Celebrating Diversity, Multiculturalism and Inclusion at the 2024 Inclusion Champions Awards Gala in Calgary
- ICC
- Feb 27, 2024
- 15 min read
On Saturday, February 24, 2024, the Calgary Petroleum Club turned into a lively celebration of diversity and inclusion during the highly anticipated annual Inclusion Champions Awards Gala. This prestigious event gathered leaders, advocates, and community members focused on promoting inclusivity and recognizing remarkable contributions to this essential cause.
The evening kicked off with guests arriving at 5:00 PM, greeted by an atmosphere full of excitement and anticipation. Conversations flowed about the importance of inclusion and the significant accomplishments of the award recipients.
By 5:30 PM, award recipients gathered for an orientation, preparing for their moment in the spotlight. This gathering was not merely about awards; it was a celebration of the hard work and commitment each individual demonstrated in fostering inclusivity within their respective fields.
As the clock struck 6:00 PM, the official welcome was announced, and the cocktail reception began. Guests mingled while savoring a selection of exquisite hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, mingling amidst a stunning display of African artifacts that showcased the rich cultural heritage being acknowledged that evening.
The program launched with a Land Acknowledgement delivered by Raechelle Faith, Director of Public Relations at ICC. This pivotal moment set a reflective tone for the evening, reminding everyone of the importance of recognizing the land and its original inhabitants. According to statistics, 20% of Canadians reported a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture after attending such events.
Following the Land Acknowledgement, Dr. Dele Ajele, Director of Governance at ICC, delivered opening remarks that prompted attendees to think about the role of inclusion in all areas of society. His message resonated, emphasizing that the journey toward inclusivity is ongoing and relies on collective effort from everyone involved.
The room buzzed with energy as the Afrohouse Dance Group, composed of talented members from the SAIT Black Community Student Dance Group, took the stage. Their lively performance captivated the audience, illustrating the beauty of cultural expression through dance, and highlighting the significance of cultural heritage in building inclusive communities.
At 7:15 PM, Eve Aboka, Executive Director of ICC, took the stage for the keynote address. Her compelling words underlined the significance of inclusive leadership and its transformative effect on communities. Eve’s enthusiasm was clear, leaving every attendee inspired to continue advocating for diversity and inclusion.
As the evening progressed, the Inclusive Leadership Awards were presented by Gelila Mast, Regional Manager of Black Community Business Development at TD Bank. Each recipient shared their story of overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals. The standing ovation that followed each speech was a testament to the community's admiration for these champions of inclusion. For instance, one recipient, Sarah Morrison, transformed her workplace into a model of inclusivity, increasing diverse hiring by 40% within two years.
Dinner was served from 8:15 PM to 9:15 PM, accompanied by a Workplace Equity Panel hosted by Moji Tawo, Executive Director of TMT Learning Foundation. Experts engaged in meaningful discussions about workplace equity, sharing effective strategies for fostering inclusive environments. They emphasized that organizations with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors.
The Inclusive Professional Awards segment, presented by Dennis Agbegha, Director of Partnerships at ICC, allowed each recipient to express gratitude and share insights from their journeys. Their stories added depth to the evening's narrative of resilience and commitment to inclusivity.
The gala recognized organizations making notable advancements in promoting inclusivity. The Inclusive Organizational Award was presented by Charles Osuji of Osuji & Smith Lawyers, highlighting the collective efforts of institutions prioritizing diversity and equity in their operations.
As the night wound down, attendees reflected on the inspiring stories shared throughout the evening. The gala was not just an event; it symbolized a movement, a call to action for everyone to persist in advocating for inclusivity in their communities.
The 2024 Inclusion Champions Awards Gala was an immense success, showcasing the outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations committed to promoting inclusivity. It served as a reminder that while progress has been made, much work still lies ahead. Here is the list of the incredible individuals and leaders making a difference in the inclusion space
Lifetime Inclusive Leadership Award Recipients
Dr. Linda Kongnetiman - Anti-Racism Manager - The City of Calgary
In her role at the city, she created the first City of Calgary Anti-Racism Program with over 18 staff from diverse racial backgrounds. She led the creation of The City of Calgary Anti-Racism Strategic Plan – Dismantling Systemic Racism, Transforming Lives and amplified Indigenization through community engagements led by a diverse Indigenous Elders Circle.
Inclusive Leadership Award Recipients
Shakira Bada -CEO - Kaimra Corp
As the CEO at Kaimra Corp, Shakira is the ultimate champion for inclusivity within the
workforce. She has spearheaded numerous initiatives including helping to build a just workforce for individuals and companies who oftentimes face systematic barriers by integrating diverse suppliers into the supply chain and making commitments to spending.
Sahana Parameswaran -Executive Director - Gateway Association
Sahana Parameswara (she/her, Treaty 6) is the Executive Director of Gateway Association -
Alberta. She has led an equity and antiracist journey that has permeated the work culture and has further enhanced the inclusive value system that Gateway as an organization and her colleagues already hold. Sahana is also a Peacemaking Circle Keeper and holds space for healing, community building and collective action.
Samantha Grabinsky - Senior Manager- (CERC) - Gateway Association
As the senior manager of the Calgary Employment Resource Centre at Gateway Association,
Samantha has been focused on building relationships with communities traditionally underserved by organizations that support people with disabilities and making everyone feel welcome at the CERC. Samantha is passionate about her work, which she views as building inclusive communities one job at a time.
Nova Stevens - Miss Universe Canada & Founder - Go SuperNova
Nova Stevens, the groundbreaking Miss Universe Canada 2020, holds a significant place in
history as the first Sudanese woman to win this prestigious title and grace the Miss Universe
stage. Nova Stevens has transcended the traditional boundaries of a beauty queen, using her platform to advocate for social change and youth empowerment. Her efforts in establishing Emancipation Day, organizing impactful marches, and celebrating BIPOC talent through the "Black Culture Celebration" festival demonstrate her commitment to advancing a more inclusive and equitable society. Through "Go SuperNova," she continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, encouraging them to reach their full potential in education and the arts.
Musap (Moose) Abdel - Founder & Executive Director - Struggle Is Your Success (SIYS)
Musap Abdel, known as Moose, currently leads the SIYS organization in Calgary. He is prioritizing diversity and inclusivity and creating an environment where every voice holds significance. Moose's profound commitment to creating a culture of diversity and inclusion is a trait of inclusive leadership that transcends barriers and actively empowers individuals from all walks of life.
Kingsley Madu - Founder & C.E.O - Expedier Global Money App
Kinglsey Madu is the founder and CEO of Expedier Global Money App, which is the first Canadian Black-led and BIPOC-focused Digital Finance App that is helping Immigrants to Canada establish their finances, build credit and flourish financially in Canada and beyond. Kingsley and his team are also building the first Black-Led, BIPOC-focused global digital solution that will enable new immigrants to access money faster without having to navigate the obstacles the current system puts on their path. This eventually furthers Immigrants Champions of Canada’s mission of facilitating the integration of immigrants into Canadian society.
Rowan Fisher - Founding Lawyer - Fisher Law
From being recognized for her efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, to continuing invitations to share her knowledge and experience at conferences, panel discussions, and roundtables across Canada, Rowan is leading her team with ambition, compassion, and grace. She has dedicated her life to promoting Indigenous, immigrant, disability, social justice and more. From volunteering in legal clinics to presenting immigration information in person and online across Alberta, to training teams in a wide variety of immigrant-facing organizations, Rowan dedicates her time, energy, and heart to advocating for those in need and ensuring access to justice and immigration legal education to anyone in need.
Kounandi Diarrassouba - Case Manager and Francophone Lead - Calgary Immigrant Women's Association (CIWA)
As a Case Manager and Francophone Lead at the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association
(CIWA) she has dedicated herself to supporting newcomers in their settlement and integration journey. She specializes in assisting vulnerable women facing various challenges by providing holistic support. Recognizing the unique needs and obstacles encountered by immigrant women, she is deeply committed to making a positive difference in their lives.
Alnoor Damji - Vice President - International Partnerships in Kriulis
As the VP of International Partnerships in Kriulis, Alnoor has been involved in speaking and
presentations serving at African Leadership University Conferences and seminars, sharing
insights on the future of work. Alnoor has worked in various roles where racial discrimination has been translated to policy and practice including a Liaison with Canadian Mental Health
Association addressing programing. In addition to this Alnoor was a member of the Racism-Free Workplace Strategy where collaborations with businesses were achieved to address diversity in the workplace.
Brenda Okorogba - Founder - Momentswithbren Consulting
Founder of the Momentswithbren Consulting, Brenda Okorogba is a champion of inclusivity,
actively dismantling barriers for immigrants, particularly those from the ABC (African, Black, and Caribbean) community, through targeted initiatives and unwavering personal commitment. Brenda established a self-funded mentoring program specifically for at-risk and under-resourced youth, including a significant focus on ABC youth navigating challenging work environments. She actively participates in and leads initiatives addressing social justice issues impacting the ABC community, such as racial discrimination and employment inequities. Her advocacy amplifies the voices of marginalized groups and pushes for systemic change.
Toyin Lafenwa Oladele - Founder/Director - Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation (ICAI)
Toyin Oladele is a leader who transforms people and places through her vision of an arts sector in Canada that is inclusive and equitable. As the Founder/Director of the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation (ICAI), she is dedicated to supporting immigrant arts professionals and transforming Alberta's arts sector into a more inclusive and diverse community.
Abby Villanueva - President & CEO - A&G Associates
As the founder of the AGA Academy, Ms. Villanueva's commitment to inclusivity shines through her provision of academic scholarships to individuals of diverse backgrounds, extending beyond Canadian borders with institutions in the Philippines, Tanzania, and Mozambique, creating pathways for international talents to thrive.
Nadine Niba - Experience Manager, Risk Assurance & Tech Risk - PwC
Upon joining the PwC firm as the experience manager, she promptly dived into the role of Black Professionals and Inclusion Network (BPIN) Calgary Liaison where she is working closely to identify and collaborate with other Afro-centric associations that share the common objective of expanding the recruitment pipeline. Her efforts aim to provide comprehensive career development resources and establish mutually beneficial partnerships with corporate, educational, and community organizations to benefit marginalized communities.
Jamila Makii - Operations Manager - Black Canadian Women In Action (BCW)
As the Operations manager at Black Canadian Women in Action, Jamila is a passionate advocate committed to advancing equity and inclusivity within Canada's marginalized communities. With a strong foundation in public health and community development, she plays a key role in establishing and executing programs to support marginalized youth and families. Her work ensures that content is culturally sensitive, effectively addressing the unique needs of marginalized communities.
Aline Nzeyimana - Founder - Wings of Hope for Africa
Aline, as a champion for inclusion, has a heart of gold, full of compassion and care in serving
others, particularly those less fortunate on the streets of Calgary. She is leading a charity that
improves lives on so many levels. Aline taps into where the needs are in the community and then finds ways to help. She makes sure her organization partners with other agencies to bring services to those who require various supports.
Jamilah Edwards - Executive Director - Lionheart Foundation
Jamilah is the executive director of the Lionheart Foundation and she is known to be a leader in the non-profit sector in Calgary where she promoted the inclusion of underrepresented communities. Jamilah has gained a wealth of experience in organizational strategy and leadership, community engagement, systems, and structural change that influences her approach to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and the community.
Turin Tanvir Chowdhury - Associate Professor - (Department of Family Medicine, Department of Community Health Sciences) - Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary
Dr. Turin is an Associate professor at the University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine,
Community Health and Family Medicine Departments. He advocates for the integration of
internationally educated health professionals and promotes engagement of the racialized
communities in his research. He has contributed to numerous equity policies in the healthcare system. His research focuses on the unmet needs of racialized and vulnerable populations in the healthcare system.
Amtul Siddiqui - Executive Director - Bethany Care Foundation
Amtul has been a strong advocate for diversity, social connections and key partnerships in the not-for-profit world and in communities she has lived in. Her dedication to volunteer service outside of her job as the Executive Director at Bethany Care Foundation is through her governance role on the Calgary Police Commission as Vice Chair. She is a champion for the diverse recruitment of police officers who reflect the communities they serve. She advocates for diversity and inclusion in every aspect of the work the Service is doing to move towards erasing systemic racism in all its forms.
Jane Eruchalu - Vice President - Mojek Resources Inc.
As the vice president of Women of Vision, her passion for community leadership and advocacy extends beyond her professional endeavours, as she actively participates in initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers and promoting equity. Through her tireless efforts, Jane continues to make a meaningful impact in creating a more diverse and inclusive future for all.
Adanech Sahilie - Founder & Executive Director - The Immigrant Outreach Society (IOS)
Adanech founded the Immigrant Outreach Society (IOS), a black-led, community-based
organization that provides support for East African refugees in areas of multiculturally sensitive and language-appropriate psychosocial and mental health programs, domestic violence interventions, anti-racism programming and policy-influencing initiatives. She leads by example and establishes strong, trusting relationships. Her commitment to community building, advocacy, and social change has rightfully earned her these prestigious accolades and positions her as a respected leader in Calgary's multicultural landscape.
Stephen Mutizwa - President - Mobile X-Ray Inc & Physiologix Diagnostic Imaging LTD
As President of Mobile X-Ray Inc. and Physiologix Diagnostic Imaging LTD, he leads with a
commitment to diversity and inclusion, with over 60% of his team comprising immigrants from various parts of the world. Beyond his corporate achievements, Stephen's heart lies in
humanitarian efforts. As President of Canada Zim Aid Society, he dedicates himself to supporting vulnerable seniors in Alberta and orphanages in Zimbabwe.
Chi Iliya Ndule - Corporate Commercial Lawyer & Co-founder & President - Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP & Co-Founder Calgary Black Chambers
Chi is not just a corporate commercial lawyer, she is a visionary, a co-founder and the president of the Calgary Black Chambers. Calgary Black Chambers is a not-for-profit dedicated to making Calgary the most equitable place for Black people to live, work and play. Her work, both in the legal field and within our community, exemplifies leadership, integrity, and a profound dedication to uplifting and empowering Black and BIPOC cultures throughout our city.
Fobete Dingha - Inclusive Leadership Award - Cultural Community Associate - Center for Newcomers
Fobete advocates for the empowerment of newcomers towards their settlement process and
liaises with ethnocultural communities to create awareness of services offered by the Centre for Newcomers towards newcomer settlement. He advocates for doors to be opened for newcomers to gain work experience within different agencies to be integrated into the community.
Marcia Gervais - Inclusive Leadership Award - Financial Agent - Experior Financial
Marcia Gervais is a Financial Agent with Experior Financial and a client relations Specialist for
SIEL Human Solutions. In paying it forward, she facilitated a support group for parents of LBGTQ+ parents, so they could better support their children and find new strategies for effective interactions. At work, Marcia has been intentional in listening and magnifying the voices of those around her as well by celebrating the power of interdepartmental collaboration instead of competition. She is proud to now be part of a work community that strives to make a barrier-free room for everyone.
DEE ADEKUGBE - Founder and Executive Director - Ruth’s House
DEE ADEKUGBE aka “Mama Dee” is the Founder and Executive Director of Ruth’s House, a safe haven for families experiencing domestic violence in the African community. Mama Dee is a highly respected community leader and collaborator who is committed to breaking the cycle of abuse in her community. Her passion and advocacy are in developing and providing culturally-centered services, programs and education to the community, by the community, and within the community.
Elise Konadu Ahenkorah - Global Inclusion Strategist and Speaker - Inclusion FACTOR
Elise Ahenkorah is an award-winning global diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) strategist and
speaker. As the Inclusion Strategist of inclusion FACTOR, Elise Ahenkorah uses data-driven
strategies to show how an inclusive workplace increases the bottom line and employee
satisfaction. With inclusion FACTOR, Elise translates a company’s vision into measurable and
practical DE&I tactics aligned with business and talent retention outcomes.
Sharon Cornwall - Founder -Realize Your Potential Youth Society
Sharon is one of the founders of Realize Your Potential Youth Society a community-based nonprofit black-led-youth-led organization delivering programs and activities focused on Mentorship, Education, Economic Empowerment, and Health and wellness. The organization firmly believes in the potential of Black youths and strives to help them unlock their full capabilities. Their mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and empowering space where the descendants of the African diaspora can foster relationships, overcome obstacles, build confidence, and gain opportunities that can enrich their lives.
Inclusive Professional Award Recipients
Narine Dat Sookram - Supervisor - House of Friendship
As an employment counsellor and a rehabilitation specialist, he advocates for minority groups such as people of colour, people with disabilities, women, Indigenous people, and the LGBTQ+ communities. Narine continues to educate employers on the importance of inclusive hiring and the difference it creates in our society. He has promoted diversity, equity, and inclusion through organizing radio shows and DEI virtual concerts.
Humaira Falak - Program Coordinator - ActionDignity
Humaira is a program coordinator at ActionDignity and she spearheads projects on social
inclusion, gender-based violence as well as mental health through her organization. She is a key media and academic institution’s voice on issues impacting racialized communities. Much of her intention has been to highlight the prevalence of Domestic Violence in ethnocultural communities and its lasting effects on women and children. She’s known to personally support and shelter women who are fleeing abusive relationships.
Inclusive Organization Award Recipients
Gateway Association
Gateway Association's mission is unwavering with a desire to ignite a revolution of empowerment, inclusion, and understanding for individuals with disabilities, equity-seeking groups and their families. It does this by offering the community several different programs that support families and caretakers. Job seekers with disability and mental health-based barriers and employers focused on creating more equitable and inclusive workforces in Alberta.
Windmill Microlending
Windmill Microlending is proud to empower skilled immigrants and refugees to successfully
integrate into the Canadian workforce where they can contribute their much-needed expertise. Windmill strives to build a more diverse, inclusive and vibrant economic future by attaining gender parity and significant representation of the under-represented groups on Windmill's board and in senior management positions.
Hands Lifting Hearts
Hands Lifting Hearts Initiatives Society has been supporting Black immigrant pregnant women, new moms, and their families in Alberta since 2016 when it was founded as a grassroots organization. Dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by black immigrant women during pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood, HLH offers a comprehensive range of support such as pre-labour education and preparation for motherhood, emotional and practical support during labour and post-labour assistance, to ensure a smooth transition into motherhood.
Ruth’s House
Through community-based strategies, Ruth House provides culturally focused services and
programs to address domestic violence in a sensitive and barrier-free manner. The organization's work revolves around education, prevention, intervention, and advocacy. As the first emergency shelter and resource center for African women and children, Ruth's House is promoting inclusion through its services that aim to address domestic violence in racialized communities with a unique approach rooted in the Black community's core values.
Calgary Black Chambers
Calgary Black Chambers (CBC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to making Calgary the most equitable place for Black people to live and work in Canada. CBC promotes inclusion through their scholarships that offer recognition and financial support to Black students in grade 12 and post-secondary institutions as well as monthly professional and personal development sessions for the Black community through CBC's fellowship pillar. CBC also advocates for changing antiblack policies and practices through education and meetings.
Momentum
Since its founding Momentum has focused on developing a more inclusive local economy for all. Momentum's first program focused on engaging Indigenous people and immigrants who were under-represented in the labour market. While their programs have always focused on working with diverse community members, their internal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work has become more intentional over time.
Kulture Institute of Cosmetology
Kulture Institute of Cosmetology by Gladys Afolayan is proud to be Alberta's first private institution dedicated to providing a comprehensive curriculum in Afro Textured Hair Education. Their mission is to promote inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry by equipping their students with the necessary skills to work with hair types that have traditionally been overlooked in the cosmetology industry.
Jenik Freight Inc.
Jenik Freight was established in 2016 by Chukwujekwu Onwughalu, driven by an unwavering
passion for efficient logistics. Today, Jenik Freight offers ocean, land, and air freight services to 150+ countries and 300 ports worldwide, in addition to being the first freight forwarding company to provide exclusive, well-established freight services from Canada to Nigeria. The foundation of culture and innovation within Jenik are Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Jenik Freight empowers individuals to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or identity.
As attendees departed the Calgary Petroleum Club, they carried not only memories of a glamorous evening but also a renewed commitment to championing diversity and inclusion in their lives. The gala was a celebration of excellence, a testament to the power of community, and a symbol of hope for a more inclusive future.
In summary, the 2024 Inclusion Champions Awards Gala was an unforgettable event that highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion. It united individuals from diverse backgrounds with a shared goal: creating a world where everyone feels valued and included. As we look forward to future events, let us continue to celebrate and uplift those who promote inclusivity, ensuring their efforts pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.
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