Community News
Sistas Unite: Empowering global voices – African-Caribbean women leading the charge in International Women’s Day Events!
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
“Empowering women is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic necessity for the progress and prosperity of any society. When women are given equal opportunities and rights, they contribute their unique: perspectives, talents, and resilience, enriching the fabric of our collective future. Embracing the full potential of women is not just a choice; it is an essential step towards building a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable world.” Simone Jennifer Smith
International Women’s Day (March 8th, 2024) is a global day celebrating the: social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group, or organization specific.
This year, I was asked to come (as a representative of the paper) to be a speaker at two very powerful events: “Career Night with the 653rd Toronto Pathfinders (Girl Guides),” and “W.I.N.D Empress Echo; Celebrating and Honouring Women Across the Globe.”
On Thursday, March 7th, 2024, I made my way down to L’Amoreaux Community Recreation Center- 2000 McNicoll Ave, Scarborough, Ontario. I had met Simone Cornelissen/Sugar Cookie (Guiding Name), Contact Guider, 653rd Toronto Pathfinders, at an art event during the summer, and we had promised to align in the new year.
Our alignment came with me being speaker at the 653rd Toronto Pathfinders Career Night. Pathfinders have created a fun, safe, learning experience for girls 12- to 14-year-olds. Being a member of the Pathfinders provides a pathway for learning and growth as they: lead activities, plan events, explore their creativity and make a difference in their communities. Pathfinders is a place where a young woman can be curious and creative, innovative and adventurous alongside old and new friends.
It was an incredible experience to be able to speak with such a diverse, and excited group of women. Speakers were given an opportunity to speak to: Girl Guides (9-11 years old), Pathfinders (12-14 years old), and Rangers (15-17 years old). As I entered the venue, the atmosphere was charged with a palpable sense of empowerment. The event had brought together a diverse group of accomplished women, each with unique stories that resonated with passion and determination.
“We are looking to have multiple Girl Guide/Pathfinder units attend this event (hopefully), ” Simone Cornelissen had shared with me in a dialogue before the event. “It is very important to us for our girls to feel empowered and confident in their choices, especially when they are now at the age where they start to think about their career paths and what they want to be when they grow up.”
These remarkable women showcased the strength that comes from embracing one’s individuality and pursuing one’s passions unapologetically. Their narratives not only highlighted the strides made in various careers, but also underscored the importance of solidarity among women in the face of societal barriers. The event left an indelible impression, serving as a poignant reminder of the boundless potential within every woman and the significance of celebrating their achievements on International Women’s Day and beyond.
The very next day I was invited to Ebony Ivy Corp presents W.I.N.D Empress Echo; Celebrating and Honouring Women Across the Globe, an extraordinary event dedicated to celebrating the: strength, resilience, and success of African Caribbean women in our community, and across the globe. This empowering event was hosted by the one and only Noreen Osei Tutu, on Friday March 8th, 2024 at, FESTAC LOUNGE, 9587, Weston Road.
“The event was named after my grandmother,” explains Lola Fayola, the Founder of Ebony Ivy Corp. “When I started the corporation, I let everyone in my family know why I was doing this. W.I.N.D” is more than an event; it’s a movement to uplift, inspire, and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Black women.”
The event recognized and honoured outstanding African-Caribbean women who have made significant contributions to their communities. Some of the outstanding speakers included: Michelle Minott (Broker), Daphine Marunga (Amara Girls Initiative Organization), Brenda Foreman (Creative Director, African Fashion Week), and Cynthia Boadi (Rising Hope Foundation International).
“I was happy to hear women on our panel speak about the importance of: communicating with each other, helping each other, and finding the goodness in each other. It sometimes seems like we are always against each other. The shade, the side eyeing, as a collective this is destructive. It starts with us; we are supposed to be the nurturers. We have to do this for each other.”
“Building these connections is essential for empowering Black women to thrive in their personal and professional lives,” shared Lola. “W.I.N.D. will showcase the rich cultural heritage of Black women through artistic performances, music, and visual displays. Some of our special guests that night included: Mz Undefined (Spoken Word Songstress), Nene Glamorous (Singer/Rapper), Yandji (Singer), and Jade (Violinist/Musician).”
“We have to be a better example for our young women,” Lola concluded. “Educate them, teach them about self-love, self-awareness, relationships and how they manifest. The root of the issue is that they are not aware of themselves. They know nothing about their lineage. It starts from the womb. A child can hear and feel everything that you are going through. We have to start by nourishing ourselves. I tell my children to learn about themselves. Knowing your worth. We really needed to bring awareness to this. It is a problem.”
“If I had the opportunity to do this again, I would focus on the youth; the media is targeting our youth, and our youth are internalizing the message. We need to instill value and qualities in our young women.”