Black History Matters with Giselle Clarke-Trenaman

Since 2017, Giselle Clarke-Trenaman has been educating students in Greater Vancouver about the rich, essential, and too often under-taught history of Black communities in British Columbia and across Canada. As the founder and lead presenter of Black History Matters, she has created engaging, age-appropriate educational experiences that bring Black Canadian history to life through storytelling, dialogue, and community connection.

Black History Matters builds on Giselle’s established classroom work by offering in-class and online learning experiences for elementary students led by Black educators, artists, and community leaders. Rooted in both education and theatre, the program is designed not only to inform, but to spark critical thinking, meaningful reflection, and conversations that continue beyond the classroom.

With a professional background in theatre production and stage management, Giselle Clarke-Trenaman brings creativity, clarity, and depth to this work. Her leadership has helped Black History Matters grow into a respected and expanding program committed to ensuring Black Canadian history is taught year-round with the care, visibility, and seriousness it deserves.