Empowering Futures: TAIBU community health centre's culturally affirming financial services for Blac

Prosper Canada is dedicated to supporting Black Canadians through the Expanding Financial Empowerment for Black Canadians project. One notable initiative is the work of TAIBU Community Health Centre.

About TAIBU
TAIBU Community Health Centre serves Black-identifying and racialized individuals in the Greater Toronto Area, providing access to primary care, health promotion, and disease prevention programs in a culturally affirming environment. For TAIBU, culturally affirming means listening, building trust, and fostering deep relationships with clients and the community. It also involves understanding clients' traditions and leveraging the philosophies of Ubuntu and Nguzo Saba, the "Seven Principles" of Kwanzaa.

A holistic approach to wellbeing
TAIBU’s vision of holistic health means that well-being is not just about treating physical ailments but also about addressing the practical challenges that impact everyday life. For example, their social prescribers connect individuals to non-medical support services, such as financial advice, housing services, and exercise classes, to address emotional or practical needs that impact health. In line with this approach, TAIBU partnered with LogicalOutcomes to explore ways to develop a culturally affirming financial coaching program model.
The first phase involved researching existing efforts in culturally affirming financial empowerment services for Black communities. Prosper Canada, with the generous support of the Definity Foundation, supported this research component. TAIBU embarked on a comprehensive investigation to answer two pivotal questions:

1. What are existing examples of Afrocentric models or culturally affirming practices in financial empowerment globally, and how can these be adapted or integrated into Canadian contexts?
2. What are some ways that Black Canadian/African people already address their financial needs?

Insights from the research
TAIBU’s research approach was both robust and community centered. It included:

• Literature review: Delving into global and local trends in financial empowerment for Black communities.
• Client surveys: Gathering real-life insights on experiences with financial resources and understanding personal definitions of financial empowerment.
• Staff and key informant interviews: Drawing on the lived experiences of TAIBU’s team and experts across Canada to uncover barriers and potential solutions.

Key findings
TAIBU's research revealed several critical insights:

• Systemic barriers: Historical injustices and systemic racism have fostered financial exclusion and mistrust in traditional financial institutions.
• Cultural relevance: Mainstream financial services often miss the mark by being too Eurocentric, failing to resonate with the cultural contexts of Black communities.
• Holistic approach: Effective interventions require a holistic approach that integrates financial literacy, mentorship, community support, and policy advocacy.
• Community-led solutions: Culturally tailored programs, peer support networks, and partnerships with Black-led organizations are essential for building trust and empowering individuals.

What’s next?
TAIBU will publish their detailed research report in April. This report will not only shed light on the systemic challenges but also highlight community-driven solutions that pave the way for financial empowerment tailored to Black Canadians.
 
Join the movement:
Be part of this transformative journey by staying informed and engaged. Follow TAIBU Community Health Centre on Instagram and Facebook for updates and mark your calendars for the report release. Together, we can build a future where financial empowerment is accessible, culturally affirming, and transformative for all.