Celebrate Black History Month by joining us on February 6, 2026 for a vital exploration of the contributions, experiences and achievements of Black Canadians in soccer!
Throughout the 20th and 21st century, the sport of soccer has grown alongside immigration, becoming an important tool for newcomers to adapt to Canadian life. Despite soccer being touted as a more diverse and inclusive sport, however, public acts of racism persist at both the recreational and professional levels. How have Black Canadians confronted these barriers and paved the way for new generations to participate in soccer at every level?
Join us in the Athletic Centre Sports Gym from 12 - 1 p.m. on February 6 for a discussion with special guests, moderated by former Varsity Blues soccer player Alicia Lashley.
Find inspiration in the candid conversation about their experiences, including challenges and opportunities, and learn more about how Black Canadians continue to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion across the Canadian soccer landscape.
Speakers
Alicia Lashley - Moderator
Alicia Lashley works as a Manager of Sponsorship and Strategic Partnership with the University of Toronto where she manages partnerships with brands including Under Armour and Booster Juice as well as local community partners. As a former University-level soccer player, she also coached at all levels from ages 2 - 25.
A big believer in the power of community and collaboration, Alicia has spent the last two decades supporting community outreach through sport including strategic partnerships with professional soccer teams and FIFA U-20 World Cup Games as well as building sports recreation programs across North America. In her spare time, Alicia volunteers with Black youth as a mentor and loves to travel and watch sports with family and friends.
Mike Yat
Mike Yat is an award-winning real estate entrepreneur and the founder of Yat Group Real Estate, a firm built around tailored advisory services and data-driven strategies designed to help clients navigate complex real estate decisions with confidence. Mike has also served in governance and advisory capacities with organizations including the SIPO Foundation and the Black Health Professional Network, reflecting his ongoing commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community advancement.
Committed to long-term community impact, Mike is a founding supporter of the Yat Family Scholarship Award—the first scholarship of its kind dedicated to supporting high-performing student-athletes of colour at the University of Toronto. Alongside his partners, he is working to grow the initiative into a permanent endowment and expand its reach over time.
Woody Bailey
Woody Bailey is the founder and chief technical instructor of the Woody Bailey Soccer School. Woody is of the belief that anyone who so desires should play soccer. Woody and his staff coordinate training sessions with a passion for the game matched by an enthusiastic and supportive attitude for helping players develop their skills to play at their desired level.
Born in Jamaica, Woody played with a range of clubs, from Reno F.C. in Jamaica to the Ottawa Pioneers and Kitchener Spirit before opening his school. The Woody Bailey Soccer School is based in Mississauga and aims to impart superior long-term-technical skills to players in order to enhance their long-term development into the ranks of the world’s best.