Stories, Support, Sisterhood
Women Owned Narratives mission includes sharing stories from local women, highlighting our journeys in the community.
“In Canada, Ruth found the freedom to express herself and participate in civic life, enjoying an improved quality of life
A Woman Shares Her Journey from East Africa to Canada
WON VP Ornela Thieba interviewed a Calgary woman originally from East Africa as part of the planning for Mosaic Nights. “I gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by East African immigrants,” said Ornela. “Her story reflects the struggles that many immigrants encounter, particularly the isolation experienced in various ways, regardless of background or stage of life. Despite her challenges, Ruth embodies resilience and a kindred spirit, serving as an inspiration to others.
“My mentor inspired me to embrace my true identity”
Tiffany Simon, Sage Graduate, 2023
Mentorship & Sisterhood
Throughout her journey, Tiffany Simon has been fortunate to have a mentor named Sarah Russell, the program coordinator of the Sage program. Sarah’s love and ability to see the world with clarity and wisdom inspired Tiffany to embrace her true identity and be proud of where she comes from. Sarah’s dedication to unveiling the truth and educating others has shown Tiffany that she too can make a difference.
“Mentors help open doors that are too heavy for us to open on our own”
Ward 1 Councillor, Sonya Sharp
Mentorship is a Game-Changer for Many
Mentorship is a game-changer for everyone, but especially for women in industries such as politics, construction or tech. Mentors provide guidance, share knowledge, offer emotional support, and help to open doors that are too heavy for us to open on our own. Having a mentor boots confidence, aids in skill development, provides access to resources, and is often times a friend that you can rely on for years to follow.
For me, I had the chance to mentor an adult student, who needed guidance on balancing work, school and raising a family. Not only was I a mentor, I learned so much from her as well. The mentor and mentee relationship grew into a long lasting friendship. Now we meet for coffee, share stories of our careers and catch up on how our children are growing up so fast!
Being a mentor is an honor and it comes with responsibility. For me, that responsibility meant sharing experiences, being patient, advocating for my mentee, and it meant personal growth. Mentorship empowers us to achieve our full potential, both for the mentor and the mentee by fostering personal and professional growth. We need to celebrate mentorship for a brighter future of collaboration, women supporting women, and positive change for our city. – Ward 1 Councillor, Sonya Sharp
“My hope is that all people are able to have a Mel in their life at some point – someone who can remind them of who they are, the strength they carry, and the ability they have to make the world just a little bit brighter.
Tori Romano, Business Development, Digital Media and Entertainment, Calgary Economic Development
Mentors Remind Us of Who We Are
I have had the great fortune of crossing paths with impactful mentors and strong women throughout my career. Supportive leaders, “hype” people, and supervisors willing to assist in my growth and give me space to learn.
One person in particular who has had a great impact on me, who has reminded me that I am stronger than I think in moments of difficulty, is my high school math teacher, Mel.
For the past 15 years, Mel and I have celebrated a fictitious holiday every February centred around believing in yourself, leaning on others for support, and acknowledging the strength from within to do the great things we are all capable of. This holiday was born out of a silly situation that held no real significance, but it has resulted in an annual tradition of self-care and a reminder to always be true to myself despite the opinions of others. Mel is one of the most thoughtful and selfless people I have ever met, and her divine optimism is a reflection of her unique ability to always seek out the positive in any difficult situation.
Beyond the accolades and accomplishments that are held so highly in the professional world, at the end of the day I believe who you are as a person should take priority. How do you show up on the day-to-day? How do you make a difference in your role, your office, your community? Do you hold integrity & support others around you to the best of your ability, despite your current situation? My hope is that all people are able to have a Mel in their life at some point – someone who can remind them of who they are, the strength they carry, and the ability they have to make the world just a little bit brighter.
Tori Romano, Business Development, Digital Media and Entertainment, Calgary Economic Development
Saturday, December 2
10:30am – 11:30am
Scarborough Community Hall
1737 14 Ave SW
Active Aging: Shedding Light on Dementia
Recreation Therapy for Dementia
This third session of four will introduce the role of recreation therapy in improving cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social engagement for individuals with dementia.
Saturday, December 9
10:30 – 11:30 am
Scarborough Community Hall
1737 14 Ave SW
Active Aging: Shedding Light on Dementia
Practical Activities and Tips
This session will demonstrate engaging and interactive recreational activities that can be easily implemented by care partners and community members.
