Movement & Meditation Monday's: Meaningful Movement & Affirmation with Kahmaria
2023-01-16 08:30 - 09:30 UTC

Keeping Up with Inflation: Persevering Through Economic Uncertainty Workshop Series
2023-01-20 17:00 - 18:00
Inflation can create economic uncertainty even with people who are in a good financial position, worry about the future. Ips and downs are a normal part of the economic cycle but we are living in unpredictable times. If you’re having money problems right now – or are facing significant financial uncertainty over the few coming months – it’s important to understand that you are not alone. Whether you’ve had to shut down your business, been made redundant from your job or have been placed on leave, dealing with such a sudden reduction in income is incredibly stressful.

Join us on January 20 at 5 PM at CWCLN Director Davene Sterling-Wisdom takes us through the things to do now to protect your money during high inflation.

These workshops will be available to watch for replay on our Facebook.

Movement & Meditation Monday's: Finding the Calm in the Chaos with Jas Bhandal
2023-01-23 13:00 - 14:00

Preparing for a Recession: Persevering Through Economic Uncertainty Workshop Series
2023-01-27 17:00 - 18:00
During periods of recession, companies make fewer sales and economic growth stalls or becomes nonexistent. To cut rising costs, organizations may be forced to lay off large portions of their staff, resulting in widespread unemployment. At the same time, hiring slows down, making it difficult for the newly unemployed to find another job. Preparing for a recession is essential to your financial security. Knowing how it affects the economy and your finances and taking key steps will help you during an economic downturn. While you can’t control the timing of a recovery, you can be proactive when it comes to looking after your financial well-being.

Join us on January 27 at 5 PM at CWCLN Director Davene Sterling-Wisdom and guest speaker Carmelle Pelissier discuss and share tips and tools that could help your finances during a recession.

These workshops will be available to watch for replay on our Facebook.

Speaker Series Conversation: Journey from a Scientist to an Author
2023-01-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Online event
Our Speaker Series conversations are back! Ericka Ush, the host of these epic conversations kicks off 2023 with an amazing guest author, Kumudini Nicholas.

Movement & Meditation Monday's: Move & Groove with Reequal
2023-01-30 13:00 - 14:00

Coping with Income Loss: Persevering Through Economic Uncertainty Workshop Series
2023-02-03 17:00 - 18:00
Sometimes, the unexpected happens. Situations change and become precarious. And in the current climate, there are lots of reasons for that sudden loss of income, no matter if you have been laid off, had your work hours reduced, took a pay cut, retired, went on family medical leave or became a single parent household, the results are the same: income loss. With so many things looking uncertain, there are things you can do to deal with a sudden loss of income. How you respond to the income changes financially, emotionally and socially, can make a difference for you and your families long-term financial security. Beyond saving up for an emergency fund, you’ll need to make a few key moves while you stay afloat.

Join us on February 3 at 5 PM with our CWCLN Directors! Davene Sterling-Wisdom and Ericka Ush will be joining forces to discuss concrete tools and tips to help you through difficult times like job/income loss.

These workshops will be available to watch for replay on our Facebook.

Revolutionaries & Resistance Movements: Black History Month Event
2023-02-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Online event
Black History is a time to celebrate the achievements of civil rights movements, innovative trailblazers, and beauty in our diverse cultural expressions. The history of Black Canadians is an particularly diverse one – from the story of Black Canadians in Africville, to the wave of African & Caribbean migrants that arrived in Canada over the course of the 60s and 80s, and now at present day – the history of revolution and resistance is a recurring theme that is prevalent amongst Black communities. This Black History Month not only are we taking a moment to explore our past, but we are also taking the time to celebrate the work of contemporary Black scholars, activists, and leaders from our local communities.
Dilaye Desta will be moderating this discussion & will go through a series of questions that highlight our panelists & views and the passion behind their work. We will hear about the historical context of resistance movements in Canada and how their work ties into community activism and revolution in contemporary society. We will discuss what barriers are faced whether it be within our communities or due to the lack of support given to our communities and initiatives. Then the conversation will transition into highlighting the work of current local Anti-Black racism initiatives and ways we can support the community and these initiatives.
There will be a brief Question and Answer period at the end and an opportunity to share educational resources for those who want to learn more, get involved, and challenge everyone to do their part to ensure the change we all want to see.

Register using the link below

Speaker Series Conversation: Commanding Influence
2023-02-23 12:00 - 13:30
We are back with another fabulous Speaker Series Conversation!
Host Ericka Ush and guest Sandy Esprit will be live right here on IG at 12pm
Ericka and Sandy will discuss the importance of representation in the media and online influencer space.
Don’t miss out on this conversation happening February 23rd, 2023 12pm
About Sandy Esprit:
Sandy is a Canadian lifestyle digital content creator born in Montreal, Quebec. Her parents were both born in Haiti. She moved around in her youth, living in both Canada and the United States. Her experiences during her formative years inspired her to create a digital space where she could speak on her experiences in order to encourage others to show up as the best version of themselves.
Within the last few years Sandy has successfully built a social media platform where she advocates for representation in all spaces.
She attended the University of Ottawa and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science with a Major in Biochemistry and a minor in music. She now resides in Ottawa with her husband and three daughters.
Watch the REPLAY HERE

Microagressions & Mental Health Workshop
2023-03-01 18:00 - 19:30
Once again this year CWCLN will be participating in Ottawa’s Black Mental Health Week.
Each year the Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition highlights the programs, services and issues that impact Ottawa’s African, Caribbean and Black community
** swipe to view OBMHC details**
(check out OBMHC website www.obmhc.ca)
This year’s theme is ‘Exploring Stigma and Black Mental Health’
CWCLN’s first event during the week of festivities will be a virtual discussion ‘Microaggression and Mental Health’
The Microaggressions Workshop will focus on the impacts of microaggressions on the mental health of African, Caribbean and Black individuals. This presentation will also touch on the importance of self-care as well as how to address microaggressions in the workplace. Finally, resources will be shared pertaining to therapy and support groups.
Presenters:
Zoé Jammes & Celtie Coats
Zoé & Celtie are both uOttawa Students currently in the Social Work Program
Don’t miss this discussion March 1st at 6pm (EST)
Watch the REPLAY HERE

Addressing Systems, Exploring Impacts and Embracing Equity (International Women's Day 2023)
2023-03-08 17:00 - 18:30
Equity promotes justice, fairness and impartiality within the processes, procedures, and distribution of resources by systems or institutions. To tackle equity, people need to understand the root causes of outcome disparities in society. Equity aims to ensure fair treatment, access, equality of opportunity and advancement for everyone while also attempting to identify and remove the barriers that have prevented some groups from fully participating.
Learn how we can all #EmbraceEquity. It’s not just something we say, write about, or think about, it is something we must EMBRACE. Each one of us can actively support gender equity within our own sphere of influence by challenging gender stereotypes, calling out discrimination, drawing attention to bias, and seeking out inclusion. Collective activism is what drives change and allies are incredibly important for the social, economic, cultural, and political advancement of women.
Join our webinar panel to discuss how individuals, community and organizations can contribute to these efforts. Join us to gain understanding of how we can all work together, become more confident to express ourselves, and allow everyone to be included.
Date: March 8th, 2023
Time: 5pm (EST)
Location: Zoom/Facebook
Participants who register will receive a zoom link

Registration Link https://www.eventbrite.com/e/addressing-systems-exploring-impacts-and-embracing-equity-iwd-tickets-558327922847?keep_tld=1

Speaker Series Conversation: Shining a Light on Mental Health
2023-04-04 08:00 - 17:00
Ericka Ush will be joined by online influential digital creator and founder of @the_lotus_movement , Meenakshi Sharma to chat about mental health and wellbeing in BIPOC communities.
These important conversations help to break down the barriers of stigma, shame and harm.
Let’s come together and join in the dialogue to uplift, empower and create a space of well-being
Don’t miss the conversation starting at 7pm (EST)
About @meenakshi.sharma.co
Meenakshi Sharma is a South Asian mom to two little girls, a Digital Content Creator, Founder of The Lotus Movement (nonprofit mental health organization) and Host/Producer on Rukus Avenue Radio. She speaks openly about motherhood and the challenges around balancing work and life, the importance of community, and mental health. She is an advocate for women empowerment and is seen as a genuine community builder, visionary, and supporter.
Watch the REPLAY HERE

Black Maternal Health & Reproductive Justice Month: A Day In the Life of a Black Doula
2023-04-11 16:00 - 17:00
We kick off our series of conversations for Black Maternal Health & Reproductive Justice Month with Danielle James(@daniellejames1616) a former Dona and certified doula.
–>>Danielle’s bio<<–
We’ll be discussing everything about what the career path is to becoming a doula, the experiences one goes through as a Black doula, what it is like to witness medical racism, how advocacy and system change in the space is necessary, the need for race based data in Black Maternal health and much more
Watch the recap on IGTV
A tremendous thank you to SEOCHC for their support of this series!

Black Maternal Health & Reproductive Justice Month: Anti-Racist Sex-Ed
2023-04-19 18:00 - 19:00
Just like any other area of healthcare, sexual and reproductive health has a long history of oppression and discrimination towards people of color. High quality health interventions must be aware of, and responsive to this history in order to be effective. Good sex ed has the power to be transformative. Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) should people about power and privilege, and equity in relationships. CSE equips us for the real world. It addresses inequity and injustice. Responsive, honest and inclusive sex ed must also be anti-racist. In this presentation you’ll learn about the history of racism sexual and reproductive health, discuss contemporary concerns, and help imagine a future that is free from medical marginalization.
Watch the recap of the event here

Black Maternal Health & Reproductive Justice Month: In Pursuit of Reproductive Justice Panel
2023-04-26 18:00 - 19:30
This panel discussion focuses on the high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity among African, Caribbean & Black women in Canada, as well as the many systemic barriers and challenges they face in accessing healthcare and mental health support.
The panelists will also discuss the importance of reproductive justice, including its history, the need for comprehensive sexual health education and access to safe, affordable, and accessible reproductive healthcare services. With this discussion we will further highlight the urgent need to address the systemic injustices and inequalities that impact Black maternal health in Canada, and the importance of centering the experiences and voices of African, Caribbean & Black mothers in policy and programming efforts.
The event will conclude with a Q&A session, where audience members will have the opportunity to ask the panelists questions and engage in further discussion.
Moderating the discussion is CWCLN Wellness Director Jacklyn St Laurent with guest speakers Karine Coen-Sanchez, Delilah Kamuhanda and Natalya Mason

Watch the recap here

Speaker Series Conversation - Making A Statement With Plant-Based Fashion
2023-04-27 12:00 - 13:00

Burnout, Systemic Oppression and Ancestral Healing
2023-05-16 12:00 - 13:00

Connecting with Authenticity and Purpose
2023-05-31 17:00 - 18:00

WOMEN'S HEALTH COLLECTIVE INITIATIVE "Let's Talk About It Series" - BIPOC Women's Preventative Health
2023-06-10 10:00 - 11:00

Arise Firebird- Fighting against toxic workplace environments for Black and racialized women
2023-06-27 12:00 - 13:00

Overlooked and Underserved - Black Trans Inclusion in the City of Ottawa
2023-06-29 12:00 - 13:00

CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS - INTERSECTIONS (free 8 week program)
2023-09-16 - 2023-11-04 | Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON, K1S 4G4, Canada
Our groundbreaking program Creative Expressions is back! This iteration “Intersections” is tailored for Black and racialized women and femmes. Our workshop celebrates our ancestral heritage as a wellspring of inspiration for personal growth and communal empowerment. By delving into creative expressions inspired by our roots, such as the dynamic Jam Board, the elemental journey of mood exploration through the Five Elements, the performing art form of Body Movement, evocative Blackout Poetry, and more we will embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation.
This initiative is a dual voyage of healing and transformation. By sharing our experiences and stories, we offer support to one another, nurturing healing processes and fortifying inner strength. As we reconnect with our roots, we empower ourselves, embracing the wisdom of those who came before us as a guiding force in our journey of self-exploration.
Join us in this transformative endeavor, where heritage and creativity converge to foster resilience, empowerment, and solidarity. As we embrace our past, we illuminate a path to a brighter, more empowered future for ourselves and the communities we hold dear.

Program Dates & Times
Saturday September 16th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday September 23rd, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday September 30th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday October 7th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday October 14th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday October 21st, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Saturday October 28th, 2023 11am to 1pm
Saturday November 4th, 2023 11am to 1pm

Location
Rideau Hub – 815 St .Laurent Blvd, Suite 235 (Accessible building : eleveators down the left hallway)
Parking info: On the left hand side of the building (accessible parking in the front of the building)
Bus info: From downtown Ottawa ( 7 St. Laurent ) From St. Laurent shopping centre ( 7 Carleton)

For more information: info@canadianwomenofcolour.ca

SIGN UP HERE

Speaker Series Conversation - The Map of Every Great Relationship
2023-09-19 10:00 - 11:00
LINK TO VIDEO

Pre -Screening: ARISE FIREBIRD: Transcending Workplace Trauma & Finding Joy”
2023-10-11 07:00 - 2023-10-16 19:00
EXCITING NEWS…..
Canadian Women of Colour Leadership Network & the African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre ARE JOINING TOGETHER TO HOST A VIRTUAL SCREENING OF ARISE FIREBIRD…
Did you know Only 17% of Black Women feel included in
their workplace that is according to, the Women’s Leadership Resource Centre, University of Chicago?
The new documentary “ARISE FIREBIRD: Transcending Workplace Trauma & Finding Joy”
The film is a journey through the lives of women who exit the corporate world: It is not only about overcoming pain but also finding joy in life and inspiring others.
The virtual pre-screening of the film will be available from October 11th to October 16th *register at the link : TICKETS
Following the pre-screening there will be a live discussion with the filmmaker Jimi Okubanjo on October 18th, 12pm(EST)
FAQ’s
Q: How long will the documentary be available online for pre-screening?
A: The film will be available from October 11th at 7am(EST) until October 16th at 7pm(EST)
Q: On October 18th will the discussion with the filmmaker be online or in-person?
A: The discussion will be in person
Participants can join in person at the ACB Wellness Resource Centre at 12pm(EST) Location 610 Donald Street
Q: If I cannot make it to the in-person discussion can we join online?
A: Yes.
Those who cannot make it to the in-person discussion on October 18th can email the hosts to get the Zoom link
Email: info@canadianwomenofcolour.ca

EmpowerHer - (Free 4 week program)
2023-11-25 11:00 - 2023-12-16 13:00 | Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON, K1S 4G4, Canada
Join us for a transformative and empowering workshop designed exclusively for African, Caribbean, Black, racialized women and femmes- EmpowerHer: Celebrating Our Essence. This immersive and supportive gathering is dedicated to honouring our bodies, embracing our sexuality, and fostering a safe and nurturing space to engage in candid conversations about the unique challenges that ACB (African, Caribbean, Black) racialized women and femmes face when navigating the world in their bodies. Let’s explore the meaning of sexuality through a racial lens.
Creating a Safe Space: EmpowerHer is a haven where trust, respect, and empathy are paramount. We encourage open and honest dialogues about the challenges we encounter daily while navigating the world in our bodies. Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, fears, shame, and triumphs without fear of judgment.
Empowerment Workshops: EmpowerHer offers empowering workshops and exercises that aim to boost self-confidence, self-awareness, and self-expression. We will explore avenues for personal growth and empowerment, equipping participants with tools to navigate their journeys with strength and grace.
EmpowerHer: Celebrating Our Essence is not just a workshop; it’s a lifestyle. We invite you to join us on this empowering journey of self-discovery, self-love, and self-empowerment. Together, we will embrace our unique identities, overcome challenges, and celebrate the strength and resilience that define Black and racialized women and femmes. Let’s rise, thrive, and empower each other!
PROGRAM DATES
November 25th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
December 2nd, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
Decmber 9th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm
December 16th, 2023 – 11am to 1pm

LOCATION
Rideau Hub – 815 St .Laurent Blvd, Suite 220 (Accessible building : eleveators down the left hallway)
Parking info: On the left hand side of the building (accessible parking in the front of the building)
Bus info: From downtown Ottawa ( 7 St. Laurent ) From St. Laurent shopping centre ( 7 Carleton)

SIGN UP HERE

Black Peer Support Training
2023-12-05 13:00 - 2023-12-14 17:00
REGISTER TODAY for free Black peer support training!
Black communities in Canada face many barriers to mental health care. In order to heal, Black individuals need to be heard, understood, and respected. Healing in community is key.
This peer support facilitation training is available to adults over 18 who identify as Black and live in the Ottawa area.
Developed and taught by Black trainers, this course will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to facilitate diverse peer support groups and to provide emotional and practical support to people who are facing challenges related to mental health, racism, discrimination, and more.
• Support your fellow community members in an important and meaningful way.
• Learn new skills.
• Increase sense of belonging and connectedness.
• Destigmatize mental illness in the community.
• Increase Black mental health support for Black individuals and intersecting identities.
• Gain valuable experience in peer support facilitation through an EDI lens.

Date and Time
The training consists of six online afternoon sessions from 1 p.m.– 5 p.m. (EST)
December 5, 6, 7
December 12, 13, 14
Participants who have completed the training will receive an honorarium of $100, certificate of completion, and have an opportunity to join a peer support network.
Spaces are limited.
For more information, or to register
Please reach out to info@canadianwomenofcolour.ca or call 613-204-4846

This initiative is a collaboration of Canadian Women of Colour Leadership Network and The Royal.

In Our Mothers Garden - Documentary & Discussion
2024-03-07 17:30 - 21:00 | Royal Mental Health Centre, 1145 Carling Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
This event is a collaboration hosted by Canadian Women of Colour Leadership Network, Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition, and Somerset West Community Health Centre…
Join us on March 7th, 2024 from 5:30pm to 9pm for this special event exclusively for Black Women celebrating Black Mental Health Week and International Women’s Day (IWD), themed #InspireInclusion.
Based on the Netflix documentary In Our Mother’s Gardens. In Our Mothers’ Gardens celebrates the strength and resiliency of Black women and Black families through the complex, and oftentimes humorous, relationships between women across generations. We’ll be planting seeds by featuring short clips from the series to spark reflection and discussion. We’ll hear from Black women from across the globe share stories of their mothers to redefine holistic lives rooted in radical self-care and healing.
The event is taking place in-person at the Royal Ottawa Health Centre
**Please note this event is open exclusively to Black Women and Femmes**
REGISTER TO ATTEND AT THE LINK : https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/in-our-mothers-garden-documentary-discussion-tickets-807396634067?aff=eemailordconf&ref=eemailordconf&utm_campaign=order-confirm-bcc&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eventbrite&utm_term=viewevent

(the event is made possible with the support of the ROH’s Women’s Mental Health Program)

BIWOC Drop -In Series
2024-03-23 11:00 - 13:30 | Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON, K1S 4G4, Canada
We invite you to join Canadian Women of Colour Leadership Network’s first drop-in session of 2024, which will focus on celebrating and reflecting on International Women’s Day! This is the beginning of our monthly drop-in series exclusively for BIWOC, Femmes and newcomer Women. Throughout this series, we will use the arts, movement, and self-reflection activities to empower our participants and connect them with their community members in a compassionate space.
For this upcoming session on March 23rd, participants can choose between writing thank-you cards for inspiring women in their lives or diving into works written by female poets. Participants will also have the chance to discuss what womanhood means to them and how they navigate the beauty and challenges of their identities. Come and celebrate International Women’s Day at this enriching session!
Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScSgWGu8cirg4bQREKmqNEOP6sQ3eOK_9n4fLHqv1DdFHBNCw/viewform
Date: March 23rd, 2024
Location: 815 St. Laurent BLVD, Suite 220
Time: 11 am-1 pm (EST)
Rideau Hub – 815 St .Laurent Blvd, Suite 220 (Accessible building : eleveators down the left hallway)
Parking info: On the left hand side of the building (accessible parking in the front of the building)
Bus info: From downtown Ottawa ( 7 St. Laurent ) From St. Laurent shopping centre ( 7 Carleton)

*Limited Spaces*

Please note these workshops are subject to changes in scheduling.

Drop-In Series is exclusively for Black, Indigenous Women of Colour (BIWOC), Femmes, and Newcomers who identify as part of the BIPOC community.

April - BIWOC Drop In
2024-04-20 11:00 - 13:00 | Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON, K1S 4G4, Canada
Join us for a soul-nourishing drop-in session in honour of Black Maternal Health Month! All Black & racialized women and femmes and especially mothers, guardians and caregivers are invited to participate in a session that aims to provide support, reflection and rejuvenation.
We’re thrilled to welcome our special guest speaker, Danielle, a doula with a wealth of knowledge and compassion. Danielle will graciously share her expertise and tips relating to the intricate journey of birthing, motherhood, parenting, and caregiving. Following this, participants will have the opportunity to create a milestone map, which involves mapping either the milestones of their children or their own personal milestones.
It’s a chance to recognize our successes, the challenges we’ve conquered and the growth we’ve experienced along the way. Finally, we will wrap up by participating in a mindful breathing exercise alongside gentle yoga poses to release tension in our bodies and minds and engage in necessary self-care.
REGISTRATION: https://forms.gle/a3ZL9JwFnziZY9kMA
Date: April 20th, 2024
Location: 815 St. Laurent BLVD, Suite 220
Time: 11 am-1 pm (EST)
Rideau Hub – 815 St .Laurent Blvd, Suite 220 (Accessible building : eleveators down the left hallway)
Parking info: On the left hand side of the building (accessible parking in the front of the building)
Bus info: From downtown Ottawa ( 7 St. Laurent ) From St. Laurent shopping centre ( 7 Carleton)

*Limited Spaces*

Please note these workshops are subject to changes in scheduling.

Drop-In Series is exclusively for Black, Indigenous Women of Colour (BIWOC), Femmes, and Newcomers who identify as part of the BIPOC community.

Equity and Economic Empowerment
2024-04-27 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an enlightening online discussion! Our Equity and Economic Empowerment webinar will delve into the economic aspects of becoming a doula, highlighting the essential social networks needed to establish your business, and providing invaluable training and mentoring support. We’ll also shed light on the pivotal role doulas play in supporting maternal health.
Additionally, we’ll explore the realm of mompreneurship, uncovering the opportunities and empowerment offered by training and accelerator programs to propel your career forward.
Our discussion will also touch on advocating for equity-driven approaches to economic empowerment. Join us as we embark on this journey to ignite success among mompreneurs through equitable support, empowering you to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
Our esteemed guests for the webinar include Danielle James, a former DONA-certified birth and postpartum doula, and the co-founders of MumsFirst, Ngozi Eme, and Udeme Lawrence.
Don’t miss out! Mark your calendars for April 27th at 12pm EST and join us via Zoom:
Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqf-GqrTgvG9GpwETBQPGY5-JG4pm4sKfQ
*please note this event will be streamed via Facebook*
