Celebrating eight female changemakers and trendsetters at JCA’s 25th International Women’s Day Lunch

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was a great turn out at the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) annual International Day Celebration on Sunday, March 9^th, 2025. In attendance were many: community leaders, civic officials, representatives and organizations. There was a great show of support for the great work that the JCA has been doing.

David Betty, President of the JCA states “This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, is a powerful reminder of and the importance of uplifting, supporting, and celebrating one another. As we gather, let us acknowledge that women of all walks of life, including every woman in this room, have a story of resilience, strength, and achievement, and today, we take the time to acknowledge those contributions. Whether in leadership, business, family, or social change, women supporting women creates a ripple effect that strengthens us all.”

There was a message from Camille Hannays-King, Coordinator of IWD. It reads, “It is also with great pride we recognize the remarkable accomplishments of eight extraordinary women who have inspired change in our communities and beyond. These honorees embody the: resilience, leadership, and empowerment of International Women’s Day, and the Women Who Inspire Change Award. Their contributions strengthen the spirit of our community. As we celebrate the 25^th anniversary of ‘Women Recognizing Women,’ and honour our exceptional honorees, we simultaneously recognize both the progress and the challenges that remain. We know, that together, we can #AccelerateAction to break barriers and create strong communities, fostering a more just and equitable society.”

“Let today be a call to action – a reminder that our work is not yet done, and together, we can accelerate change for a more just and inclusive world.”

There was a message from Dr. Dana Bronte-Tinkew Powell, Chair of the Women’s Committee of the JCA. “International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the strides we have made, the challenges we continue to face, and the incredible women who inspire change through their leadership, resilience, and service. The Women Who Inspire Change Awards honours eight outstanding recipient’s whose contributions: uplift individuals, strengthen communities, and advance equity for all. Congratulations to our trailblazers and history makers! Let today be a call to action – a reminder that our work is not yet done, and together, we can accelerate change for a more just and inclusive world.”

Sandra Whiting emceed the IWD event There were three women who won the “Woman Recognizing Women Volunteer Awards.” The names of the recipients were:

• Grace Golding
• Andrienne White
• Astrid Helena Hayden

The names of the eight ” Women Who Inspire Change” recipients were:

Barbara McFarlane

She is a seasoned educator with a background in social work and teaching

Sophia Findlay

She is a veteran journalist, style influencer and entrepreneur

Dagma Koyi

Founder of Heart-2-Heart Global Ministry as well as being the Founder and Executive Director of REST Centre

Lanre Tunji-Ahayi

Founder of Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO) and Co-Founder/Founding President & CEO of the Sickle Cell Association of Canada (SCDAC)

Josette Drummond

She is a well-known entrepreneur and educator

Dr Beverly-Jean Daniel

She is an Associate Professor and Director of the School of Child and Youth Care at Toronto Metropolitan University

Gwyneth Chapman

Director of Black Empowerment Unit, Founder of Canadian Council of Black Elders

Adaoma Patterson

Past President of the JCA from 2016 to 2022.

Ginelle Skerritt was the keynote speaker of the event. She was the first Black CEO of York Region Children’s Aid Society and Regional Director of UNICEF Ontario. In her speech, she listed six attributes of changemakers and trailblazers. They include:

Kujichagulia-self-awareness, self-leadership and passion for change

It begins with self-care and self-love. They prioritize their own well-being and self-care, recognizing that they cannot pour from an empty cup. They model self-love and self-acceptance, inspiring others to do the same.

Creative vision

Change leaders see the world as it should be and as could be. They embrace change naturally, because they have a vision that requires that they don’t accept less than what feeds our souls, and they hold that for everyone.

Innovation and comfort with risk-taking

As Black women we have written a book on innovation. We are able to navigate complex and rapidly changing environments adapting their systems and approaches as needed to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.

Ujima-collaboration and partnership

Change requires the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and to build strong relationships. Changemakers are deeply rooted in community and are able to center their voices, understand and relate to the experiences and struggles of others.

Authenticity, humility & continuous learning

Changemakers lead with authenticity, integrity and transparency. This inspires trust and confidence in others. They are willing to listen, learn and adapt and are not afraid to apologize and make amends when necessary.