1. Tell us about yourself.
I am from Afghanistan and graduated from law school. I participated with an NGO called Ascend and was a part of a group of 45 mountain climbing girls I wrote my first book on the topic of how much time a person must wait before going to jail in Afghanistan and international law. I wrote the book in just nine months. Although it’s not translated into English yet, it’s a piece of work I’m proud of. I wrote this book while trying to look for a job in a law firm since I wasn’t being accepted anywhere because I was a girl, Shia, and from the Hazara people who are discriminated against. I worked in HR and then at a local clothing store despite my education in law. This made me sad. When the Taliban came, it became dangerous. For 2 months we could not leave to go outside. They came to my house and it was very scary.

Then with the help of my American teacher from Ascend, my parents and I left for Dubai where we lived for 10.5 months. This was worse than jail. I am so thankful to Canada for bringing us here. I’m so lucky to now be in Canada – this is my golden chance. It is very hard to be an immigrant, I miss my life, family, and home, but now this is a new life. I am so lucky to be here in Canada because life is not in the past, it is here. I am at peace now.

I hope that in the next five years, I am in the university learning. I want to improve my skills and one day work at WEST. I want help other immigrants at WEST with my positive energy. I want to tell them that being immigrant is very hard, but we are human and strong. It is important to remember that if you want, you can. And if you can, you give back.

2. What does WEST mean to you?
Being new in Canada is hard. Looking for work is not easy. I can wash dishes or clean because I am available and I want, but I am unlucky. I apply at stores, hotels, but am told that I don’t have Canadian experience. I just want one chance. This is the story for all immigrants. Coming to a new country is very, very hard. But WEST has helped me improve my skills and help me make friends.

WEST is a very good organization for women. It helps us dream bigger. It pushes women and girls to new lives and futures. It helps us to not just stay at home and take care of the husband and children. I believe women have dreams too, and WEST helps us to follow them. It gives the support we need, and it reminds us that we are important. Being at WEST has helped me feel welcomed, it pushed me to a better future.

3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
Two months into living in Windsor, I checked in google and saw WEST. This is an organization for women for girls for free. I sent an email with my information because I want to improve my skills. I met Ms. Saba for the computer program and got a certificate. I have made friends like Paula, Maha, Mursal, and Anabella. I also did the EWE program, and it helped me with public speaking and I learned new things. Ms. Maha helped me a lot too. She got me ready for my driving test and I passed by G1. WEST makes me feel like I belong. It helps my mind be comfortable.

I was also invited to go to the IWD party and I enjoyed that very much. I felt so lucky being in a beautiful place with important people. I felt like I was flying. I am so lucky to have found WEST.

4. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
One thing I’ve learned from my journey at WEST is to never give up, no matter how very hard things may seem. Being an immigrant is very hard, and the pressure is a lot. But you have to fight through it. You have to believe in yourself. I’m here now, living a better life, and it’s thanks to not giving up and continuing to try. You have to fight the stress and worry. You have to fight being scared. I fought and now I can enjoy my life. I still get scared, but I am now happy and excited for my future.

5. What empowers you?
What empowers me is my ability to keep going, even when life is hard. I’ve faced many challenges in Afghanistan, but now, I’m in Canada, and I feel safe. This feeling of safety and the opportunity to improve myself gives me hope and happiness. I also feel empowered by my family. I take care of my parents, and they push me to keep going for better. They are very supportive.

6. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
My advice is to always believe in yourself and keep fighting. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I stand in front of the mirror and tell myself: “I want, I can. Canada is freedom. Canada is for all immigrants. If you can make it in Afghanistan, you can make it in Canada.” I tell myself, “I will continue. I will enjoy life. I will not stress.”

No matter how difficult life may seem, you have to keep going. The challenges are real, but if you believe in your ability to fight them, nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams.

1. Tell us about yourself.
My name is Arezo Anwari, and I’m a vibrant 20-year-old with a passion for both sports and creativity. I’ve been living here for almost two years, and I’m currently an honours student at Catholic Central High School.

When I’m not studying, you can find me engaging in my two favorite hobbies: playing sports and tailoring. My passion for sports is evident in my energetic and competitive nature. I love staying active, whether it’s playing soccer, basketball, or volleyball. My dedication to outdoor and teamwork has made me a valuable asset to my sports teams, and I am always up for a challenge.

In contrast, my tailoring hobby showcases my artistic side. I find solace in creating something from scratch, carefully stitching together fabrics to bring my designs to life. My attention to detail and creativity have resulted in stunning pieces that showcase my talent.

I joined the WEST Youth Program in January 2023, and as a volunteer it was my pleasures to be part of the team and work for people to help them during their journey.

My diverse interests and skills make me a unique and well-rounded individual. My positivity, enthusiasm, and determination inspire those around me, and I am always willing to lend a helping hand or offer support. With my multifaceted personality, I am sure to achieve great things in all aspects of my life.

2. What does WEST mean to you?
WEST has so much meaning for me and I cannot summarize it in a paragraph but it is a place for “empowerment”, a platform to unlock our potential and break free from limitations. Another meaning of WEST to me is “supportive community” – a network of like-minded women who understand and uplift each other. Also, “personal growth” meaning a journey of self-discovery and development, helping you grow in confidence and self-belief. “Entrepreneurial Spirit” as it is a hub for women to explore their business ideas and turn them into reality. Lastly, “resilience” since it is a safe space to face challenges and overcome obstacles with courage and determination. It provides “opportunities” access to resources, mentorship, and training to help you achieve your dreams. It also provides “sisterhood”– a sense of belonging to a community that celebrates women’s strengths and successes. And it means a “catalyst for positive change,” helping you become the best version of yourself.

3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
I got involved with Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) of Windsor because I was seeking a supportive community to help me grow my business and overcome personal challenges. WEST’s holistic approach, which combines business training with personal development and mentorship, resonated with me. Through WEST, I gained confidence, clarity, and a network of like-minded women who understand the unique challenges we face.

4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
What sets WEST apart is its focus on empowering women to break free from limiting beliefs and societal expectations, allowing us to tap into our full potential.

5. In your experience, what are some key challenges faced by participants, and how does WEST effectively address them?
Participants often face challenges like self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and lack of resources, but WEST effectively addresses these through workshops, coaching, and peer support.

6. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you have gained that you would like to share with others?
My journey with WEST taught me the importance of self-care and self-compassion in achieving success.

7. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
My advice to women striving to achieve their dreams is to embrace our uniqueness, trust our instincts, and surround ourselves with people who uplift and support us. Remember, our dreams are worth fighting for, and with the right mindset and support, we can achieve anything we set our mind to and WEST is the best place to make those dreams come true.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   My name is Kristi Koutros, and I am a registered Social Worker. I completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Windsor. I love to feed my passion for volunteering and giving back to the community that has given me so much. I am actively involved with the Optimist Club of Riverside and serve as the Southwestern Ontario District Chair for an essay scholarship. I have a little fur baby named Lucy; she has a lot of personality. Some of my hobbies include cycling, pageantry, painting, and gardening. A fun fact about me is that I love cooking new recipes.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   WEST means a lot to me as it has been a cornerstone in my journey toward personal and professional growth. Through the Women in LEAD program, I have improved essential skills that boosted my confidence and opened up new career opportunities that I might not have had otherwise.
3. How does WEST support individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating and overcoming systemic barriers?
   WEST offers an array of programs designed to support newcomers, youth, and promote gender equality while providing comprehensive employment assistance. For newcomers, WEST provides settlement services and language training to help integrate into the community and workforce. Youth programs focus on skill development, career guidance, and mentorship to prepare young women for successful futures. Gender equality initiatives aim to empower women through advocacy, education, and leadership opportunities. Additionally, WEST offers employment assistance through job placement services, resume-building workshops, and interview preparation, ensuring that all women have the tools and support needed to achieve their career goals. WEST continues to live by its values and dedicate itself to fostering, promoting, and advocating for inclusivity and diversity for all women.
4. Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
   Embracing cultural diversity is important every day, whether at work or in my personal life. I have recently become friends with my neighbors from Nepal. They have graciously invited me to their cultural celebrations, continuously provided me with teachings, and introduced me to their cultural dishes. I have found a deep appreciation for their culture and admire their strengths when facing adversity.
5. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
   Some advice I have for women is to believe in your abilities and set clear, achievable goals to stay focused and motivated. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to take risks. Remember to celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and stay resilient in the face of setbacks.
6. What empowers you?
   What empowers me is setting clear and achievable goals, which provide direction and purpose in my life. Connecting with my community fosters a sense of belonging and support, while believing in myself and using positive affirmations boosts my confidence and resilience.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   I’m currently in the lead program at WEST, which is helping me improve my resume and my job search skills. I’ve worked in various roles, including Early Childhood Education Assistant, Office Assistant, and more, where I developed strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills. I’m passionate about cultural diversity, and translation work allows me to bridge communication gaps. In my free time, I enjoy doing henna art, which connects me to my cultural heritage. A fun fact about me is that I prefer traveling with family members over friends—it makes the experience more meaningful and connected.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   WEST has had a big impact on both my personal and professional growth. Through the lead program, I’ve learned how to improve my resume and become more confident in public speaking. The support I’ve received from the team has helped me feel more prepared for the next steps in my career. WEST is a place that empowers people and helps them grow in ways that matter.
3. How does WEST support individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating and overcoming systemic barriers?
   WEST really understands the challenges people from diverse backgrounds face. They offer many different programs, like the youth program and leadership development, that help us build the skills we need to overcome these challenges. For me, interview sessions preparation was helpful in boosting my confidence during my job search. It’s not just about learning skills; it’s about having the right support to succeed.
4. Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
   One experience that stands out is when I was doing translation work. I had to make sure the message wasn’t just translated but also conveyed in a way that respected cultural differences. This taught me how important cultural sensitivity is, both in professional situations and in personal interactions. It showed me how understanding diversity can make communication more meaningful and effect.
5. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
   My biggest inspiration is my mother. Her ability to make the orphans feel loved, even when she’s not physically with them, shows her deep compassion and leadership. She always finds a way to help, no matter how difficult things get, and her selflessness has taught me to believe in myself and always help others. I hope to follow in her footsteps and make a positive impact, just like she does every day.
6. What makes WEST different from other places that support women?
   WEST is special because it focuses on the whole person. It’s not just about skills; it’s about building a community of women who support each other. The programs at WEST are also sensitive to different cultures, which helps everyone feel included and supported.

1. Tell us about yourself.
Some fun facts about me is that I came to Canada when I was young. I was born in Coatzacoalcos Veracruz, Mexico which is along the eastern side, along the Gulf of Mexico. The first place I lived at was in Kitchener, Ontario with my Grandma, my Mom and my 4 Aunts, as well as my 2 cousins.

I made the decision to enter the Human Resources side of business because I’ve always thought that a strong HR Rep is essential for the wellbeing of a company to flourish and thrive. Intrinsically speaking, its satisfying to see happen and it’s always been in my nature to help people in almost any capacity. My favourite books at the moment are the Book of Secrets by Osho, and Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess by Bobby Fischer.

Currently Lola is my family pet and it’s sad to say that I am no longer living with my parents and I don’t get to see her every day, but I do make time every weekend to visit her. She’s always excited to see me as well and gets her favourite ball for us to play fetch and tug o war. Currently, my tenant has 3 cats that live with me at my own house. Their names are Fedex, Coco & Charlie. I’m fortunate to see them every day and I often spoil them with treats.

My hobbies at the moment are playing chess, exploring and travelling to new places, trying new cuisine, reading, surfing and the occasional video game here and there.

2. What does WEST mean to you?
WEST means a lot of things to me, as it is a haven that allows the fostering of everyone’s skills in a controlled and safe environment. I’m thankful to be apart of such a cause as it aligns with my personal moral compass. Seeing our clients smile because these things are in place for them, is very rewarding to see. We have great staff members here that allow every client to grow and excel into the person they wish to become.

3. How does WEST support individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating and overcoming systemic barriers?
WEST demonstrates to be a great support to individuals from the many diverse backgrounds that Windsor has. The staff and supports have always been aligned to WEST’s mission in being a leader to positioning women for success since day one. Through a combination of education, mentorship, community support, advocacy, and empowerment, WEST helps individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate the complexities of systemic barriers, enabling them to build more independent, fulfilling, and equitable lives. By addressing both the immediate challenges and the broader structural inequalities that exist, WEST works to create long-lasting change for individuals and their communities.

4. What are ways men can be good allies? What do we need to do to engage and inspire male advocates?
Some ways that men can be allies that I feel personally and try to demonstrate on a day to day, is to understand the challenges that women and marginalized groups face. To understand that there is privilege and that there is gender inequality that happens on a day to day. To listen and amplify women’s voices so that they’re heard as well. To create safe spaces for others to openly share their stories without fear and interruption. To stand up against gender-based violence. To advocate for gender equality in the workplace. To support women’s-based movements and organizations and to continue committing to the continuous improvement for women. To engage and inspire male advocates, I feel that men need to make women’s struggles personal and see why gender equality is important. Show that advocation for equality benefits everyone by creating healthier relationships, breaking down harmful expectations and opening doors for personal growth. Also, with the creation of peer to peer networks, as this’ll help establish where we can learn from one another in a safe environment to support each other. This I believe will help foster and build a sense of camaraderie amongst everyone.

5. Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
I wanted to know how it was like to participate in Ramadan by fasting and abstaining from a variety of things. As someone who grew up as a Roman Catholic, it was a huge shock to me because in Canada, we live comfortably and in a state of consumerism where we can eat and obtain food at almost any time. It made me never take these blessings for granted ever again and allowed for me to spiritually reflect and it taught me self-discipline. There’s no better way to understand anyone than to walk a mile in their shoes. It impacted my view tremendously and fostered a deeper understanding of the Muslims faith because I now know the challenges that Muslims face during this time, and it garnered my admirations and my respect.

6. What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
Despite having many offers on the table after I had finished my placement here at WEST, what really motivated me to become as involved as I am with WEST was that naturally speaking, I’m intrinsically motivated to help people on a day-to-day basis. I’ve been in the corporate world, as well as in the Trades. It’s interesting to see how things are either made or how to maximum revenue in the corporate world. However, just knowing that what I’m doing is for a great cause and for a great company really satisfies my soul. I’m very fortunate and blessed to be able to help in the capacity that I can.

7. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
One significant insight that I would like to share with others is how hard all our staff works. Everyone is aligned with WEST’s mission in being leaders in positioning women for success. It’s very motivational and inspiring to witness.

8. What advice do you have for people who want to do more for women’s empowerment?
Fostering inclusivity in the workplace no matter the industry. Amplifying Women’s voices, supporting women in leadership and supporting Women-owned Businesses!

1. Tell us about yourself.
   My mom and I moved to Windsor when I was a year old to be closer to family. I attended the University of Windsor, where I earned my B.A. and B.Ed. After graduation, I moved to New York City and worked as an elementary school teacher in the Bronx. I returned to Windsor after three years and have since been working in education and social services. I love traveling and spending time with family. When I have free time, I enjoy learning new crafts or baking.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   To me, WEST means opportunity through education, training, and support. It empowers women to pursue their dreams, build careers, and achieve financial stability. With a wide range of programs available, WEST opens doors to numerous possibilities for women to grow and succeed.
3. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
   What sets WEST apart is our relentless drive to do more. We were offering Women in Skilled Trades pre-apprenticeship programs when this was unheard of in Windsor-Essex County—and we didn’t stop there. We are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to break down gender barriers. We’ve accomplished so much, and I know there’s still so much more we can achieve.
4. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
   My advice for women is to go for it! Don’t hold yourself back. Pursue your dreams, and don’t let setbacks stop you. It’s not always easy, but every bump in the road will make you stronger, and in the end, it will all be worth it.
5. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
   My mom has always been an inspiration to me. Growing up in a single-parent household, we didn’t have much money, but that didn’t matter—I had unconditional love and support. My mom taught me the value of hard work, education, and the importance of an unwavering support system. I watched her persevere, even through the toughest times. I try to instill these life lessons in my daughter, and I draw on them to support the participants at WEST who come seeking opportunities to fulfill their dreams and ambitions.
6. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
   I have been honored to witness many WEST participants on their journeys through training and employment, and each story reaffirms that dreams truly can come true. Seeing women come to WEST with goals, aspirations, and sometimes uncertainties, and then watching them gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed, is deeply inspiring. Their journeys demonstrate the transformative power of support, guidance, and unwavering dedication to one’s goals. It’s a reminder of how much can be achieved when you have the right resources and people who believe in you. Through each success, I am reminded of the vital role WEST plays in helping women not only envision their dreams but make them a reality.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   I’m Christine Mitchell, President & CEO of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation. My career is centered around creating impactful change in healthcare philanthropy, with a focus on innovative fundraising and building strong community relationships. I love engaging with people and crafting strategies to ensure rural communities have access to exceptional healthcare. Outside of work, I’m a huge fan of vampire novels—there’s something fascinating about the mix of intrigue and immortality. I also enjoy playing pickleball, which helps me stay active and unwind.When it comes to food, I can’t get enough of Mezzo Ristorante in Windsor—it’s my favorite spot for its ambiance and incredible Italian cuisine. Fun fact: my colleagues often joke about my ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while still making time for my family, friends, and hobbies. For me, leadership is about fostering a team environment where everyone feels empowered, and I’m proud of the incredible people I work with every day.
2. What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
   My motivation to become involved with WEST stems from a deep belief in the power of education and community support to change lives. I’ve always been inspired by organizations that create opportunities for individuals to succeed, especially for women who face barriers in their personal and professional journeys. WEST’s mission to empower women through skill development, mentorship, and access to resources aligns with my values and passion for fostering equity and inclusion. Seeing how WEST helps women build confidence, gain independence, and achieve their goals motivated me to contribute to this vital work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an organization that uplifts women and strengthens our community.
3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
   My motivation to become involved with WEST stems from a deep belief in the power of education and community support to change lives. I’ve always been inspired by organizations that create opportunities for individuals to succeed, especially for women who face barriers in their personal and professional journeys. WEST’s mission to empower women through skill development, mentorship, and access to resources aligns with my values and passion for fostering equity and inclusion. Seeing how WEST helps women build confidence, gain independence, and achieve their goals motivated me to contribute to this vital work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an organization that uplifts women and strengthens our community.
4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
   What truly distinguishes WEST is its focus on building a community where women can connect, share experiences, and support one another. The organization’s emphasis on fostering confidence and leadership ensures that participants not only gain employment skills but also the tools to advocate for themselves and thrive in every aspect of their lives. This blend of practical training and emotional support creates a transformative experience for the women it serves, ultimately helping them contribute meaningfully to society and break down barriers to equity.
5. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
   My advice? Dream big, and don’t apologize for it! But here’s the secret: dreams are like plants—you need to water them with hard work, patience, and a little bit of humor when things don’t go as planned. Surround yourself with people who cheer for you and challenge you. Learn to laugh at setbacks and keep going. Remember, you’re the author of your own story, so write it boldly, and never be afraid to edit along the way. Most importantly, celebrate every win, no matter how small—it’s those little victories that pave the way to big ones!
6. What empowers you?
   Simple—seeing others light up when they realize their own potential! I get a huge boost from collaborating with passionate people who believe in making things happen. Whether it’s watching someone transform their life through WEST or working alongside my team to drive change in healthcare, the magic happens when we all come together with a common goal. I thrive on making things better, breaking barriers, and having a good laugh along the way. The energy of a community striving for something bigger is what really powers me up!
7. Describe a significant barrier or challenge you’ve faced due to your identity or background. How did you overcome it?
   Well, let’s be real — being a woman in a leadership role in healthcare and philanthropy hasn’t always been a walk in the park. I’ve definitely encountered moments where people might not have expected me to be in the position I’m in now, but here’s the thing: I’ve always believed in shaking up expectations.Honestly, I turn challenges into motivation. I’ve leaned into my strengths — connecting with people, being a lifelong learner, and finding creative solutions to problems. The work we do at CKHA Foundation is all about making an impact together, so it’s been a team effort every step of the way.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   I am going into my second year of Honours Biomedical Sciences at the University of Windsor with the hopes of pursuing a career as a doctor or dentist. On campus, I am involved in several clubs including Doctors Without Borders and Youreka. Off campus, I enjoy volunteering through various organizations such as at Windsor Regional Hospital and WEST. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   WEST is an organization that means a lot to me. I participated in the SEAT Program from 2021 to 2022 where I was able to gain lots of knowledge and valuable skills from my peers and mentors. It taught me a lot about my local community, including the daily challenges that many individuals face on a daily basis. WEST helped open my eyes to the many hardships that exist within the Windsor-Essex community and what steps should be taken to help combat such issues.
3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
   I was motivated to get involved with WEST as I was passionate about making a difference in my community while also wanting to increase my knowledge of STEAM related careers. As a group, we were able to propose a solution to the transportation problems present in the Windsor-Essex area. Through this, I was able to refine my research and collaboration skills which helped me tremendously during my first year of university. The SEAT Program also provided participants with further volunteer opportunities including making cards for senior citizens. Participating in the SEAT Program played a major role in helping me obtain scholarships and other positions.
4. In your experience, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
   WEST helps enlighten women on the numerous career pathways and opportunities that are available to them. From the SEAT Program which educated young women on careers in STEAM related fields to the Women in Skilled Trades Program, WEST covers a multitude of opportunities. More importantly, WEST provides women with the knowledge and expertise they need to excel at the career of their choice.
5. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
   There are several women in my life who inspire me, one of those being my mom. She is one of the most hard-working people I know and has instilled the concept of diligence in me from a very young age. She always reminds me that through hard and honest work, you can accomplish anything. She has always been my greatest motivator and cheerleader and inspires me to always do my best. She is one of the best people I know and I truly believe that surrounding yourself with strong, hard-working women is key to achieving your dreams.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   Hi! I’m Tess Ogunjinmi, a second-year nursing student at the University of Windsor. As a future nurse, I’m deeply passionate about advocating for quality healthcare for all, regardless of race, sexuality, or social status. Specifically, I’m dedicated to addressing the reproductive health needs of women of color. Beyond my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy reading, playing badminton, and indulging in messy reality TV shows—particularly the Real Housewives series. I have a habit of adding items to my cart, though I rarely follow through with the purchases. Food is my love language; wherever there’s food, that’s where I am at. But nothing beats my mom’s Nigerian home-cooked meals.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   To me, WEST represents a vibrant community of support, empowerment, and growth. During high school, through the SEAT program, I was able to explore my interests in science, engineering, art, and technology while being surrounded by inspiring mentors and peers. WEST provided different avenues for creativity, such as photography classes, painting classes, pottery workshops, and more. These experiences gave me the tools, confidence, and encouragement needed to pursue my passions and develop valuable skills. Although I have completed the program, I always know that if I ever need help, WEST is always there, ready to support me in my journey.
3. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you have gained that you would like to share with others?
   Reflecting on my WEST journey, I’ve learned the vital lesson of lateral networking. Staying in touch with fellow SEAT program participants has shown me the power of collaborative communities. These connections extend beyond the program, offering ongoing support, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration. Embracing lateral networking not only enriches personal growth but also strengthens the entire community. It’s a reminder that our journey doesn’t end with the program; it’s about fostering lasting connections that continue to empower and uplift us.
4. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
   My mother has been my greatest inspiration. She moved to Canada with determination and courage, leaving behind everything she knew to provide a better life for our family. Despite facing numerous challenges, she never wavered in her dedication to ensuring our well-being and happiness. Her resilience, strength, and unwavering love continue to inspire me every day. She taught me the importance of perseverance, kindness, and compassion, shaping the person I am today. Her sacrifices and unwavering support remind me of the power of love and determination in overcoming any obstacle.
5. What empowers you?
   What empowers me is knowing that I have the support of communities like WEST. The experiences and connections I’ve gained through programs like SEAT have instilled in me a sense of confidence and resilience. Being surrounded by mentors, peers, and resources that encourage growth and innovation fuels my determination to pursue my passions and overcome challenges. Additionally, the knowledge that I can make a difference, both within my community and beyond, empowers me to strive for excellence and create positive change. Ultimately, it’s the belief in myself and the support of those around me that empowers me to reach for the stars.

1. Tell us about yourself.
   I hold a CFRE designation in fundraising and am passionate about the community, politics and civic involvement.
2. What does WEST mean to you?
   Being a part of the WEST BOD is a great honour. We provide life changing services to the women we serve. It’s a privilege to serve on the board.
3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
   I came to the office to drop off some gently used suits and met Rose. She gave me a tour and told me she was looking for volunteers, and suggested the board of directors. It’s been home away from home ever since.
4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
   We are the only government funded agency dedicated to positioning women for success. We demonstrated our commitment to the community through our partnerships and bringing excellence in all we do. We’ve mentored small start-up organizations and have been at the forefront of programs that change lives, through education and training.
5. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
   Keep going, you can achieve your goals through hard work. WEST will be there to see you through. Yes, there might be set backs, but press onward.