In the African Canadian communities, the intricate web of substance use, addiction, suicide, and mental health challenges has created a multifaceted barrier to achieving holistic wellness. Cultural nuances, historical factors, and systemic inequities intersect to amplify the complexity of these issues, underscoring the pressing need for tailored interventions. The current fragmented approach to addressing substance use, addiction, and mental health fails to adequately consider the unique dynamics of this community, hindering the development of effective pathways to wellness.

The lack of a comprehensive strategy not only perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health but also impedes individuals’ ability to seek and access appropriate support. Recognizing the urgency of this matter, the ACGC-SASMR-2024 conference is convened to address these gaps. By bringing together diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise, the conference aims to dissect the root causes, cultural implications, and systemic challenges associated with substance use, addiction, suicide, and mental health within the African Canadian context. Through collaborative efforts, we seek to forge new paths to wellness that are culturally informed, community-driven, and holistically transformative, laying the groundwork for a healthier future.