On 15 February 2025, the Osgoode chapter of Black Law Students’ Association (BLSA) won the coveted Large Chapter of the Year Award at the thirty-fourth BLSA Canada National Conference. Spearheaded by our president, Chioma Oriuwa, we collected the glass trophy in front of over 600 students. With “God’s Plan” blasting, we had a three-minute celebration on stage, happy that our work at BLSA Osgoode has finally been recognized.
To quote from the Osgoode Hall Law School newsroom, “Each year, BLSA Canada confers the Chapter of the Year Award to a chapter that exemplifies the organization’s mandate and vision. Common law chapters are evaluated on their efforts in community outreach, social engagement, pre-law mentorship, academic support, professional development, teamwork, cultural awareness, and advocacy for civil and social justice.”
The theme for this year was “Innovating Today: Impacting Tomorrow,” which could be witnessed through the wide variety of events and initiatives that centred this theme. From community outreach events, such as the ongoing BLSA highschool programs, where we talk to and inspire Black high school students, to hosting various BLSA alumni events that connect Osgoode community members with various Black alumni in different law fields. More information about over fifty events can be found in the award-winning BLSA Osgoode magazine.
BLSA Osgoode thanks its executive members, general members, allies, and supporters. The Large Chapter of the Year Award would not have been possible without any of us. Here is a quote from our president to wrap this up:
“Since May 2024, I’ve had the privilege of leading BLSA Osgoode as President. Under my leadership, we’ve successfully executed 65+ events and initiatives—with even more to come! From advocacy to mentorship and community engagement, we remain dedicated to empowering Black law students and fostering a more inclusive, supportive legal community.”
Here’s to 2025-2026 BLSA Osgoode and beyond!