The Black Queens of Durham Region was born in August of 2017 by Asha Lapps who was looking for a way to connect Black women in the Durham region. She was quickly joined by Fatim Sylla as part of the original core team.

Asha believed that there was always a lot to do in Toronto, but although there were a lot of Black Women living in the Durham Region, there wasn’t a lot of activity happening to give them the opportunity to connect with each other. The group became a Facebook group and as of September 2025 has over 13,000 engaged members as part of their online community and growing.

The group has become a place to ask questions, get information and support and to find local business referrals. They have put on several events including pop-up markets to showcase the products and services of local business owners. They have also hosted workshops online and in person to educate the group on topics that affect Black women. The Black Queens of Durham Region Group has become the go-to resource for Black women in the Durham region and surrounding areas.