UsNow 2025 Conference Recap

Suzan Richards is the founder and artistic director of The Cultural Arts Studio, School of Afro-Caribbean Dance- a space where folk dances from Africa & The Caribbean can be shared and celebrated. 

Formally trained in Ballet Jazz at The Montreal Jazz Dance Academy and the West Can Folk Performing Company in Montreal, she is an inspired performing artist, seasoned teacher and choreographer with cultural roots from Dominica. 

Suzan is a Professional Artist & Arts Educator with the Arts Alive program at the National Arts Centre  and sits on the Board of Directors of Multicultural Arts In Schools and Communities (MASC) a local non profit organization that offers schools and communities arts experiences led by professional artists that awaken the creative process, deepen cultural awareness, encourage engagement, and give vivid demonstration of Canada’s diversity.

Known as “Teacher Suzan”, she has touched the lives of thousands of youth through her studio of 33 years by her philanthropy and her dedication towards the community. 

She is committed to the preserving and sharing of Afro-Caribbean culture through dance and believes that everyone should have the opportunity to dance regardless of age, fitness level, or ability.

Suzan is the proud recipient of many awards her most recent being a 2022 -100 Most Accomplished Black Canadian Women Award by the Honourable Dr Jean Augustine.

Chef Resa Solomon-St. Lewis is a mom, wife, and award-winning chef and entrepreneur known for her expertise in Caribbean cuisine. As the founder of Baccanalle, she brings the vibrant flavours and rich heritage of the Caribbean to life through catering, artisan products, and prepared meal offerings.

In 2025, Chef Resa was appointed to the prestigious National Arts Centre Resident Chef Program, showcasing Caribbean food at one of Canada’s most celebrated venues. She has been featured by Food Network Canada and Baccanalle enjoys wonderful reviews from their clients and accolades from Foodie critics and influencers. She represented the High Commission for Trinidad & Tobago at Ottawa’s Embassy Chef Challenge, where she won both the Championship and People’s Choice awards. Through Baccanalle, she expertly blends traditional Caribbean flavours with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that are as innovative as they are flavourful.

Chef Resa is a dedicated community leader and mentor. She has played a key role in offering employment opportunities to African, Black, and Caribbean (ABC) youth and young adults, and serves as a guest lecturer at Algonquin College and the Ottawa Mission. She also co-founded Afrotechture, an initiative designed to promote economic opportunities for Black artisans across Canada.

Chef Resa Solomon-St. Lewis invites you to cook with her — catch her culinary show “In the Kitchen with Resa” on RogersTV or on YouTube!