OUR MISSION

The Lukasa Library's mission is to create a welcoming space in Ottawa where people can learn, celebrate, and share knowledge of African World History while empowering the city's Black community. Through a diverse collection of new and donated books on African, Caribbean and Black History, the library preserves and promotes Black Culture and heritage.

Roots in Ottawa

The Lukasa Library took root in February 2025 as a pillar of the Griot in Me Project, an initiative supported by the Association of Black Entrepreneurs and Professionals of Ottawa-Gatineau. Born from the vision of four determined Grade 10 students—Rakeb Phillipos, Najwa Adem, Nyla King, and Violet Lungo—the library was established to preserve our collective story.

Under the guidance of scholar and caretaker Dr. Clyde Ledbetter Jr., the library has grown into a sanctuary for cultural knowledge. Dr. Ledbetter’s realization that local heritage must be safeguarded for future generations transformed a student project into a permanent home for Black literature and history in the heart of Ottawa.

Najwa Adem

Youth CoOrdinator

Proud of her Ethiopian heritage, Najwa is passionate supporting the Lukasa Library's mission. She works on graphic design, creating posters, business cards, and website content, while also contributing to public outreach and event planning. Seeing the library grow has been an incredible opportunity, and she looks forward to continuing to help it expand.

Nyla King

Youth CoOrdinator

Nyla comes from both Dominican and Canadian backgrounds. She hopes to see the library continue to grow into a meaningful historical space that preserves and celebrates Black stories, hisotry, culture and voices for future generations.

Rakeb Philipos

Youth CoOrdinator

Coming from an Eritrean background, Rakeb focuses on advertising through social media and in -person outreach: whether it's crafting digital content or spreading the word directly. She looks forward to continue to grow in this role and finding new ways to contribute to a stronger, more connected Afro-Descendant community!

Violet Lungo

Youth CoOrdinator

Violet is of Angolan and Congolese heritage and enjoys bringing people together while creating welcoming experiences for the community. She has experience organizing events and helping build inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. She is passionate about fostering connection and making the community a welcoming and vibrant space for all.

The Heart of The Lukasa Library

Meet the visionary students and mentors whose dedication to education and Black heritage is shaping the future of Ottawa's community.

Andrew James

Assisted Archicist

Coming from a Kenyan Background, Andrew is dedicated to building up the library as an archivist and hopes to see it grow.

Dr. Clyde Ledbetter Jr.

As a scholar from Cheyney and Virginia Commonwealth Universities, Dr. Ledbetter guides our youth in safeguarding culture and heritage. His mentorship ensures that The Lukasa Library remains a sanctuary of knowledge for generations to come.

Community Impact

Supporting Our Donors

Egungun, Carl NIcholson,Clyde LEdbetter Jr., jackie Claxton & Mitchell Holder, Bob Dawson, Cairine Wilson Black EXCELLENCE club, Delta Pham, Maria Mckay, Theresa Lebane, A.B.E.P.O.G. , Rachel Dietrich-Thicket, Miss Coddett, Gina Leslie , Danielle James, Ottawa Black mental Health coalition, Rapheal Francis, Robin Browne, Faye Beaufort, Norma Domey , Brandon Bibby, Fareda Banda, CEtso, Claire williams and elizabeth Parchment, John Harewood, Prince badoe, sharpe family, Ayla Martin, Liza Volney, Nyla King, Paula Edwards, Sasha Hart, Abena Beloved Green, Adja Ba, Glaister Leslie, Jennifer Payne, Momen Ali, Zaneta Wilkinson, David Odumodu, Justin louis- jean, Les Amazones, Luc thermonvil, North grenvill ePublic Library, Onuwatchi Family, Parkdale united church, Patrick Slack, Robyn Maynard, Rosseta Sciortino, Yomi Pratt