Creative reflection contest
Black History Month Creative Reflection Contest
Every year, we invited Sheridan students to submit a creative reflection - through visual art, multimedia, or creative writing - that reflects on Black history and excellence as an opportunity to share and celebrate the diverse voices in our community. This year we invite you to share your reflection on our 2025 focus:
Celebrating the Mosaic: Black is Limitless
This reflection offers students the opportunity to express and share all aspects of their diverse Black experiences: the joy, the triumph, and the resilience and powerful stories that shape both their personal and collective journey in this world.
Reflections can be through:
Or another medium through which you would like to express your reflection.
Creative writing
Painting
Photography
Illustration
Multimedia
Poetry
2025 contest Winners
Sheridan Student Union has selected Creative Reflection Contest Winners since 2021, with a new prompt each year. In recognition of Black History, SSU are proud to introduce your 2025 Black History Creative Reflection Contest Winners now:
2025 Visual Arts Selections
‘Beyond Limits’ by Jayalee Housen
“In my art work, there is a black woman crouched on top of the world. She is surrounded by the universe alone by herself because within herself she finds peace and harmony. She escapes from the stereotypes or limits of who she is or what society says she can be. She is self-driven, confident and powerful in this position. Her position in the universe is symbolic of her endless and infinite possibilities. She is unstoppable and free. She wears bold red which is representative of her power and royalty as a black queen radiating her beauty and strength of character. The red is also symbolic of her love and care for others and the world around her. The wings on her back symbolizes transformation, courage and freedom. She was not always like this. She has had pain and experienced hardship or being just misunderstood however through time she has evolved; she has used her life experiences to transform her to this new version of herself. She is no longer afraid, she knows who she is and stays true to herself and her identity. Finally, in the art work, her skin is painted with different shades of color depicting that even within the black community, there is diversity. We are from different cultures and backgrounds however with a common goal to play our part in making this world a better place.”
‘Pride, Warmth And Heritage!’ by Jerome Duah-kessie
“When I think about the contest theme, “Black Is Limitless”, I see it as a reflection of the Limitless strength, influence and prominence of Black, African and Caribbean culture and the ways it is expressed in food, fashion, music, hair and people. For this digital illustration, I drew inspiration from my West African heritage, specifically my Ghanaian roots, to celebrate Black culture in a personal and familiar way. The piece consists of three subjects: a mother and child clothed and wrapped in vibrant kente cloth, representing tradition and family. A warm bowl of fufu, my parents' favorite comfort meal, holds good memories. Lastly, the Intricate braiding of 4C hair showcases the beauty and versatility of Black hair. Through vibrant colors and detail, I wanted to capture the essence of my culture. I hope you enjoy the piece.”
2025 Creative Writing Selections
‘Black is Divinity, Black is Limitless’ by Ishimwe Elisa
‘Kaleidoscope Skin’ by Isabelle Franco Guevara Esteva
2025 Multimedia Selections
‘Growing Pains’ by Miles Clarke
“Growing Pains explores the limitless spirit of Black childhood—the joy, defiance, and peace found in simply existing. Each sculpted head represents a different moment of becoming. One kisses its teeth in frustration, another blows bubble gum in carefree play, and the third rests in quiet peace. These expressions reflect a range of emotions Black children experience as they navigate a world that often seeks to define them before they can define themselves. Like childhood itself, these sculptures are still in progress—always growing, always changing. This piece honors that process, celebrating the beauty in self-discovery, resilience, and the freedom to simply be.”
‘Gaze A Little Closer’ by Rachel Oladoyin
“My piece is meant to show how even though as black people we form one community, we are made up of individuals that each have experiences and qualities that make us unique. It's a reminder to not just look at all of us as one entity, but to look a little closer and see the individuals with stories to tell. The digital artwork that comes along with the poem is made in a way as to encourage people to look a little closer to see the details hidden within the tiles. The poem and artwork are one piece, as they work side by side, enforcing each others messages.”
2025 AI Category Selections
‘Black Is Limitless’ by Antoinette Stephens
“My creative submission is a reflection of my journey and the limitless potential of Black identity. Through this piece, I tell a story of resilience, growth, and transformation; one that mirrors my own experiences and those of so many others in the Black community. I weave together the past and present, illustrating the beauty of where I came from and the endless possibilities of where I can go. From rural roots to professional success, from childhood dreams to achieved goals, this artwork captures the spirit of migration, hard work, and perseverance.Each element represents a piece of my story; a journey shaped by culture, history, and ambition. The mosaic-like design reflects the many facets of Black identity, reminding us that we are not defined by limits but by the endless paths we create. Through this submission, I celebrate the richness of Black experiences and honor the truth that ‘Black is Limitless.’”
‘The Everlasting Mosaic of Black Excellence’ by Manraj Rakhraj
“‘The Everlasting Mosaic of Black Excellence’ is a vibrant artwork that celebrates the endless beauty, strength, and accomplishments of Black people and communities. It captures the idea that "Black is Limitless" by blending bold patterns, diverse faces, and cultural symbols. Drawing from African textiles and traditions, the piece shows connected hands (unity), glowing sunrays (hope), and books (the power of knowledge). Every detail highlights the limitless potential of Black excellence, showcasing a future bright with creativity, brilliance, and resilience. This mosaic isn’t just about the past; it’s a bold vision of a legacy that keeps growing and empowering generations to come.”
Congrats to the winners and participants of the 2025 Black History Month Creative Contest.
We are so thankful for your creativity and dedication to this reflection and look forward to sharing more opportunities in the future!
Past Contest Winners
-
-
-
-
2022 presented a powerful opportunity for us – individually and collectively – to build upon the evolution of the previous two years and envision dynamic futures grounded in hope, futures realized by all members of our community. “Imagining Futures,” illustrates Sheridan’s commitment to considering how a better tomorrow may look, while also acknowledging the plurality of imagined future(s).
-
The events of 2020 reinforced the importance of educating ourselves on our privileges and perceptions, the need for reflection and difficult conversations around race and bias, and that it’s vital to offer and seek support when we need it.
Our world is changing. As an educational institution, Sheridan’s role is to create a safe and inclusive space for our community members to learn, grow and navigate this transformation.