One of the most vibrant Saint John community events of the season, Taste of KV brought the Kennebecasis Valley to life with colour, flavour, and genuine connection. With a strong turnout and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, the celebration turned an ordinary day into a shared experience of culture, generosity, and belonging—showing how food can bring communities together in powerful ways.
From the moment families, seniors, newcomers, and neighbours arrived, the spirit of community was unmistakable. Local vendors proudly shared dishes and products that reflected the diversity of the Valley, while conversations flowed easily across generations and backgrounds. Taste of KV was not just an event to attend. It was a space to meet, to linger, and to feel part of something bigger.
At its heart, the event was about building bridges. By creating room for small businesses, many of them women-owned and newcomer-led, Taste of KV celebrated entrepreneurship while also giving back through donations, fundraising, and community support initiatives. It was a reminder that when a community gathers with intention, celebration and social responsibility can go hand in hand.
About the Organizers
Taste of KV was organized by Shamim Nahid and Imran Khan, founders of Rothesay-Quispamsis Community Network Inc. (RQCN). Their journey began in April 2022 when they moved to Quispamsis without knowing anyone in the province. Faced with everyday newcomer challenges, they created a simple Facebook group to help residents share recommendations, local knowledge, and support.
That small idea quickly grew. Within months, the Rothesay–Quispamsis Community Network became a vibrant digital hub where residents connected, small businesses found visibility, and neighbours helped one another navigate daily life. Recognizing its growing impact, Shamim and Imran incorporated RQCN as a nonprofit on March 18, 2024, allowing the work to expand beyond online connection into real-world community building.
Today, RQCN serves more than 10,500 members across the Kennebecasis Valley. Its mission is rooted in inclusion, compassion, and participation. The organization supports newcomers, empowers women, engages seniors, uplifts local businesses, and creates welcoming spaces where families and individuals of all backgrounds feel seen and valued.
Taste of KV stands as one of RQCN’s landmark achievements. It reflects the organization’s commitment to intergenerational engagement, cultural celebration, and strengthening social bonds. By addressing isolation, encouraging participation, and creating joyful shared moments, RQCN continues to build a stronger, more connected Valley.
Events like Taste of KV remind us that community is built not only through programs and platforms, but through shared tables, open conversations, and the simple act of showing up for one another.
