That silence was broken in 2008 when Ngozi's father was diagnosed with dementia. Suddenly, her family was thrown into an unfamiliar world of medical terms, appointments, and financial decisions. While Ngozi's career in healthcare gave her access to doctors and specialists, there were still profound gaps—particularly around culturally safe supports.

"My father was my best friend," Ngozi shares. "Despite the hardships, I would walk this journey with him in a heartbeat. But it shouldn't have had to be that hard—for him, for us, or for other families."

Sadly, her experience reflects that of many immigrant and racialized families. Dementia remains a mystery to most, and stigma within cultural communities often compounds the challenges. According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada's 2024 Landmark Study: The Many Faces of Dementia, prevalence among racialized groups could increase by 183% to over 400% by 2050. That means more families will face dementia without the culturally appropriate care they desperately need.

Storytelling as a Bridge
In response, Ngozi—now the Director of Health Equity and Access at the Alzheimer Society of Ontario—is working with partners to spark more open dialogue, reduce stigma, and ensure families get the support they deserve.
This year, the Alzheimer Society of Ontario has partnered with Caribbean Vibrations, Canada's longest-running Caribbean TV series, to launch a multi-part special on Dementia in the Afro-Caribbean Community. Premiering on OMNI Television on September 27th, days after World Alzheimer's Day, the series will spotlight Afro-Caribbean industry experts, caregivers, and community members as they share their personal journeys and highlight the resources available to support families. Together with Reimagining Dementia: A Creative Coalition for Justice, these organizations are working to amplify voices and stories that are too often left out of the conversation.

Reimagining Dementia: Centering People, Not Just Disease
Founded in 2020, Reimagining Dementia is a global movement of people living with dementia, caregivers, advocates, artists, and healthcare professionals united by a vision of inclusion, creativity, and dignity. With more than 815 members across 33 countries, the coalition works to shift the narrative from one of decline to one of possibility and growth.
Their international campaign, "Taking It to the Streets," brings this message to life—challenging stigma, promoting joy, and building community

A Community Gathering: Film, Art, and Conversation
On September 21st, 2025, there is a pre-screening event at the Betty Oliphant Theatre (404 Jarvis St.) that blends art, culture, and dialogue. Hosted by KITE Research Institute – University Health Network, Canada's National Ballet School, and Mid Career Productions (Barrocks Inc.), the evening will feature a double screening of short films:

    Sugar Dumplin, written and directed by Tristan Barrocks, which explores the intersections of food, family, culture, and dementia.
    Dancer Not Dementia, directed by Anthony Grani, is a documentary celebrating the stories of dancers living with dementia and their careers.

The screenings will be followed by Caribbean Vibrations' Season 22's trailer for Dementia in the Afro-Caribbean Community as well as a community panel discussion and Q&A. The panel discussion will include Ngozi Iroanyah providing space for honest conversations about stigma, resilience, and the role of culture in dementia care.

"More work needs to be done," says Ngozi. "And we are doing it—one community at a time."

Support When You Need It Most

For families currently navigating dementia, support is available through First Link®, the Alzheimer Society of Ontario's province-wide referral and support program. First Link connects people living with dementia and their care partners to education, counseling, and resources as early as possible after diagnosis and at any point along the journey.

First Link® Contact Information:
https://firstlinkontario.ca/
416-967-5900

"As prevalence increases in our communities, we need to talk about dementia openly," Ngozi emphasizes. "We need to make space for our stories, our culture, and our voices. That's how we'll ensure that no family feels isolated on this journey."
 
About Caribbean Vibrations TV
For over 20 years, Caribbean Vibrations TV has brought Caribbean culture, music, and travel to Canadian viewers through broadcast and digital media. The series continues to spotlight the stories and talent of the Caribbean Diaspora, building cultural bridges and community connections.
Email: apa@caribbeanvibrationstv.com
Website: https://caribvibetv.com/