Celebrating Diversity, Inclusion and Excellence at the 2023 Inclusion Champions Awards Gala

On February 24th, 2023, the Calgary Petroleum Club transformed into a stunning venue for the Inclusion Champions Awards Gala. This year, the event honored the incredible achievements of 37 Inclusive Leaders, 7 Inclusive Professionals, 6 Inclusive Organizations and 1 Inclusive Lifetime Leader.

Each of these individuals and groups are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within their communities. The evening was a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.

The gala began at 6 PM with a glamorous red-carpet experience that set an exciting tone for an evening of celebration. Guests arrived, mingling over drinks and sharing their personal stories about their journeys toward inclusivity. The atmosphere pulsed with laughter and anticipation as everyone prepared to honor those who have made impactful contributions to this vital cause.

Elegant black and gold decor at the Inclusion Champions Awards Gala

At 7 PM, Fatima opened the evening with welcoming remarks, creating an inviting atmosphere for all present. Her heartfelt words resonated deeply, stressing the importance of celebrating those who advocate for inclusivity. Following her, the talented Peace Etaje captivated the audience with a performance that combined music and storytelling, beautifully enhancing the night’s theme.

The Executive Director, of the ICC, Eve Aboka later took the stage. She highlighted the significance of the awards, emphasizing the impactful work of the honorees. From One Award recipient to another, the gala was more than a celebration; it was a call to action, encouraging everyone to champion inclusivity in their daily lives.

As dinner was served, the guests engaged in a lively panel discussion hosted by Tanya. Influential voices shared insights about the present state of diversity and inclusion. One discussion point noted that organizations with diverse leadership are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors, underscoring the tangible benefits of inclusivity. This inspired ongoing conversations throughout the night.

After a brief intermission, audience members enjoyed a poignant performance by poet Clarence. His powerful verses spoke to the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in the ongoing fight for equality.

Panel discussion at the Inclusion Champions Awards Gala

The awards ceremony, which started at 9:50 PM, was undoubtedly the evening’s highlight. It featured several categories, including Professional Awards, Organizational Awards, and Leadership Awards. Each segment was hosted by prominent figures like Moji, Abel, and Fatima. Excitement filled the room as each recipient took the stage to accept their award, sharing heartfelt stories and expressing gratitude for this recognition.

The Lifetime Leadership Award, hosted by Eve Aboka, honored an individual dedicated to inclusivity throughout their life. Their commitment has inspired countless others. The heartfelt speeches and emotional moments highlighted the critical need to recognize those who lead by example. Just as the following Individuals and organizations do

Lifetime Inclusive Leadership Award Recipients

1. James Smith - Retired Lawyer - Osuji and Smith Lawyers

   
   

Inclusive Leadership Award Recipients

1. Linda McLean - Executive Director - The Brenda Strafford Foundation

2. Dee Adekugbee - Executive Director - Ruth's House

3. Farah Ali - Co- Founder - Calgary African Community Collective

4. Hon. Rajan Sawhney - Minister Trade, Immigration & Multiculturalism - Gov. of Alberta

5. Lanre Ajayi - Executive Director - Ethnik Festivals Association

6. Ifeoma Ngwudike - Founder - Yes2Amazing

7. Moji Taiwo - Founder - The Immigrant Experience Show

8. Asif Rashid - Supritendent - Calgary Police Service

9. Leslie Shier - Director Client Excellence - Calgary Economic Development

10. Robert Micah, MBA - Co-Founder - Ghana-Canada Chamber of Commerce

11. Lynn Berry - President - Futures by Design Inc

12. Vangie Caoile - President & C.E.O - Canada Advantage

13. Evelyne Serbout - Founder - Outreach Program Canada

14. Gie Saladio - Financial Advisor - Delta Account Management Inc

15. Gelila Mast - Regional Manager - TD Bank Group

16. Dr. Charles Odame-Ankrah - President - Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Calgary

17. Angelah Kusero - Workplace Development Manager - Manpower Services Alberta

18. Jerry Caingcoy - President - The Filipino Champions of Canada

19. Avril Martins - Inspector - Calgary Police Service

20. Charles Osuji - Managing Partner - Osuji & Smith Lawyers

21. Bunmi Obateru - Lead Researcher Black Entrepreneur Project - Bow Valley College

22. Evelyne Nyairo - Founder - Ellie Bianca

23. Zenas Bukasa - C.E.O - Chateau Kids

24. Wazhma Sadaat - C.E.O - Calgary Women Social Protection Association

25. Okwuch Nnani - Senior Advisor, Community Outreach Office of the Premier - Gov. of AB

26. Gar Gar - Executive Director - Youth Empowerment & Skills Centre

27. Clare Jagunna - Founder - Hands Lifting Hearts

28. Doreen M. Rabi - Head Division of Endocrinology - University of Calgary

29. Sherissa Celis - Immigrant Senior Services - Calgary Catholic Immigration Society

30. Arvindbhai Patel - Independent Senior Advocate

31. Clarence Wynyter - Co-Founder - Calgary Black Chambers

32. Adam Massiah - Co-Founder - United Black People Allyship

33. Wycliffe Molah - President - Kenya Calgary Association

34. Gladys Afolayan - C.E.O - Kulture Institute

35. Anita Ngau - Property Services Coordinator - Discovery House Family Violence Prevention Society.

36. Tanya Eklund - C.E.O - Tanya Eklund Realty

37. Francis Boakye - Executive Director - Action Dignity

Inclusive Professional Award Recipients

1. Zehra Voong - Intake Coordinator - Gateway Association

2. Nada Haider - Career Counsellor - Calgary Immigrant Women Association

3. Gene Lachica - Career & Inclusion Consultant - Gateway Association

4. Theresa Onwughalu - Banker - Scotiabank

5. Ismine Osman - Regulatory Advisor - Telus Communications

6. Ricardo Yepez - Career & Inclusion Consultant - Gateway Association

7. Savita Singh - Cross Cultural Parenting Facilitator - Calgary Immigrant Women Association

Inclusive Organization Award Recipients

1. The Brenda Strafford Foundation

2. WorkNicer

3. Manpower Services Alberta

4. Calgary Foundation

5. Calgary African Community Collective

6. Osuji & Smith Lawyers

In the final moments of the evening, Executive Director Eve Aboka delivered closing remarks, reflecting on the celebrations of the night and the shared responsibility to continue promoting inclusivity. This gala was not merely an event; it was a movement and a reminder that every action contributes to creating a more inclusive society.

The 2023 Inclusion Champions Awards Gala was an undeniable success, uniting a diverse group of individuals focused on one common goal: to cultivate a world where everyone's contributions are valued and recognized. The event showcased remarkable achievements from dedicated advocates that inspired attendees to keep pushing for diversity and inclusion.

To sum up, the gala celebrated excellence, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of those who promote inclusivity. As we look back on this memorable evening, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made. In unity, we can ensure that the movement for change continues long after the last applause has faded. We all have a role to play in