About BABA
Who We Are
Building A Black Archive (BABA) is a grassroots community initiative dedicated to building Black archives in Canada. We are proud to launch our first archival collection entitled “Hip Hop and the Black Experience in Ontario”, focusing on Canadian Hip Hop and Black Cultural Production & Activism from 1980-2010.
Our work also includes running a community archival program engaging Black youth ages 18-29 to build archives through writing, podcasting and more.
The BABA Team is available for speaking engagements, presentations and project work in relation to Black Histories in Canada. Reach out to us at hello@buildingablackarchive.com.
The Team
This Is Us
Jonsaba Jabbi
Jonsaba (she/her) is an emerging writer, storyteller, burgeoning archivist and communications coordinator born and raised in Toronto. As a Co-Founder and Project Director of BABA, she hopes to engage in archives that center the histories and experiences of Black people in Canada. When she’s not working at her full-time day job or archiving, you can find Jonsaba watching retro sitcoms, reality shows and on occasion writing (when she can).
Alannah Johnson
Alannah (she/her) is a writer, publisher, Black archivist, burgeoning bodies advocate and DEI educator. In 2019, she co-founded the BABA project along with Jonsaba Jabbi. As a Project Director, her work centres on unearthing Black diasporic stories, remapping geographies and empowering youth through historical exploration. When she is not working; she enjoys travelling, daydreaming and building her plus-size fashion closet.
Kaysie Quansah
Kaysie (she/her) is the Administrative Coordinator for the BABA team and a lover of all things Black. When she isn't supporting her superstar team, you can find her catching flights (not feelings), dancing to the latest DJ Puffy mix and charging her crystals in the moonlight.
Jessica Kasiama
Jessica Kasiama is a Congolese writer and editor, currently living in Tkaranto. In her writing, she is curious about themes of love and futurity.