Ladies Corner Magazine Spring 2022

2021 Diversity CENTRE FOR INTELLECTUAL EXCELLENCE (CeFIE)

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Conference

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LadiesCorner M A G A Z I N E

COMMUNITY

CREATIVITY

VISIBILITY

EMPOWERMENT

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tee Adeyemo info@lccmediafoundation.ca CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Monica Bassili Lorrie Morales Jacqueline Biollo Chef Keno CONTENT/RESIDENT EDITOR Judith Pila MARKETING MANAGER/ADVERTS Miss Purple Media 587 974 9830 DESIGN DIRECTOR ‘Tunde Adeyemo tundeadeyemo@citeay.com PHOTOGRAPHER Kachy Photos judith@kachyphotos.com Aanu Adedire 1909 Media Productions BUSINESS DIRECTOR Tayo Elnathan tayo.elnathan@lccmediafoundation.ca EMAIL info@lccmediafoundation.ca WEBSITE www.ladiescorner.ca This magazine or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise without prior written permission of the publisher.

Ladies Corner Canada Limited, 4230 Charles Close SE, Edmonton, AB T6W OZ5.

LADY TEE’S DESK

COLOURS OF HOPE

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ogether we waited in wonder for a new year of possibilities but watched the surge of the Omicron variant as we ushered in 2022.

I write this on a day when the temperature is just about perfect, the deep freeze is over and our street has just been scraped of snow. Spring is not far away but tonight, I can smell hope and I am consoled that it’s Black History Month and hopeful that things are getting better in our somewhat chaotic world.

I am consoled and hopeful about tomorrow.

I am hopeful that somehow all the work that has gone into this magazine and the websitewww.ladiescorner.ca, is meaningful to our writers and readers. I am hopeful for 2022. If there was a colour of hope, it would be the colour of this moment and the palpable reality that all things are possible.

As part of an ongoing series to support local businesses in Edmonton, we feature a variety of small business owners in our search for Alberta’s Top 50 businesswomen. Our Panels with Mary Thomas will deconstruct the challenges of doing business in Alberta. Alberta’s Top Business Woman will be revealed in a later edition. So, please keep your nominations coming.

We are grateful that the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Rajan Sawhney, Lisa Holmes, former Mayor of Morinville and Chief of Staff to Edmonton Mayor, Amarjeet Sohi, Black-Owned Market Socialpreneur, Rochelle Ignacio and Edmonton political strategist, Jacqueline Biollo agreed to grace the cover of our magazine. We hope you are inspired by their stories.

Our theme is Break the Bias and this is to

commemorate the anniversary of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2022. Monica Basili, an emerging voice on women’s rights explores what it means to break the bias. Our senior’s article is quite poignant and reflective. For the first time, we have a feature on relationships and Mom’s Korner is back in this edition.

We ask you to continue supporting us in 2022. Please let us know if you find our content engaging and empowering. We have uncovered a chronic need for writers. If writing is your thing, do consider writing for us. Because life is short, let’s make a commitment to live our best lives now. And always, stay hopeful.

To the best of 2022!

Tee Adeyemo Founder and Editor-in-Chief Ladies Corner Magazine

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Hilda FankahArthur

Monica Bassili

8. Equity, Diversity & Inclusion — Hilda Fankah-Arthur 9. Empowered — Lorrie Morales 10. Women’s Day 2022: Break the Bias by Taking Steps Toward Progress — By Monica Bassili

11. Remembering Mandla Zatcha YoualeuMbomback 12. Family Law — Jennifer Esenwa 14. Not Solo: A Cultural Awakening — Jacqueline Biollo

22 Rajan Sawhney

15. LadiesCorner Kitchen with Chef Keno 15 Supporting Black-Owned Businesses — Rochelle Ignacio 16. Alberta’s Top Businesses 20. CPAWS Seeks to Curb Climate Change —

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Lisa Holmes

Justinah Adeyanju

Aubrianna Snow 22. Women in Politics — Rajan Sawhney 24. People-Powered Platform — The Stride 27. Serving Edmonton — Lisa Holmes 30. Not leaving life to chance

— with Justinah Adeyanju 31. Women in Tech — Adetoun Abby Aiyeleye 32. Behind the Scenes at Africa Centre — Eve Uwamahoro 33. Changing Lives One Person at a Time - HIV

Edmonton and HIV Community Link 34. The Ribbon Rouge Foundation — Funke Olokude 35. Mum’s Koner 38. Relationship Korner 39. Your HAIR and YOU — Femi Adeyemo

3145 Adetoun Abby Aiyeleye

LadiesCorner

WODIL 2022 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Conference with Hilda Fankah-Arthur

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riginally from Ghana in West Africa, Hilda migrated to North America, specifically, California, USA, in 2008 to pursue a master’s program at Santa Clara University. Upon completion of the program, she moved to Canada in 2013 and started her doctoral program at the University of Alberta in 2016. During this time period, she developed an interest in understanding the educational structures and the experiences of marginalized students and people in North America. This in turn, guided her educational and professional pursuits. Hilda’s motivation to pursue a career in education and policy development was inspired by the need to address issues impacting the growth and advancement of marginalized people in North America. Because of her experiences in the United States and later Canada, she was exposed to some of the issues that affect marginalized people at different educational levels and the challenges they face as they navigate their career trajectories.

The Centre for Intellectual Excellence (CeFIE) is a non-profit organization that seeks to create opportunities for diverse populations, particularly marginalized people, to reach their highest potential. CeFIE was established

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in response to inaccessible resources and the need to create equitable opportunities for the advancement of marginalized people. The individuals involved are accomplished and experienced professionals from marginalized communities who have overcome different challenges and barriers in their educational and professional journey.

Unfortunately, most of these individuals are not known or readily accessible to others who are on similar journeys.

The goal of CeFIE is to create a platform where resources and information will be made available and accessible to people and facilitate connections between professionals.

The World Diversity in Leadership conference brings together senior officials, policy makers, researchers, community members and leaders from private corporations to share ideas, skills and strategies to address emerging issues within the Equity, Diversity and Inclusive (EDI) framework. There have been several discussions on issues related to EDI within a very broad spectrum but WODIL creates the avenue to highlight the benefits of applying these concepts to specific issues in various fields and specifications.

This year’s World Diversity in Leadership Conference 2022 will be held LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

The goal of CeFIE is to create a platform where resources and information will be made available and accessible to people and facilitate connections between professionals. at the Edmonton Convention Centre from June 20 - 24th with its theme titled “Leveraging Diversity to Advance Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” Featured and keynote speakers included and confirmed are Hon. Julia Gillard, Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Dr. A. Louise Bonaparte, H.E. Dr. Jewel Taylor and H.R.M. Nana Odidwour Baah Kokroko III. The conference theme and topics are in recognition of the significant contribution of technology and innovation throughout these past years during the pandemic, as well as the growing need for entrepreneurship in economic recovery. Some of the topics that will be covered include innovation, law and technology, Indigenous women and entrepreneurship, diversity in sports, the impact of women entrepreneurship in STEM, raising equity consciousness. For other topics and more information, visit www.diversityconference.ca The program is open to anyone interested in participating.

February, 2022 SeniorsCorner

Empowered

Lorrie Morales

with LORRIE MORALES

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s the old version of years gone by slowly leaks out, releasing past prejudices and saying goodbye to old beliefs, in an effort to make things new, we have to consider the hope of better days ahead. What are we going to do to celebrate change, circumstances or differences?

Each year, I focus on one word that will direct my days. In the past, I have embodied Believe, Bloom and Soar, but 2022 is a much stronger word than the previous direction. This year, it is Empowered. The fact that the word takes on two separate meanings is relevant for me. First of all, empowerment is when a person gives someone the authority or power to do something. Empowerment also means, to make stronger, more confident especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights. What a fitting word for our times!

Life has been inconsistent, unpredictable and divided to many of us these past almost two years. We are left bewildered at the treatment of our differences, our beliefs, our

identities and yet, each of us has the same humanness – experiences, trials, problems and struggles. Why do we remain separated because of our differences – of opinion, lifestyles and even age or gender? Perhaps because we are biased. We take the disproportionate idea of being in favour of or against something, whether it is innate or learned, and we become prejudicial, unfair and often close-minded in our thoughts.

How can we break the bias? By thinking differently about our perception or treatment of others, we have opportunities to change our biases.

I am the frost on the window with silver hair; the cry of a lone wolf in the wilderness roaming the forest path alone; the creak of the rustic rocking chair as I slowly ease my body to an upright standing position on sometimes shaky legs. Let us honour ageing by comforting the lonely, visiting the elderly, assisting the seniors and embracing women of all colour with our diverse cultural and unique femininity.

I am the faded black and white LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

photo tucked into the page of a worn, frayed book left on the shelf to be remembered for tomorrow. I am the filled journal pages of detailed, descriptive narratives and letters splayed across the lined paper leaving words of wisdom for future generations to read and reflect upon. Let us acknowledge the outcasts, the hurting, the marginalized, the suffering by hearing their stories, sharing our lives with them today and working on the mental health of those who need help.

I am the echoing laughter and song of a thousand voices gathered together to celebrate differences. I am the bouquet of flowers leaving a fragrance of acceptance, knowledge and peace in a world fraught with division and bias. Our uniqueness is what makes us beautiful. It’s a reason to celebrate! After all, “One way or another, we are all biased, but still, we have the modern cortical capacity to choose whether or not to let the harmful biases dictate our behaviour.”

Abhijit Naskar

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LadiesCorner

Women’s

Day 2022

BREAK THE BIAS BY TAKING STEPS TOWARD PROGRESS BY MONICA BASSILI

Monica Bassili

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uesday, March 8th, 2022, marks International Women’s Day globally. The theme this year is Break the Bias. Although widely known, Women’s Day did not appear overnight. The early 1900’s saw women relentlessly working towards gender equality, yet, today, similar issues persist. For example, women in Canada have advocated for the change for generations, yet Canada only recognized Women’s Day in 1991.

In 1991, Canadian women established the Canadian Women’s Foundation to promote and maintain social, economic, and political gender equality. Nancy Ruth Jackman and Susan Woods are credited with starting a women’s movement in Canada in 1986. The story of Canadian efforts for gender equality showcases effective democracy, leadership, and ultimately grassroots organizing.

The groundwork for the Canadian Women’s Founda-

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tion began in 1986, in which Jackman and Woods are described as “eating lunch and chatting about possibilities.” Among the many successes produced by Jackman and Woods, the establishment of the Canadian Women’s Foundation served to solidify gender equality within Canadian federalism. The foundation currently provides services and resources for domestic violence, poverty, women and girls’ health and actively voices the concerns and needs of Canadian women.

The Starting Point?

Since 2000, female migrants to Canada have consistently outnumbered male migrants. A growing number of migrants are settling in Canada and must be incorporated into the discourses about Canadian women’s justice and rights. The starting point for gender equality must acknowledge the diversity of Canadian women and the diverse cultures, languages, needs, concerns,

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

February, 2022 and perspectives required to advocate for gender equality Culture and language, however dividing, is a critical point authentically. of focus to address gender equality in Canada. Canada is Historically, the efforts and work of women to establish the haven for countries globally struggling with political Women’s Day internationally have predominantly been instability, corruption, economic crises, civil unrest, poverexperienced in Western countries. Beginning in New York, ty, and violence. Notwithstanding the political, social, and the idea then moved to Germany, Finland, Denmark, Switeconomic issues felt by Canada, its current situation is most zerland, Austria, the UK, Russia, and other Euoften considered preferable compared to The most ropean countries. However, the beginnings of most countries. As a result, Canada has a significant barrier an “international” Women’s Day only became unique role in accepting and accommodatto achieving apparent in 2021 with the holiday adoption ing migrants and establishing a foundation genuine efforts in countries such as Eritrea, Zambia, Uganda, for including diverse experiences, cultures, toward gender equality is power Laos, Madagascar, and other countries outside and languages into gender equality. imbalance of North America and Western and Central EuThus, the steps toward achieving incluleading to the rope. sive discussions of gender equality are not prioritization of simple or laid out. It is up to those in power some voices over others.

Empowering All Women and those who hold power in their comWomen in Canada need to expand the munities to empower Canadian women. scope of their rights to achieve success. As a multicultural The most significant barrier to achieving genuine efforts country, Canada is not uniformly fair to women. It is espetoward gender equality is power imbalance - leading to the cially true for women who have immigrated to Canada or prioritization of some voices over others. This year’s Womhave established generations of women with ties to other en’s Day must recognize multicultural Canadian women countries, cultures, and languages. As Canada continues to - not as tokens but as transformative leaders and revolugrow, a greater need for diversity and inclusion is needed in tionaries. These efforts have and will continue to transform discussions of gender equality.

Canadian politics, culture, and society.

Remembering MANDLA ZATCHA YOUALEUMBOMBACK “IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE A GREAT PERSON.” Mandla’s Foundation is a non-profit organization created in memory of Mandla Zatcha Youaleu-Mbomback, a 12-year-old Fort Mcmurray girl, who lost her life in a tragic car accident in 2019.

Mandla’s Foundation is the only organization to receive a proclamation to honour a child of African descent in Alberta, Canada. March 22nd was declared Mandla’s Day in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

The 2nd edition of Mandla’s Day in 2022, will be marked by the launch of a program directed to children whose parents are experiencing financial hardship. Donations will be made to local organizations.

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

Mandla’s Foundation aims to provide help to alleviate suffering anywhere in the community. Efforts have been made to places such as Cameroon and Togo (Africa).

The Foundation’s yearly projects are The Christmas Toys Giveaway with their partner Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, Mandla’s Day and Back to School.

Mandla’s Foundation also aims to involve youths in community service and social activism. It’s important that the youth be inspired by their peers and work to promote a friendly and inclusive environment among themselves with Mandla’s motto which is: “It’s a great day to be a great person.”

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LadiesCorner

FAMILY LAW with JENNIFER ESENWA

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redise Jennifer Esenwa is an internationally trained lawyer from Nigeria. She is married with 3 lovely children and presently lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her family. She just completed her article year and is eligible for a call to the Alberta Bar. Ms. Esenwa developed a passion for Family Law, particularly Child Welfare Matters under the tutelage of Mrs. Florritta Iriogbe, the Principal lawyer at Tzedek Law Office in Camrose Alberta.

Prior to articling, Ms. Esenwa worked with The Hope Mission Edmonton, a non-profit social care organization that supports the homeless community with food, shelter and social service. In five out of her seven years in the organization, she served in various leadership positions, finishing as the Manager of Shelter Programs from 2019 to 2021. Ms. Esenwa is a committed advocate for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable people in our community.

Family Enhancement Agreement: A Tool To Make It Right: The well-being of the child is the responsibility of every member of the society and this responsibility is engraved in the adage: “it takes a village to raise a child.” Starting from the immediate to the extended family, pro-

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Jennifer Esenwa, an internationally trained lawyer from Nigeria

fessional, religious and cultural organizations, to schools and neighbours, the Children and Family Services are saddled with the responsibilities of ensuring the safety, well-being and security of children in our community. In 2002 the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act (CYFEA) came into force. The Act provides authority for the Child and Youth Services (CFS) in support of children who are abused, neglected or otherwise in need of intervention.

What is Child Intervention? Child Intervention is the action taken by the CFS in response to concerns for a child’s safety, security and well-being. A child is in need of intervention if there are reasonable and probable grounds to believe that the safety, security or development of the child is LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

The duty of initiating this intervention service falls on any member of the community that becomes aware of any risks confronting the child. endangered. The Act categorizes such risk under abandonment, cruelty, neglect, sexual abuse or exploitation, emotional and physical abuse or unwillingness to protect the child from exposure to risk from others.

The duty of initiating this intervention service falls on any member of the community that becomes aware of any risks confronting the child. This activates the process of investigation by the CFS, pursued by its caseworkers through investigations and assessments. The results of the investigation determine the kind of intervention service that child would need.

Read the whole article on www.ladiescorner.ca Tzedek Law Office | 5110 48a Ave, Camrose, AB T4V 5K2 | (780) 679 0074

February, 2022

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

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LadiesCorner

Not Solo

A Cultural Awakening

Getting to Know Jacqueline Biollo, MBA, ICD.D

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Jacqueline Biollo, MBA, ICD.D

nergized by various cultural encounters, I was awakened to my surroundings. I wanted first to better understand and appreciate who I am and where I came from before using this knowledge to motivate and inspire others.

A disc-jockey (DJ) dance floor mix of island music, albeit different islands, plays constantly in my head. I am the daughter of a boy from Manitoulin Island and a girl from the island of Jamaica. Ebony and ivory don’t always live in perfect harmony, at least by society’s standards. The unwritten rules of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours are considered social norms.

The unexpected and unpredictability of cultural mixes in society has evolved. #BlackLivesMatter seeks to highlight racism, discrimination, and inequality experienced by Black people. Truth and Reconciliation seek to create goodwill and trust between groups in the aftermath of tragic events.

Although both these initiatives speak to my ancestry, they don’t define my present situation. To the naked eye, I am a successful, middle-aged, Caucasian woman. Some people are intrigued to learn my ancestry spans from an Ojibwe First Nation, M’Chigeeng, also known as West Bay, to the capital and largest city of Jamaica, Kingston, located on the southeastern coast of the island. Through time and travel and matters of the heart, my ancestry is representative of Irish, English, Scottish, Dutch, Scandinavian, Asian, Ghanaian, Jamaican, Serian, and African men and women.

As a food and fashion enthusiast, I have yet to explore the traditional diet and clothing of my Indigenous ances-

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tors. Made up of the animals and plants found on the land and in the sea around them, every part of the animal was traditionally consumed or used to make clothing or shelter.

My foray into the world of Jamaican traditional main dishes was vast. This was likely due to the fact that it was my mom who prepared most of the family meals, and the likes of ackee and codfish, jerk chicken, oxtail, curry goat, and rice and peas that were comfort food to her.

I don’t often wear a quadrilled dress, or bandana skirt, which is worn with a ruffled sleeve blouse and matching head tie, but this traditional folk costume is fun, colourful, and representative of the modest dresses used by dancers, musicians, and Jamaican tour guides.

Many traditional First Nations and Jamaican people consider song and dance to be sacred. Drums and rattles are percussion instruments traditionally used by First Nations people, while the flute, large drums, trumpets, and tambourines provide the background for the music that inspires dance or movement in Jamaica.

My cultural awakening to better understand who I am and where I came from, had a defining moment. We are not solo on our journey. Together, we can discover the significance of our identity, strengthen ties with scattered history and dispersed presence. We can empathize with people and support international recognition of cultural similarities and differences. Hope blossoms eternally. Be not solo. Live in the culture of inquisitiveness, together.

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

LadiesCorner

KITCHEN with CHEF KENO

Supporting BlackOwned Businesses BLACK OWNED BUSINESS CEO AND COMMUNITY LEADER ROCHELLE IGNACIO CELEBRATES WINS

Ackee & saltfish Ackee and saltfish is Jamaica’s national dish, creating the perfect breakfast or brunch. It is also a preferred dish for Jamaicans everywhere. Ackee and saltfish can be served with fried dumplings, fried or roasted breadfruit, demanding food or any rice dish.

Ingredients 1/2 lb salted cod 1 can ackee 1 white onion 5 cloves garlic 3 green onionS 1 large tomato 1/2 sweet green pepper 1/2 sweet red pepper 4/6 sprigs of thyme 2 tablespoons of black pepper 1 scotch bonnet Vegetable oil Method Put codfish in a pot of water. Put enough to cover, boil lightly for about 10 mins, throw away the water and repeat until cod is cooked. Cool and break apart with a fork. Open ackee, pour in a strainer and allow to drain for 20 minutes. Dice all your vegetables. Sauté white onions, sweet peppers, garlic until onions are translucent. Add codfish tomatoes, thyme and scotch bonnet pepper ( use only a portion to start and add more as needed, you can add it, but you can’t remove it, so use cautiously). Sauté for 10-15 mins. Serve and enjoy.

Kenos Kitchen | Instagram: @Kenotain | Kenotain Matthews

Rochelle Ignacio

Black-Owned-Market Co-Founder and Community Leader Rochelle Ignacio Empowers Black businesses in Edmonton by creating unique markets for them to thrive. She spoke to LCCMEDIA recently.

Rochelle Ignacio (she/her) is a safety and inclusion specialist who is passionate about equity, diversity and inclusion. She has a Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology from the University of Alberta with a major in Family Ecology and minor in Community Diversity, as well as an Occupational Health and Safety Certificate.

As the co-founder and operations business officer of Edmonton’s first Black-Owned Market (BOM), she oversees strategic planning, negotiation, stakeholder relations and project management oversight to a collec­­­­­­tive of one hundred Black-owned entrepreneurs.

This has provided her with knowledge of how systems of oppression continue to create barriers for Black entrepreneurs to realize economic success. This know­ ledge allows her to advocate for collective rights on behalf of the Black business community and contributes to a sense of belonging which lead to positive outcomes and economic empowerment within the community.

BOM YEG has developed a retail line to help fund operational costs. Her personal goal for BOM is to create a self-sufficient and sustainable organization that offers support to the vendor community on an ongoing basis, filling a vital need in Edmonton’s Black business community.

Rochelle is one of the recipients of Edify Magazine’s Top 40 under 40 awards (2021) as well as the African Caribbean Community Leader of the Year award (2020).

Black-Owned Market was at the Art Gallery of Alberta in February as part of the Black Futures Market.

For more information regarding Rochelle’s portfolio check out www.bomyeg.ca

LadiesCorner

Business SPOTLIGHT

Alberta’s NAJEM top Businesses 1

Natasha Martinez

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WICK’D PETAL

Natasha Martinez, Owner + Lead Candle Artist, Wick’d Petals Candle Company.

With the support of countless people, I created Wick’d Petals Candle Company (“wick - d” as in ‘candlewick’) as a reminder that the little things matter in life. The first candle was created in a small kitchen with soy wax bought second-hand and daisies picked from the side of the road. From there, my passion for this traditional artwork blossomed (quite literally) and I started mixing my love of flowers with modern candle-makLadiesCorner – Spring 2022

ing techniques.

Tell us about your achievements and accomplishments. * Wick’d Petals just passed the twoyear anniversary, and we have accomplished so much in that time frame!

We were featured in the January 2021 issue of House and Garden UK. We currently have our candles in 40 stockists around the country, have shipped orders as far as Belgium, France, and England. www.wickdpetals.com, on Instagram and Facebook at @wickdpetals

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February, 2022

NAJEM

Name of Business: owner of Microblading lashes Najem Academy I’m Nana Najem, the owner of Microblading Lashes Najem Academy. I have been in the permanent makeup

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TENI AJAYI

Name of Business Teni Ajayi, Founder, Tennyola Founded by Teni Ajayi, Tennyola was created as an outlet for education and enlightenment. The brand has the aim of teaching Africans and non- Africans alike about the Black and African culture and incorporating

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it into everyday life. Each piece crafted, is named and is linked to a certain country, tribe or culture, creating a learning experience even while shopping.

Instagram: @tennyola.Inc and website is www.tennyolainc.com

TASTYARTS

Lara Shittu, owner, Tastyarts by Lara I am a wife and a mother of 2 beautiful kids. I am a nurse and am currently back in school for my BSc in Nursing. I love the arts and fashion.

My small business was established in

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industry for 7 years, completing thousands of eyebrows and leaving behind many happy clients in the wake of my success!

2021 baking pastries right from my kitchen. I specialize in cupcakes and meat pies and recently baking cakes for all occasions. One of my favourite things to decorate is cupcakes.

Instagram: Tastyarts_by_lara and Facebook: TastyArts by Lara

1909MEDIA

Aanuoluwapo Adedire, CEO 1909media Productions Inc My name is Aanu Adedire. I am a content creator, lawyer and CEO of 1909media Productions Inc. In 2017, I started my journey as a talk show host on Life Matters with Aanu Adedire as well as a content creator on

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

various social media and podcast platforms. I have been able to scale up from being just a talk show host to starting my media company.

Aanu Adedire works or creates across all social media platforms.” www.1909mediaproductions.ca

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LadiesCorner

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TREND LAW

Rebecca Adenekan LL. B, (B.L).

LL.M is the founding Partner of TREND LAW Rebecca Adenekan LL. B, (B.L). LL.M is the founding Partner of TREND LAW (O. Rebecca Adenekan Professional Corporation) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She practises diverse areas of

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GIGGLY YEARS

Iya Majed, Founder and Owner, Giggly Years I started this small business in February 2020. Starting up this business was definitely a huge achievement and accomplishment, especially during COVID and my small business has grown so much ever since. I have

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more than 300 brand rep babies and over 5,000+ customers across the globe from Canada, USA, UK, Australia, Middle East, and even Brazil. www.gigglyyears.com @gigglyyears on Instagram @gigglyyearsx on Facebook

BEAUTYBYNIKKY

Adenike Bolaji Adenike is a wife, mom of three and an Edmonton-based makeup artist.

Her focus is to enhance and lift up women’s spirits and self-confidence.

She a self-taught makeup artist and

offers bridals, editorials, one on one makeup, natural hair styling and gele styling. http://beautebynikkyinc.com and @ beautebynikky on Instagram.

BULKBUY

Kemi Bolatito-Bello Kemi has a degree in Human Service Administration and Mass Communication. Kemi is creative, ambitious and a goal-getter no matter the obstacle. Kemi has shown so much resilience and inspired many women in her local community as an immigrant barely 6 years in Canada. She built her business from her garage in 2016 to expanding to two locations in just 2 years of operation.

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law, particularly, family law including but not limited to divorce, custody, child welfare, child and spousal support, as well as work with the Matrimonial Property Division. www.trendlawfirm.com

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Kemi has impacted the lives of people in her community, through volunteering and supporting individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities. She currently sat on the board of Edmonton Community Adult Learning Association; she was nominated for the RBC Women of Influence Award in 2021 and her company Bulk Buy Wholesale won the Alberta Award of Distinction in 2021. www.bulkbuywholesale.ca

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NAJEM

Odion Welch: Public Speaker, Author, and Mental Health Coordinator @ Africa Centre Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Odion Welch is an Amazon internationally recognized best-selling author for her novel Breakthrough.

She is currently the curator of the Mental Health Program at The Africa Centre; however, she is also one of the many Black Fembosses that consis-

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Safia Moke

February, 2022

tently balance work and school. She holds a certificate in Business Management from MacEwan University, a degree in Human Resources & Labour Relations from Athabasca University, and a recruitment designation from the Association of Professional Recruiters. www.odionwelch.com and instagram.com/odionwelch

DELICE SERVICES

Safia Moke, founder, A Woman of Influence and CEO Delice Services Safia Moke is a determined young woman filled with positive energy.

This young woman of Congolese origin was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and she grew up in Montreal where she did all her studies. After high school, she studied social sciences in college, to continue in

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

law. She began her studies in law but the passion for business appealed to her more, so she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM). www.instagram.com/awomanofinfluence_ www.facebook.com/awomanofinfluence/

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LadiesCorner

CPAWS Seeks to Curb Climate CHANGE with AUBRIANNA SNOW

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he effects of climate change are being felt across the world in the form of extreme weather and natural disasters. Alberta may be one of the most severely impacted provinces in the years to come. Kecia Kerr, executive director of the Northern Alberta chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) is well acquainted with the potential effects of global warming on Alberta.

CPAWS is a national organization that began in the 1960s and has grown to include chapters across the country. The Northern Alberta chapter is stationed in Edmonton and conducts its business from Red Deer to

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The world would be a better place if we would just love one another and care for others.

Alberta’s border with the Northwest Territories. Society works mainly in advocating for new protected areas and good management of current protected areas and public lands, but efforts to maintain biodiversity in the face of the climate crisis is also a big piece of their work.

The Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute’s Dr. Richard Schneider developed a series of climate maps for Alberta in 2013. These maps predict that Alberta may face an overall temperature increase of four degrees Celsius or above in the worst-case scenario, far exceeding the 1.5-degree threshold established by the LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

Paris Agreement. Even in the bestcase scenario, the province will still be above that mark.

“Precipitation is going to change,” explains Kerr. “It’s going to change in a way that even though precipitation overall for the whole year is going to increase, it’s going to decrease in the mid to late summer months when stress due to drought is highest.”

Alberta’s landscape will become much warmer and drier on the whole, according to these models. “Grasslands (will be) expanding to the north,” says Kerr. “At the hundred-year mark, we’re going to have very little left of our boreal forest.” Schneider’s

February, 2022 Sponsored Content

worst-case scenario sees a “mixed grass ecosystem” spreading as far north as Fort McMurray by 2050.

The heating up of our province will impact more than just weather.

“There will be a lot of species that are not going to be able to adapt with the rate of change that is expected. We’ll lose a lot of different species, but it will also really affect our communities that are dependent on certain industries,” says Kerr.

While the possible futures of Alberta’s climate landscape show a significant change even in the bestcase scenario, there are ways that Albertans can make a difference lo-

cally in reversing these impacts and preserving our natural spaces.

“The biggest thing that we can do is make sure that we’re telling our elected officials that these are things that we care about,” Kerr says. “We want them to be taking action on climate change.” Calling, emailing, and participating in letter-writing campaigns held by CPAWS and similar organizations are all ways for nature lovers to have their voices heard.

“I know for a lot of people, that sounds a little bit anticlimactic, but they have a huge impact.”

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

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LadiesCorner

Women in Politics

An Afternoon with the Honourable Minister of Transportation: RAJAN SAWHNEY.

M

ost people never think that their passion and advocacy for a cause will break barriers, but Minister Rajan Sawhney has broken the glass ceiling in so many ways. She believes that when one believes so strongly in one’s goals, one takes action and as a consequence, one’s behaviors and activities naturally break down barriers. She acknowledges that a natural consequence of pursuing a goal is inadvertently changing the landscape. “It’s what motivates you at the end of the day and determines how far you are willing to go to achieve your goals.” None of this happens without a strong support system.

These are the people who believe in you and are your foundation to success. She advises others to cultivate and invest in relationships carefully and meaningfully. As Minister of Transportation, Rajan has an invested interest in breaking down barriers.

Politics definitely chose Minister Rajan Sawhney.

Wearing her heart on her sleeve, Rajan can often extend beyond the “politically correct” framework of persistence by striving to create positive outcomes for not only her community but for all communities in our province of Alberta. This applies, particularly to our children and youth. Rajan states that her passion comes from “how I was raised, my faith, the role models I have had in my life, particularly the women, who have focused on selfless service in the community.”

What inspires her to keep making the world a better place is not only her children but all children and their

brilliant futures. By being involved in politics, she envisions a safe, inclusive, prosperous society full of opportunities for children. Helping them aspire to achieve their full potential will enable them to give back to the community. Rajan’s grandparents were not afforded healthcare, electricity, running water or educational opportunities, so when her parents immigrated to Canada, they experienced a very different standard of living. She now wants to leave something for her children; opportunities she is thankful for. There is free entry to every Albertan who wishes to pursue a dream. There are “no limitations or barriers; just the ability to reach for the stars.”

Minister Sawhney is an activist who is passionate about community engagement initiatives and this was evident from the temporary freeze on new photo radar devices being used on the roadways. “Safety is the number one priority for the MInistry of Transportation,” she stated. Rajan also feels that the new proposed guidelines that she announced will achieve a good balance of having the requisite tools to ensure Albertans are safe on the roads and highways, while ensuring that the intended purpose in the photo radar program is for traffic safety, not a money-making venture.

Another development under MInister Sawhney’s leadership was the hiring and training of more government examiners and licensing more private examiners for Alberta Transportation. Registry agents began booking passenger

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

February, 2022 vehicle road tests in December 2020 for appointments that started in January of 2021. This private model quickly cleared the backlog of passenger tests within the first few months of last year.

Minister Sawhney’s legislative priorities for 2022 are focusing on a variety of projects including improving safety on our highways, building roads and bridges that will boost economic recovery, supporting our commercial trucking industry and starting construction on the Springbank Offspring Reservoir. This will ensure Calgary and Southern Alberta are protected from floods like the one experienced in 2013. Because of Edmonton’s Southwest population boom, which put a strain on the southwest portion of Anthony Henday Drive, work to widen the route began in 2019. Ease of congestion is projected to be finished by fall of 2022.

Minister Sawhney is well-read and enjoys reading health and wellness magazines. Happiness by His Holiness the Dalai Lama can be found on her bedside table. Rajan also likes to spend time keeping up-to-date with current events by watching the news channels such as Bloomberg, the Another development under MInister Sawhney’s leadership was the hiring and training of more government examiners and licensing more private examiners for Alberta Transportation.

Registry agents began booking passenger vehicle road tests in December 2020 for appointments that started in January of 2021.

Rajan Sawhney, Honourable Minister of Transportation

Economist, Globe and Mail and the National Post on her i-pad. Her hope for the future, she relays, must come from within every single one of us.

Our attitudes and perspectives on life help us navigate through all circum-

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

stances. “Each of us has a responsibility to inculcate a spirit of optimism and positivity within ourselves and to those around us.” It can be contagious!

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LadiesCorner

People-Powered Platform

W

hen organizations, such as the Calgary Chamber and Calgary Foundation, collaborated and envisioned a program connecting young leaders from for-profit and non-profit sectors to address issues impacting Calgarians in 2017, The Stride was born. Originally named “Gen YYC”, this people-powered platform was formed to develop a leadership program and build a strong foundation within the community.

The idea was to have the founders, a group of dedicated leaders, develop unique ideas and solutions, governance systems, develop programs and content and determine how these two communities could work collaboratively.

In 2019, The Stride rebranded and

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“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” - Margaret J. Wheatley

launched into more social and community issues, still allowing young professionals an opportunity to connect and belong. However, when the pandemic hit, The Stride was forced to change its gait and move at a different pace.

Transitioning to an online environment forced the organization to change from the community engagement experience of in-person group meetings, narrowed theme focus, and still maintain a level of interest for participants. Garnering feedback from Striders, the organization dropped all age restrictions and membership fees and opened participation to all. The level of interest has improved in 2022 and the focus is finding resources and people to learn from each other and make positive changes despite the challenges set forth by the pandemic.

The Stride is now focused on offerLadiesCorner – Spring 2022

ing workshops and learning events in a hybrid model, online when required (and to support accessibility), and in-person when possible. Past events have included topics such as Impacts of Intergenerational Trauma, Intersectionality, and Accessibility for People with Disabilities. The platform has also removed all financial barriers and individuals can now attend by paying ticket prices, choosing free tickets or paying what one can afford. The impetus for change was derived from a continued equity learning journey.

With a new year underway, the organization is hopeful that rebuilding small in-person groups will reignite that lost sense of building relationships and trust. The pandemic has created a loss of connectedness; however, The Stride is still grounded in the original focus of developing a deeper understanding of the challenges and

February, 2022 Sponsored Content

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

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LadiesCorner

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LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

February, 2022

issues that face the city of Calgary and collaborating on how to address these issues and challenges in the best way possible.

Using the energy, expertise and contributions of its members, The Stride offers programs, projects and events, and opportunities for community members to actively be a part of the granting process. The Stride Advisory Circle reviews project proposals and groups “pitch” their innovative ideas. The Legacy Projects are indicative of the types of projects where grant funding was used to build community connections, explore new possibilities, and create resources to support others. Two examples of these Legacy Projects are the TwoWheel View and Sankofa.

Two Wheel View was a project that provided programs for at-risk youth.

They collect donated bikes and use them as a means to work on skill development and pre-employment opportunities for youth. Networks are

The Stride is comprised of people from all backgrounds, the corporate world, government agencies... created, the bikes are fixed, and are distributed to communities. The program’s aim is to increase youth’s likelihood for future success and lessen risk factors.

A primary focus for The Stride is racism and equity. Johanna Clark, Program Developmental Specialist, remarked that “change happens when people look at truth and the impact on others.” By having a clear understanding of Canada’s history, we can come to see where we are now by re-learning and un-learning history.

Johanna also curates the monthly newsletter with guidance from the Advisory Circle, addressing various topics, recommending books, articles, or podcasts to support learning.

The Stride is comprised of people from all backgrounds, the corporate world, government agencies, small LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

businesses, and a variety of sectors from the Calgary communities. Because of these meetings with others, people recognize the need for truth-telling, sharing innovative ideas and connecting with one another.

As The Stride’s platform grows, members continue to meet, in person or online to listen and learn. The goal is to create a community to lead us into a vibrant future. The young leaders of today will be the voices of tomorrow as they “stride” into the future.

To get connected, visit https:// thestride.ca/ and join the community-minded citizens of Calgary.

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LadiesCorner

Serving Edmonton with LISA HOLMES

L

isa Holmes is the Chief of Staff to Major Amarjeet Sohi. She was the former Mayor of Morinville and the past President of Alberta Municipalities. She spent some time with LCCMedia recently.

How is life different as Chief of Staff than as Mayor of Morinville?

I loved serving the people of Morinville and focusing on local issues there. This position allows me to do similar meaningful work but on a larger scale and on work that impacts not just Edmonton but the entire Edmonton Metropolitan Region. It is unusual to have a retired politician in this role, but the experience (and thick skin) that I developed in my time offers a really unique perspective to the Mayor that I hope can be useful as we navigate through some of the challenges that come up.

May we ask what a chief of staff does? Can you share a glimpse into what your morning at work looks like?

It is definitely busy! We start each day with a full team virtual meeting that lets us check in on each other and discuss the events of the day. For the rest of the day, it can be a lot of stakeholder meetings, strategy discussions or internal team meetings. I communicate a lot with the Mayor, especially if he is participating in a Council or Committee meeting. My job is to offer the Mayor strategic advice, to be a sounding board, and in lots of cases to be a friend who understands the challenges of living a public life. I am also his main liaison with City Administration and oversee a team of incredible individuals who are also committed to doing this important and impactful work through the lens of kindness, equity, and empathy that the Mayor leads with.

Lisa Holmes

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I loved serving the people of Morinville and focusing on local issues there.

This position allows me to do similar meaningful work but on a larger scale

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

February, 2022 The Mayor is working hard to be inclusive. What are his priorities around antiracism?

Mayor Sohi presented a desire in the election to build an Edmonton for all of us and that statement is at the heart of all of the work we do. We want to give space to have the difficult but necessary conversations around systemic and institutional racism and ending hate-based violence. The City of Edmonton, through the Anti-Racism report and the associated work, has a unique opportunity to invest in recommendations that will empower BIPOC communities as partners and leaders in anti-racism. The Mayor sees this as generational work that he as Mayor and the City of Edmonton is ready to tackle in a meaningful way.

plementation of those recommendations. We will need to guide the community through our recovery from COVID-19, looking at our City’s economic health and our individual mental health challenges. We also want to ensure that we are building processes and entry points into our office and into the municipal systems for individuals and groups that feel like they have not been able to connect with the Mayor’s office in the past.

You have had an amazing career so far - would you say we need more women in politics?

Absolutely! Our leadership bodies need to fully represent the people that they serve which means our local governments need the participation of more women, but more specifically more immigrant women, more Indigenous women, more racialized women, more young women. Generally speaking, our governments have a hard time reaching the minimum target set of 30% female participation and marginalized groups are even more underrepresented.

Volunteering is important- how can people reading this get involved in the community around them?

My journey through elected life and into this position started with volunteering. My parents always felt it was important to contribute to their local community with both their money and their time. As a young parent in a small town, I joined the local library board since it was a place that was integral to our daily lives and I wanted to support their work. Board work is a great way to gain experience if you are thinking about running for office. But there is also need in our home communities for the small actions, helping neighbours with snow removal, picking up trash along your walking path, filling out engagement surveys to ensure your perspective is heard - all of these contribute to a more vibrant and strong community.

What are the Mayor’s legislative goals for 2022?

Our office is focused on working to ensure the Mayor’s platform commitments are moving forward. His first motion resulted in the co-creation of the Anti Racism Report and we are looking forward to supporting the im-

International Women’s Day theme is Break the Bias. How can more women be supported to enter politics ?

To be truly supportive of increasing women’s participation in local government, we need to encourage, fund, and hustle for those who are

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

brave enough to put their names forward. But we also need to support the women who are in leadership roles now. Celebrate local community leaders that show up and do the work - whether it is through schools, non-profits, community boards or organizations - these women are already city building and would be incredible assets as municipal leaders in the future.

How do you help the Mayor to be available to so many interests and groups who need him?

The Mayor and I both know what an incredible privilege it is to work for this short time to support the people of Edmonton. He loves to be out in the community, meeting with Edmontonians and our team is there to make sure that the work continues so that he can engage with people as much as possible. Our focus is to be accessible to those that we serve and to ensure that they feel valued and supported as we connect them to help and services they need.

Do you find time to read leisurely? May we ask what books are on your bedside table?

I love reading, especially books about history or by local authors.

Right now I have a lot of reports and work briefings to get through but I’m trying to find time to read for fun and learning. I am currently re-reading a favourite, Rosina the Midwife by Jessica Kluth, and discovering a new perspective on how I view cities through Beth Saunder’s Nest City.

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LadiesCorner

Not leaving life to chance

Spotlight Focus on the Vice President of University of Alberta Black Student Organization

with JUSTINAH ADEYANJU Justinah Adeyanju

J

Justinah feels that by cultivating a safe place, primarily for Black students, members can build members’ connection to the community and perhaps bring to light, the social injustice that is occurring in the community. back to the community.

ustinah Adeyanju is a fourthyear student at the University of Alberta, pursuing a Chemistry/Psychology degree. She was born in Nigeria and raised in Canada. Besides practising weight lifting and bodybuilding, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones and volunteering for the student life community. She enjoys creating abstract art for others and also for herself. She told LCCMedia, she picked the University of Alberta “because of its excellent reputation for high-quality research possibilities and because it offers a wide range of programs from which an impressionable mind may choose a professional path.” She first attended a University of Alberta Black Student Association(UABSA) Black history month event during her first year and the experience impacted her so much that she knew she had to be a part of UABSA. She ran for the position of Vice President which she has held for two years.

When she is not studying, she is at a clinic working as an optometric assistant. Her primary responsibility is to manage clinic patient flow and ensure the optometrist has sufficient supplies. She also provides pre-testing and contact lens training, as well as assisting patients in choosing and fitting eyeglasses.

“As a black student, I feel compelled to have this “dual

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consciousness”; one that is shown to non-black peers in order to be accepted, and another one to serve my blackness.” Justinah feels that it is an interaction with prejudice and stereotyping and so, by cultivating a safe place, primarily for Black students, members can build members’ connection to the community and perhaps bring to light, the social injustice that is occurring in the community. UABSA also holds workshops, hosts seminars with notable speakers, and involves students in entertaining activities, thus serving the members through education, knowledge and fellowship.

“The Student Union has been helpful in bringing to light some of our concerns on campus, but there is always more to be done.” The organization has much work to do, but Justinah is certain that with more cooperation and discussions, they will be able to develop some concrete strategies to assist in establishing a welcoming environment for all black students. Being a member of a large organization such as the UABSA has allowed Justinah to set high expectations and clear goals for the organization. Justinah and some of her fellow executives continue to find balance and rhythm with a positive routine of work and school to ensure UABSA is as successful as they wish it to be.

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

Women in Tech with ADETOUN ABBY AIYELEYE

A

detoun Abby Aiyeleye is an innovator, entrepreneur and co-founder of Clavis Studio.

Clavis Studio is an online design platform that simplifies the home design experience for professionals and design enthusiasts using immersive 3D technology.

Through their interactive experience, the company is expanding market access for small businesses and creating opportunities for people who want simple, integrated and highly-effective tools to get their work done. At Clavis Studio, they are redefining the methods people use to approach design. They also showcase the immeasurable possibilities in design and infrastructure planning.

Abby’s first recollection of her interest in this line of work and becoming an entrepreneur, was when she was in college, studying for her A-levels.

She was also working by offering CD_ ROM installation and training services on new applications for small businesses in Southeast London.

Because Clavis Studio processes were built for end-to-end online service delivery, the pandemic further highlighted the need for more virtual client interaction and 3D visualization tools within the design industry. They have completed projects for clients in Western and Atlantic Canada, Hong Kong, California and Georgia, USA, Sydney, Australia, and Lagos, Nigeria.

“It is important to share access to resources and create opportunities for women like myself...”

Abby is proud of the amazing team at Clavis Studio and their success since their official launch in 2021. As it is for every growth-oriented company, there are always more milestones to be achieved and Abby indicates that “we have a 5-year roadmap that keeps us on track. It’s also beneficial that we have a great ecosystem rooting for our success.”

Abby is an avid reader who keeps up-to-date with her favourite authors, including Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. She finds that Chimamanda has a palpable conviction in her approach to everything that interests Abby. It is not only through Chimamanda’s writing, but Abby is inspired by Chimamanda’s speaking engagements, her family, and her fashion. “You can sense that this woman enjoys what she does and this is parallel to how I approach my personal and professional goals.” Another favourite book Abby enjoys is Good Strategy, Bad Strategy by Richard P. Rumelt.

Abby has had the opportunity to meet many innovative BIPOC women in the tech industry because women continue to become more involved in the industry. What’s important for her is sharing access to resources and creating opportunities for women like

Adetoun Abby Aiyeleye

herself to occupy spaces where others can thrive. Together they will expand the possibilities of a tech-driven Albertan economy.

In a few weeks, Clavis Studio will open their platform to other professionals and aspiring designers to start creating their own beautiful spaces and collaborating with their clients through their web platform. They have seen that there is a shared vision within the industry and they would like to continue creating job opportunities and expanding market access for designers. Clavis Studio has ongoing digital media campaigns. They are giving a select number of people beta access to version 2 of their platform via clavisstudio.ca so, be sure to connect with them and be one of those selected few that can access their platform.

LadiesCorner Africa Centre has been an advocate for anti-racism and providing equal opportunities for the people of African descent in Alberta. They do this through programming and ensuring that community members have access to funding and resources.

Their work includes anti-racism education, advocacy and community capacity-building initiatives.

Eve has seen exciting, life-changing experiences from the work she is involved in. Recently, one of the employment and skills development participants gave a testimony about how the program boosted his morale and desire to do more with his life after he had suffered from moments of feeling useless. This young boy “made me so emotional and proud of how Africa Centre is impacting people’s lives. It is the little things that matter most,” Eve shared.

Behind the Scenes at Africa Centre with EVE UWAMAHORO

Eve Uwamahoro

E

ve Uwamahoro, is a mother, married with 6 children who makes Edmonton her home. She serves the Edmonton community through Africa Centre as a Finance and Human Resource Assistant. For the past 9 years, Eve has worked with Africa Centre and served in various capacities. Starting off as an administrative assistant, she has grown to be the Finance and Human Resource Assistant. Through this process, she has interacted with hundreds of Edmontonians of African descent through different programs. Eve states that “it really gives me the utmost pleasure to continue serving several communities and Edmontonians at large.”

The Africa Centre has several programs and services that continue to uplift the community. Because she is part of the team that supports the implantation of all the services, Eve has noticed that the community has grown significantly and seen that more community members are accessing various services. There is also a reduction in the stigma attached to talking about mental health and accessing therapy thanks to the free counselling clinic available.

Eve has always been passionate about serving her community and she has resolved to dedicate her 2022 to continue serving the community through Africa Centre. She relishes the fact that she can be closer to her children to help them succeed with their studies, now that there have been situations where learning is taking place online. She is also pursuing a degree from Athabasca University. She plans on spending 2022 balancing her education, work and her personal life.

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LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

February, 2022 Sponsored Content

Changing Lives One Person at a Time

I

Sipiwe Mapfumo HIV Community Link

n the midst of a global pandemic, HIV is an epidemic.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recently estimated that HIV infections have risen 31% between 2013 and 2018 and are increasing yearly. The histories, narratives, and stories of various communities of people living with and affected

by HIV in Canada have socio-historical links that to this day affect lives. In Alberta alone, it is estimated that in 2020, 24% black men and 40% black women of new HIV cases with the same community represent approximately 26% of Canada’s new HIV diagnosis. In addition, approx. in 1 in 7 people living with HIV in Canada are identify as part of the African, Caribbean, and Black community.

Treatment is available to allow people living with HIV, long, healthy futures. However, fears, myths, and misunderstandings surrounding HIV transmission are still prevalent in our society and so service providers focus on educational awareness through workshops, support services, resources, consultation, and distributing correct information regarding transmission of HIV. How can we change that?

African, Caribbean, and Black communities in Canada are unjustly affect-

Marilyn Chimbaira HIV Edmonton

ed by HIV. Two organizations in Alberta are seeking to address HIV stigma towards and within the ACB communities and to make positive changes through prevention, education, community dialogue, and programming.

HIV Community Link (originally AIDS Calgary Awareness Association) and HIV Edmonton (originally AIDS Network of Edmonton) founded in 1983 and 1984 respectively, are harm reduction organizations dedicated to educating others, raising awareness, and working to support HIV prevention.

HIV Edmonton is a not-for-profit community organization that uses community connections, dialogue, conversation café series, and even craft workshops as tools to address issues surrounding HIV. Since the pandemic, focus has shifted to Zoom meetings and on-line presentations about the basics of HIV and prevention of further transmission within our communities.

Online events inform participants about health and wellness.

HIV Community Link is a non-profit community organization that serves people living with or at risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. By educating communities, helping people to better understand their diagnosis, and providing non-judgmental tools, in-

LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

formation, and support, they offer programs and services to populations in Calgary and Southeastern Alberta. HIV Community Link addresses the stigma surrounding HIV and provide services through outreach programs, special events, education, and prevention activities. Drumbeat, an HIVCL program serving African, Black, and Caribbean communities in Calgary, focuses on addressing stigma and removing barriers to care for ACB community members impacted by HIV. Drumbeat offers informational material in several African languages, is evidence-based and culturally informed, and is designed to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

Both organizations recognize the need to work collectively to bridge the informational gap, raise awareness of risks associated with HIV, and provide supports for those living with and affected by HIV. One participant shared that “my loved one died of AIDS years ago but this is the first time I was able to talk about this.” Perhaps we need more conversations, more human connections, and regardless of cultural differences, demographics, or education, more changes need to be made.

HIV Edmonton and HIV Community Link in Calgary are doing just that by changing one life at a time.

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LadiesCorner Sponsored Content

The Ribbon Rouge Foundation The Ribbon Rouge Foundation (RRF) is a grassroots organization that focuses on health equity and advocates for social justice by facilitating systems change, in structural and social determinants that lead to better health outcomes, including HIV-related health outcomes in Africa, the Caribbean, Black (ACB) communities.

T

he facilitation of change is done through research, storytelling, community-engaged arts, and intentional meaningful community conversations to change perceptions, stir social conscience, educate the public, and create positive social change.

They remain committed to raising the voices of people who experience poorer health outcomes as a result of racialized health disparities.

HIV Photovoice Project The HIV Photovoice project was conducted to learn and understand the HIV-related barriers that ACB women diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families face when accessing social and health care services. The project allowed us to understand the role of social structures in creating and perpetuating HIV/AIDS related discrimination - fear and denial. The participants of this project shared their strengths and strategies used to overcome such barriers and other related issues in the context of their

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Funke Olokude

own communities, as well as the wider Canadian society.

The work brought about extensive outreach work and one on one conversations in Grand Prairie, Fort McMurray, Calgary, Lethbridge, and Edmonton. The project recommended the following to facilitate better access to social and health care services for ACB women diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS: education for healthcare providers, faster immigration document processing, childcare services for HIV positive women, changes to times for group activities at HIV Edmonton.

Executive Director To facilitate RRF’s service to ACB Albertans, the organization welcomed its new Executive Director, Funke Olokude in October 2021. Funke has extensive work experience in the social service industry working with diverse populations and sectors in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, where she has continuously promoted equity in policy and practice that has led to transformational relationships beLadiesCorner – Spring 2022

tween individuals and within systems.

She has a B.A. Hons. in Psychology from York University, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary, a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Alberta, and she is a Registered Social Worker with the Alberta College of Social Workers.

Funke has earned many recognitions over her career lifespan and in 2020, she was named Top 40 under 40 for her continued work in influencing policies and practices across various sectors in Alberta. She currently serves on the boards of the Bredin Centre for Career Advancement, Black Business Ventures Association (BBVA) and is the convener of an Ethnocultural Community Leadership Circle. Funke is excited to join RRF, as she continues her journey on equitable relationships and transformative leadership. To learn more about the Ribbon Rouge Foundation, please visit our website at ribbonrouge.com

I am paying bills.

Mom, what are I need to pay bills. you doing?

What bills are you

How can we help?

paying mommy?

The heater you put on costs money, the water you use costs money!

I also need to pay off my credit cards!

Thanks for asking and I have been thinking about how you can help

Judah, what did you do… now we have work.

Calm down Naomi.

Mom what do we have to do?

we have to set goals for this year.

Goals? What!

Why?

You have to plan your life.

This will be our very first exercise in planning as a family and as individuals.

What do goals do?

You are not a baby!

Mom! But we are still young, and I am your baby!

so why do we plan!

we plan so that we can follow the plan Like when we plan to go out, mom you change your mind and say change of plan guys

Judah you are 10 years old and Naomi you are 13 years old. You need to learn how to make a plan for your life and future.

A plan is how you get from point A to point B

Very funny Judah!

I am talking about more important things.

Naomi stop the drama, put that phone down and get me your journal! You too Judah. Both of you meet me on the dining table. We need to write down our plan for the year 2022.

Mom, I would like to play for a drum band…..

I would like to go on a beach vacation.

Finally! Some academic goal thought. Naomi, what are your goals?

So, if you want to be the best tennis player or best drummer, how do you become this? the plan tells you the things you must do, to achieve your goal so you start with goals: lets dream a little…..

Judah, tell me what would you like to see happen for you this year?

Oh wow!

What else?

Oh wow!

Great goal….

I want make all A's this semester.

Oh mom, where do I start!

1.I want to have lots of money so I can go to the mall zand buy fancy things 2.I want to go on a Beach vacation with my friends 3.I want to be a superstar singer…..and dancer 4.I want to learn how to cook so I can make all these Oh yes, I want to make lots and lots of money.

nice things for us to eat.

Anymore goals…

Any school goals…?

Mom, Oh yeah!

To do well in my grades……..

You both have lovely goals…… some of them quite interesting! But I love them all.

Let’s see – how do we plan for this beach vacation – lets use this as an example.

So here is the thing – Nothing just happens.! This means that your beach vacation, your making lots of money, your being a superstar, the best drummer, cooking, etc

We need money for the tickets, we need to do laundry, we need to clean the house , we need to make sure bill are paid! We need to check if our documents ( (passports, visas, immunization certificates...) are up to date.

Okay, Nothing just happens…..

Mom, oh wow

So we break down the plan….. and we write the things we need to do, and that is why you have a journal… lets break it down.

We need money: how do we get money? Money is very important.

What do we need to go for vacation?

We need to book tickets! We need to pack our clothes and we need to go to the airport.

Yes, you see, it is a process! You see, it is quite impossible to just show up at the airport to travel without having planned properly…

We save, or just collect it from you.

We work.

No, you work, and you save. So for a vacation for the 3 of us, how much do you think we need?

We can sell stuff on FB market place. We can sell our old items, our old clothe and shoes.

This is fun and exhausting at the same time.

Yes it can be. The point to this exercise, is that you must think about your life and what you hope to accomplish and how you want to accomplish it. It is important to note that nothing just happens. Success is not magical. You must work hard, plan and take action. You must be consistent. Now, go to your rooms and go plan how you intend to succeed in school this year.

I love you both!

You will show me your plans later today!

February, 2022

Your HAIR and YOU

BY FEMI ADEYEMO

Regardless of how you feel, you must be proud of your hair. You must begin the journey of starting a relationship with your hair. Your natural kinky hair can be a gem but can also be a challenge, depending on if you know how to take care of it. Here are some healthy and handy tips to maintain the natural beauty of your hair.

Find out your hair type. For example, are you Type 4c or Type 3b? You can find out more about your hair type on Youtube.

Figure out your hair porosity. This is how easily your hair absorbs nutrients. To determine your hair porosity, you need to do a float test. Take a couple of strands of your hair from a comb or brush and drop them into a bowl of water. Let them sit for 2-4 minutes. If your hair floats, you have low porosity. If it sinks, you have high porosity.

Find hair products that match your hair type and porosity.

Find and follow other people with the same hair type as you. Nurturing your hair can be a community thing.

Find your community on Tiktok, Youtube or Instagram.

If needed, make natural hair remedies that serve different purposes for helping you and your hair during your hair care. The best oil remedy depends on the problems you are having.

Protective styling - don’t keep your hair out all year round, protect it by braiding or twisting your hair.

It is healthy to drink water because it is healthy for your hair as well. Wet hair is easier to comb and style.

Lastly, have fun with your “hair affair” as a healthy hair journey can take your whole life to manage. There is plenty of time to make mistakes. So enjoy it in style!

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LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

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LadiesCorner

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LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

LadiesCorner

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LadiesCorner – Spring 2022

Calgarians make up .02% of the nea rly 8 billion people on earth.

We are outnumbered by identical twins, redheads and people born on

a leap day.

This seemingly vast city of ours is but a blip on the face of the earth.

That’s why our shared geography is such a wondrous thing.

All 1.28 million of us may not share views, but we share a home.

are sound the same — but we We may not look, think or

profoundly connected.

We’re all connec ted.

year, Our work is to strengthen, support, and foster those connections. Last of our city, to $66.9 million was granted to 1,105 charitable organizations in every corner lending libraries. support causes as myriad as our citizens — from large organizations to

As that funding spreads

across the city, our hope is

that it brings something els

The idea that we’re more connected than we know.

So, maybe the next time you pass someone on the street you won’t see

e with it — an idea.

a stranger.

You’ll see someone who belongs to the same .02% as you.

And the next time you see Calgary Foundation, you’ll see your founda tion. Calgary’s Foundation.

calgaryfoundation.org

Star bright.

Funding from Edmonton Community Foundation supports the Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund and provides the means for our city’s creative community to grow its cultural roots. As gifts expressing respect and recognition, Andrea Bellegarde-Courchene’s star blankets wrap the recipient in the rich past and bold promise of the Indigenous culture.

Donations to ECF inspire hope, create opportunity and enhance the Edmonton lifestyle. We work with our donors to give, grow and transform. ecfoundation.org helps Edmonton shine.

Charity begins at Home.