Company when she literally tripped, fractured her hip, and fell into acting. She has many stage, film and TV credits but is most "famous" for the one-woman plays that she writes and performs. The Spirit of Harriet Tubman, her first play, was a finalist for a Canadian Chalmers Award for Best New Play for Young Audiences and was performed at The 2011 National Black Theatre Festival in North Carolina, and the inaugural Paul Robeson Art is a Weapon Theatre Festival in London England. Her second play, Things My Fore-Sisters Saw, featuring, Viola Desmond, was filmed for TV and ran on the Bravo Network in Canada. Leslie's play about the great jazz singer, Billie Holiday, entitled, Lady Ain't Singin' No Blues, was recently showcased in New York City and begins touring in 2026. Her newest play, a full musical entitled The Darktown Strutters Ball, in Orangeville Ontario in 2024 to rave reviews. She is lauded for the "brilliance" of her works and the message of social consciousness that is instilled through them. She also finds time for volunteer work at home and sits on the Boards of Directors of several non-profit organizations.
Oluwatosin Akinbinu
Executive Director Black Kids in Action
Oluwatosin Akinbinu is a community leader, youth advocate, and legal professional dedicated to empowering Black youth through mentorship, leadership development, and access to opportunity. Born in the United Kingdom and raised in Nigeria, her early experiences shaped her passion for addressing systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities.
She is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Black Kids in Action (BKIA), a youth development organization focused on bridging gaps between Black youth and the Canadian system. Through BKIA, she has led impactful initiatives including mentorship and leadership programs, career exploration, academic enrichment, youth-led micro-grants, and community activities such as theatre productions, soccer tournaments, and summer camps; empowering hundreds of young people.
With a strong legal background, Oluwatosin integrates advocacy, education, and research to advance equity and opportunity. She has collaborated with organizations such as the Windsor Public Library and St. Clair College on youth-focused research, particularly addressing early parenthood and crime prevention. She also facilitates workshops that educate youth especially newcomers on the legal system, helping them understand their rights and make informed decisions.
In addition to her community work, she serves as legal counsel, providing guidance and mentorship to youth navigating complex systems. She is also the author of the upcoming book Life of an Immigrant, which highlights resilience and growth within the immigrant experience.
Oluwatosin continues to inspire through her leadership, community impact, and commitment to empowering the next generation. She is also a devoted wife, mother of four, and mentor.