IWD Virtual Gala 2021

#GiveToGain #IWD2026

GIVE TO GAIN

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Awards | Keynote Speaker | Silent Auction | Music & Awards

Gender Equal World

WE STAND FOR A MORE GENDER EQUAL WORLD!

Gender Equal World

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Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

Gender Equal World

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Faces of WEST

Introducing the

Multicultural women

Our Programs Are Funded By

Canadian Women's Foundation

Community Foundations of Canada

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST)

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) was developed in 1984 as a response to disproportionately high levels of unemployment among women and the difficulties experienced by women attempting to enter the workforce.

During the course of development, it became apparent that the most disadvantaged women, in terms of training and employment opportunities, were visible minorities. As a result of those findings, a plan was implemented to create a technical and life skills training program specific to the needs of visible minority women residing in Windsor-Essex. WEST, a non-profit corporation and registered charitable organization, is the realization of that initiative.

With funding from Human Resources Development Canada, WEST opened its doors in February 1987, offering unique training opportunities for women from Windsor-Essex and around the globe. Through skills enhancement and volunteer placements, visible minority women have been prepared for entry to employment and have moved closer to achieving the success they desire.

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Feb 16

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Happy Family day. WEST wishes everyone a wonderful Family Day.

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Feb 14

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✨ Meet Lindiwe Sithole

In celebration of Black History Month, WEST is proud to highlight our remarkable Black employees whose dedication and leadership continue to uplift our community.

Lindiwe is an Educator and Employment Counselor/Job Developer with over 10 years of experience empowering individuals to reach their full potential. A proud mother of two, woman of faith, and purpose-driven leader, she is deeply committed to resilience, humility, and creating meaningful impact through her work.

For Lindiwe, Black History Month is more than reflection — it is a reminder of legacy, responsibility, and purpose. Each day, she supports individuals seeking opportunity, stability, and dignity through employment. Her work goes beyond résumés and interviews; it is about empowerment, rebuilding confidence, and helping people break cycles to create better futures for themselves and their families.

Lindiwe shares:

“Black history is not only about what we have overcome. It is about what we continue to build. Every time someone believes in their worth again, walks into an interview with confidence, or says ‘I got the job,’ that is impact. That is progress. That is legacy in motion.”

We are grateful for Lindiwe’s compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing economic empowerment and community growth.

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Feb 13

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Feb 12

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✨ Meet Ryan T. Richardson

In celebration of Black History Month, WEST is proud to highlight our incredible Black employees whose leadership, dedication, and impact continue to strengthen our community.

With roots in Bermuda and Essex County, Ryan studied Political Science, Criminology, and Law at the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy. He has applied his legal and professional expertise through teaching Continuing Education and Professional Development courses at St. Clair College, as well as serving as a board member with organizations including Commonwealth Regal, FACTOR, and The Black Council of Windsor-Essex.

Ryan first joined WEST as a sessional instructor for the Women in Skilled Trades program, later teaching courses for EWE and LEAD. Today, in his role as a Job Developer, he is passionate about helping women recognize their strengths, build confidence, and create opportunities that positively impact their families and futures.

When asked, “What does Black History Month mean to you?” Ryan shares:

“Black History Month creates an opportunity to share the stories, challenges, and perseverance of the Black community in Windsor-Essex and its progressive impact on the world. It also brings awareness to this region’s important role in the Underground Railroad and Civil Rights Movement — for example, many do not know that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once spoke at the Jackson Park Bandshell in Windsor.”

When asked, “What impact do you hope your work has?” Ryan says:

“I hope to encourage clients and employers to think bigger — about their skills and their role in creating a more inclusive world. Recognizing barriers to employment is the first step toward overcoming them and emerging as leaders.”

We are grateful for Ryan’s mentorship, leadership, and commitment to empowering women in our community.

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Feb 12

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WEST had a great time attending the Chili Fest at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts 🌶️ It was wonderful connecting with community partners, enjoying the lively atmosphere, and celebrating the spirit of togetherness that makes Windsor-Essex so special. @stclaircollegecentre4arts

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Feb 11

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🎨✨ LEAD 4 – Intake 7 participants at WEST explored their creative side during a fun Paint with YouTube workshop! With step-by-step YouTube tutorials, the young women expressed themselves through art, enjoyed the process, and shared lots of laughter. This interactive session provided a refreshing break from daily routines and highlighted the value of creativity, mindfulness, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. At WEST, we are committed to supporting young women through both personal growth and career development, and this activity brought the best of both together! 💪🖌️#YoungWomenInLEAD #WESTofWindsor #CreativityInAction #PaintWithYouTube #SkillBuilding

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Feb 11

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🌟 LEAD Intake 7 participants had a wonderful opportunity to meet with Rose Anguiano Hurst, Executive Director of WEST! During the session, Rose offered valuable insights into how WEST supports youth in building essential skills, accessing training opportunities, and securing meaningful employment to help them achieve their ambitions. The conversation was uplifting and encouraging, leaving participants feeling inspired and more confident about their next steps. A heartfelt thank you to Rose for taking the time to connect with and motivate our future leaders! #LEADProgram #WESTofWindsor #YouthEmpowerment #FutureLeaders #WomenEmpoweringWomen

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Feb 11

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✨ Meet Seita Sadoo-Thomas

In celebration of Black History Month, WEST is proud to highlight our wonderful Black employees whose leadership, excellence, and dedication continue to strengthen our organization and community.

Originally from St. Lucia, Seita is WEST’s Programs Manager of Youth, Communication, Fund Development, and Special Projects. With an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Technology Management and over seven years of dedicated service at WEST, Seita brings strong business acumen to her work in grant writing, fund development, and strategic communications.

She leads impactful programs such as LEAD, SEAT, and gender equality initiatives, continuously driving innovative strategies that empower youth and advance equity.

When asked, “What impact do you hope your work has?” Seita shares:

“I hope my work creates lasting opportunities for young women and youth to see their potential, access resources confidently, and step into leadership knowing they belong.”

We are grateful for Seita’s vision, leadership, and commitment to propelling WEST’s mission forward.

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Feb 10

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WEST was delighted to welcome back the team from Lucier Glove & Safety Products — James, Kris, and Jessica — for a tour and for their generous donation in support of our upcoming International Women’s Day event on March 8, 2026.

We’re grateful to live and work in such a supportive and welcoming community.

@luciergloveandsafety

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