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July 2023 |
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In this issue: National Indigenous History Month | 2SLGBTQi+ Training | National AccessAbility Week PCL Construction Event | Youville Graduation Ceremony | iSisters Partner Testimonial | Meet Melanie Leach |
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Indigenous Land Acknowledgement |
Here at iSisters, we respectfully acknowledge that we work and live on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Anishinabe Nation. We commit ourselves to learn the truth and be active in the process of reconciliation. Ondaje iSisters, nidapiitenindaamin kikenindamang eji ondaamitaayaang ashidj abiyaang ondaje ega wiikaad kamiigiwaaniwang iyo kichi Anishinaabewakii. Niwaawiindamaagemin niinawind kidji-kikenindamang tebwewin ashidj kidji-kwayakijichigeyaang kabii-ijiwebag. |
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National Indigenous History Month |
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In recognition of National Indigenous History Month, iSisters was proud to attend some inspiring events at the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health. |
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| On June 14, iSisters' Program Manager, Erin, attended the Wabano-win ICS training. This was a true hands-on cultural experience, rooted in traditional Indigenous teachings. Through a mix of hard-hitting information, meaningful activities, warmth and humour, the trainers brought to life the concept of putting reconciliation into practice through reconciliACTION. |
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On June 22, Erin, and instructor Reham attended the Wabano Igniting the Spirit Gala. This year’s gala theme was Our Stories come from the Stones. It was a wonderful evening, with fantastic performances and good food, all for a great cause. |
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2SLGBTQi+ EDI Workshop |
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Thank you to Debbie Owusu-Akyeeah, Executive Director of The Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity, for the excellent 2SLGBTQOA+ EDI workshop provided to the entire iSisters Team on June 12. |
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National AccessAbility Week |
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In recognition of National AccessAbility Week from May 28 to June 3, iSisters was invited by our partner the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) to celebrate their launch in Ottawa.
It was a pleasure meeting professionals from a range of organizations, as well as hearing the esteemed panel speak about all the work that has been accomplished, and the challenges ahead. |
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PCL Construction Event |
 | Photo Credit: Wellington Imagery |
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It's been a busy month for Erin! On May 31, she attended an event hosted by PCL - Celebrating Women in Construction, where she delivered an introductory presentation about iSisters.
Many women from across the sector came together to share experiences, inspire each other, and bid on some fantastic silent auction items, with proceeds from the auction and ticket sales going to iSisters. A heartfelt thank you to PCL for making us your charity of choice! |
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Photo Credits: Wellington Imagery |
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Youville Graduation Ceremony |
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 | iSisters learner Shahed, with instructor & Arabic mentor Fadwa Tarawnah |
| We were so grateful to attend the graduation ceremonies at the Youville Centre on June 16. A dedicated iSisters partner, Youville provides education, life skills, and support to young mothers who are working towards a brighter future for themselves and their children.
Many of the graduates are iSisters learners, and we are honored to support these amazing young women in their educational journey. Hearing their stories of determination, resilience, and achievements was incredibly moving and awe-inspiring.
In attendance from iSIsters were Erin Keely-Messier and Board member (and former Youville Executive Director) Bev MacKillop.
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Partner Testimonial |
We recently received some very positive testimonials from our valuable partners we’d like to start sharing: |
“With support from iSisters, participants were empowered to learn new skills, build personal confidence, and explore an interest in technology. These programs provide a valuable opportunity for vulnerable women to connect, learn, and grow. Thank you, iSisters, for all that you do to support our community!”
Alia Reynolds, St. Joe’s Women’s Centre
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Meet Melanie Leach - Volunteer |
| Melanie joined our volunteer team in 2021. She was instrumental in obtaining donated articles for our 20th Anniversary Celebration and our recent Volunteer Appreciation. Melanie has also been a photographer during iSisters events and helps out wherever she can setting up for events with the iSisters team.
She has been an "office helper" for the Executive Director setting up files, documents, and other admin duties.
When Melanie is not volunteering she runs a standardbred training stable with her partner. They race their horses out of Rideau Carleton Raceway. She has loved horses since she was a young child and qualified for the World Equitation American Saddlebred Championships in St. Louis, MO as a teenager.
Thanks Melanie for your commitment to iSisters. |
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Did You Know… |
1.5 million women live in poverty in Canada
10% of women in Canada live on low incomes
23% of women with disabilities live on low incomes
Statistics Canada, 2019 |
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| Donate to iSisters As a non-profit organization, all of our funding goes into creating a safe, judgment-free learning environment for our students.
Your support helps make this possible. Consider a donation today! |
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Registered Charity Number: 874302714RR0001 |
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Quote of the Month |
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