This year marked the third year that FKB Media Solutions had the privilege of handling publicity for the TIFF Black Excellence Brunch, and what a year it was.

When I first joined the team, the brunch was already a meaningful celebration of Black talent in the screen industry. Since then, I have watched it grow in size, profile and influence. Today, it is considered one of the hottest invitations during the Toronto International Film Festival.

The TIFF Black Excellence Brunch presented by RBC and supported by Maxscene has become more than an event. It is a space where Black creators, executives, emerging talent and industry leaders can celebrate one another, build relationships and have important conversations about the future of Black storytelling.

Every year, the excitement grows. The guest list gets stronger. The conversations become even more relevant. The media interest continues to build.

This year, we received the most media coverage in the history of the brunch. Coverage ranged from CP24 to CBC to The Hollywood Reporter, along with Black community, entertainment and industry media. Seeing the event receive that level of attention was incredibly rewarding.

As a former television news producer, I understand how difficult it can be to break through the noise during TIFF. Hundreds of screenings, red carpets, premieres and celebrity appearances compete for media attention. For the TIFF Black Excellence Brunch to distinguish itself and attract this calibre of coverage says a great deal about what the event has become.

It is now a moment that people do not want to miss.

This year was also especially meaningful for me personally. My daughter, Myana, joined me as my assistant on the red carpet.

That was a true proud mama moment.

There is something powerful about having your daughter beside you while you are doing the work you have spent years building. She had the opportunity to see what happens behind the scenes, from welcoming media and managing interviews to responding to the many moving parts that come with a major TIFF event.

Having Myana there reminded me that our work is also part of our legacy. Our children see the long hours, the sacrifices and the persistence. It was wonderful for her to also experience the excitement, the relationships and the results.

None of this happens without an exceptional team.

Working with TIFF Vice President of People and Culture Marsha John Greenwood and Event Coordinator Kirsten Rezek has been amazing. They are true professionals who understand both the vision and the countless details required to bring an event of this calibre to life.

They are thoughtful, organized, collaborative and committed to creating an experience that celebrates Black excellence with the care and intention it deserves. It has been a pleasure working alongside them over the past three years and watching the brunch reach a new level each time.

As I reflect on this year, I am proud of what we accomplished, grateful for the trust placed in FKB Media Solutions and excited about what is still ahead.

The TIFF Black Excellence Brunch has found its place on the festival calendar. It has become a gathering people talk about, look forward to and hope to attend.

Now, we are getting ready for year five.

If the growth of the past few years is any indication, the next chapter will be extraordinary.

I cannot wait.