August 2023

In this issue:

iSisters Welcomes new ED | iWisdom Pilot Launch | Learner Advisory Council

| Laptop Donation | Returning Partner | Meet Aylin Sel Gul

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.

iSisters Welcomes New ED

Photo of Karyn Steer, newly appointed iSisters Executive Director. She is wearing a black dress and is against a blue background.

iSisters is pleased to welcome Karyn Steer as the incoming Executive Director, replacing Ann McSweeney, who will retire on September 30. Karyn was most recently Chief Resource Development Officer at the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO), an iSisters partner. Read the full announcement here.

And, make plans to join us on October 17 at 7:00 p.m. when we’ll say goodbye to Ann and celebrate her more than 35 years as an advocate for women in need in our community!

iWisdom Pilot Launch

An older female learner with glasses working at a laptop with the female instructor looking on.

On July 10, we were thrilled to launch the pilot for iSisters' new program iWisdom in conjunction with our partner Nepean Rideau Osgoode Community Resource Centre (NROCRC). iWisdom empowers older adults with essential computer skills and employment supports to unlock opportunities in today's digital world.

Here are just a few of the positive comments from learners:

A group of older female learners in a classroom with the instructor at the front.

Four older female learners working on laptops in a classrooom as one looks to another and smiles.

“I have to say that the growth mindset [taught by instructor Leïla] has changed my way of thinking. It has me thinking well maybe I can try that…maybe I can do it. It changed my thinking, so I am willing to try more things. I am applying this to many things in my life.”

“I came for the Good Food Box Program and NRORC Staff recommended that I try this course. They followed up with me and made sure that I had all the information I needed. It is so good to have something like this to look forward to in my day. It is on my schedule, and I can do it.”

“Not only are we learning new skills to keep up with our grandkids, but I really enjoy the breaks to socialize with refreshments.”

A very special thanks to NROCRC for hosting the program, and to iSisters instructor Leïla for doing such a great job engaging the learners.

Learner Advisory Council

A group of ethnically diverse women of varying ages smiling to the camera.

We are excited to announce the upcoming iSisters Learner Advisory Council. This will be a unique opportunity for current and former iSisters learners to provide valuable feedback and guidance to enhance our programs and better serve our community. Stay tuned for updates!

Laptop Donation

We extend our sincerest gratitude to Greentec for facilitating the generous donation of 15 laptops from the University of Waterloo. These much-needed computers will be put to good use by iSisters learners and help us further our mission. Thank you!

Returning Partner

We would like to welcome back Lanark County Interval House as a returning partner and look forward to working with them once again!

“Since 1979, Lanark County Interval House and Community Support has been providing safe, emergency shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Over the years, our services have grown to include extensive community support programs including individual and group counselling, second stage housing, family court support and programs specific to children and youth. As we honour our 40th year of service, we celebrate the leadership of strong feminist advocates, the outstanding support of community and the

amazing demonstration of courage by women and children of Lanark County. We continue to do the work with gratitude, and our evolution remains rooted in the lived experience and the strong voices of women.”

- Erin Lee, Executive Director, Interval House and Community Support

Meet Aylin Sel Gul - Volunteer

Aylin has recently started as an iSisters volunteer and brings some very impressive credentials to her role.

Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Geological Engineering, Master of Science, and MBA and most recently, a Brand Management Post-Graduate Certificate (Honours List). An engineer by trade, she has built a successful life in Canada since departing Turkey with her family.

Aylin has already done some amazing work for us, particularly by delivering a comprehensive audit of the iSisters web site. Her excellent work will serve as a strong foundation for optimizing the iSisters site and digital presence.

Her analytical skills, dedication and commitment to the organization are extremely valued and inspiring. Thank you Aylin!

Photo of a young iSisters learner with her small children

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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