2024 Celebrating Women Magazine

NORAH KENNEDY Celebrates Her Women

SHERALYN ROMAN Becoming Boardward Bound

ASTHA HANDA Embracing Diversity

BRENNAN SOLECKY Celebrating Local Women

WDWA Celebrating Community

RAPINDER KAUR

The Art of Living

Serena Ryder is on a healing path

by TABITHA WELLS

GoYoga is honoured to sponsor International Women's Day with Family Transition Place. By supporting the women and children of our community, together we can have a positive impact on health and wellbeing.

Thank you to all of our members in supporting GoYoga and making this contribution possible.

A Reflection

Archetypes OF

by Norah Kennedy

CELEBRATING “MY” WOMEN

AS MANY OF YOU will have already heard, IWD 2024 will be my final luncheon as executive director at Family Transition Place (FTP). With this transition looming, I find myself in a reflective mood. When I sat down to write this article I found that—although I started with very different intentions—I could not shake this reflective mood.

So, I decided—this year in particular—I can allow myself to be a little self-indulgent.

In this issue of Celebrating Women, I will celebrate “MY” women—the women who have inspired, influenced, supported, challenged, raised—and in many other ways, shaped the woman I have become.

I was struck by the idea that, if I looked at my life and career as a story, each of the significant women in my life filled roles that what might, in literature, be classified as “archetypes.” I decided to explore this idea—that our lives (in this case, my life) are populated by archetypal characters.

literature and education, the outdoors and keeping busy. I learned very early to cherish books and language, as well as the land we lived on and all that grew on it, including our numerous animals.

Lessons Learned: Be kind to dogs, cats and horses. (People too I suppose, but especially animals). Always have several books on your bedside table. Things are always better in the woods.

In this issue of Celebrating Women, I will celebrate “MY” women—the women who have inspired, influenced, supported, challenged, raised—and in many other ways, shaped the woman I have become.

The Rebel and the Creator: My sister was more the rebel than I was growing up. From her teenaged self, I learned that it was way easier to smile and agree and then do exactly what you intended to do anyway, than to protest and fight. She is an avid creator—a writer, an artist, a gardener, a trail blazer. With her, I share my love of the woods and trail walking, gardening and reading. We are the keepers of each other’s childhoods and continue to be sharers of each other’s lives.

Obviously, real people are more complex than theatrical or literary characters, but for my sake, I’m asking you to play along. The following women (characters) have been cast according to the role each has played in “my” story. (If you’re one of them and you disagree with how you have been cast, you can write your own story!)

CAST OF CHARACTERS

The Caretakers: My sister and I grew up in the hills of beautiful Mulmur Township in a house where my mother and my grandmother ruled the roost. Both women highly valued

Lessons Learned: There is no point in being jealous of a sibling (or anyone else) who is better than you at almost everything. Just learn how to take advantage of their talents.

The Trailblazer: My mother’s older sister was the first real “businesswoman” I knew. When she occasionally flew to Toronto on business from her home in Halifax, the woman we met at the airport, dressed in a tweed skirt and jacket, was completely at odds with the camping, swamping, summertime aunt we knew and loved. She was the first woman to show me that women could play many (apparently contradictory) roles and be equally comfortable and successful in

Family Transition Place (FTP) has been committed to helping women and children in Dufferin and Caledon since 1985. In times of crisis, women have found their way through our doors and into safety, often with their children in hand, and here they start the arduous work of re-building their lives. In our welcoming and cheerful shelter, they meet other women whose professional lives are dedicated to helping them overcome their challenges and build new relationships—at the centre of which is the relationship with themselves and their children.

Apart from the shelter services and our critical clinical counselling services that support women with the trauma of the abuse, and both women and men who are dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault, FTP has become known as a leader in the field of healthy relationship education. We believe that by educating youth and children about the importance of respect, self-esteem and nonaggressive behaviours, we can influence the next generation of families, so that they are emotionally healthy and strong

them all. She was a role model for my sister and me without us knowing.

Lessons Learned: We may never know when we are unwittingly being a role model for someone else. It’s best to behave as though it were a regular occurrence.

The Innocent: The role of the innocent is played by my daughter— who may not, at 26, appreciate this reflection. But she is a woman who feels deeply, cares deeply, and wants the world to be a kinder, gentler place. She always has. Like moms the world over, when my child hurts, I hurt. She is a reminder to me to not become cynical and distrusting.

Lessons Learned: The saying that when you have kids you wear your heart on the outside of your body is true. However, some people are born with their heart exposed. So be kind. You never know what impact your words may have.

The Jester: This role is filled by the female friends I have made throughout my life—some from as long ago as high school! My friends have taught me the value of laughter and play. There is a special place in my heart for the women who “knew me then”—young, unformed, still figuring out who I was going to be. I am lucky to have either maintained or re-formed some of these important friendships over the years. When we are together, the jester still comes out, and that is a gift I cherish.

Lessons Learned: Make time for fun. Treasure the people with whom you have made memories and who can still make you laugh.

The Best Friend: This archetype’s description is that of a loyal companion who is committed and always there for you. I met my “BFF” on the first day of class at Ryerson Theatre School. For some reason (it was theatre school after all) we had to take “fat readings” by using calipers (!?).

(And that is the subject of a whole different article!) My BFF and I shared the same fat measurement. We’ve been bonded by fat content and many other things for 40 years.

Lessons Learned: Value those who will love and stand by you, no matter what your body shape, skin colour, gender or fat content. They are the foundation that will keep you standing in the storm.

The Ruler (e.g., archenemy): There was another woman from my theatre school days who stands out for me. A teacher who terrified not only me, but the majority of the class. We would get to class early so we could claim the favoured spot under the piano in the hopes she wouldn’t notice you when she called on the next person to “be in the spotlight.” I learned A LOT from her. Mostly that I was, at that time, WAY too thin-skinned to make it in the theatre world!

Lessons Learned: Sometimes you have to stand up and take the spotlight—but sometimes it’s okay to hide under the piano.

The Sage (mentor): When I left theatre (see above lesson) and changed careers, my first “real job” boss soon also became my mentor and my friend. As my mentor, she supported and believed in me and perhaps pushed me just a little farther than I felt was comfortable. As a result, I achieved goals I had not thought possible. For example, when I expressed concern about having two very young children while she was encouraging me to take a step into management, she told me to take it and make the job “work” for me. (Spoiler alert—I did.)

Lessons Learned: To be a good mentor, you must be caring and supportive and sometimes just a little bit pushy. And also as a leader, if you make a workplace work for women, it will work for everyone.

The Hero—there are many heroes in my story: First are the women and individuals who come seeking help from FTP, who trust us with their stories; then the staff who show up every day with all their hero tools at the ready: strength, courage, perseverance. And they need them all! I can’t forget the volunteers and members of our board (especially the chairs who have often been my support), the women leaders of partner agencies and my sector colleagues—all who do what they do because of their commitment to making a difference in this world. Heroes, every one.

In particular, I need to acknowledge the role that the women in the FTP leadership team play in my story— I have named them my “personal support heroes.” I wish I had space here to single each of them out, for they all play slightly different roles in my team of heroes, their heroism taking many forms. On any given day, any one of them can become my sage, the magician, a caretaker, or (often) the jester (to name only a few), as I need them. From these women, I have learned to trust that someone will always be there for me when I need support, that there is never a day so bad that we can’t find something to laugh about, and that when I need a miracle, I’m quite likely to get one from this team complete with both unicorns and rainbows.

Lessons Learned: When you find a place where you belong, cherish it. When you find people with whom you belong, cherish them.

My archetypal women characters have infiltrated my storyline, often in ways I could never have plotted.

At the time of this major plot development in my continuing saga, I say a heartfelt “thank you” to all the women (far too many to have referenced here but you and I know who you are) in all your many roles, who have supported

me throughout my life and my career. I am so very grateful to you all and feel so fortunate that I have such a strong cast of characters supporting me in my ongoing endeavor to…

…”live happily ever after.”

THE END (or is it?) ��

International Women’s Day

#InspireInclusion

#IWD2024

Norah Kennedy has been FTP’s wellrespected executive director for 17 years. She is retiring in 2024.

Proud to support the International Women’s Day Celebration Luncheon

At Bell, we’re committed to giving back to communities across Canada.

Last year, we supported more than 2,000 community organizations, including Family Transition Place, through projects, sponsorships and volunteer time.

It’s part of a commitment to make our world more prosperous, more sustainable, and more connected every day.

Learn more at bell.ca/BellForBetter

Becoming Boardward Bound

by Sheralyn Roman

IN THE “BEFORE” TIMES, in a world as yet untouched by COVID, a small group of dedicated Family Transition Place (FTP) Board and community committee volunteers embarked on a special project under the working title “Girls on Boards.” The idea was a simple one and aligned with the values of a feminist-lensed organization like FTP: to actively encourage and promote the inclusion of young adult women, not just at the FTP board table, but across similar board tables throughout Dufferin County.

Drawing inspiration from the 2009 formation of G(irls)20, now known as Fora, the project’s aim was to provide training and mentorship opportunities, and to foster cross-agency cooperation in providing more inclusive board opportunities for young women.

Fast forward to “Post-Pandemic” times and much like the world changed, so too did the concept of a “Girls on Boards” program. The idea is now being nurtured by Volunteer Dufferin; an inclusive, gender-diverse, mentorship and educational program now known as Boardward Bound. With the assistance of federal funding in the form of a New Horizons For Seniors grant, the original concept of creating a more diverse and representative board table lives on, still in alignment with FTP’s vision and values and now featuring mentorship roles for seniors, and the support of a coalition of community partners from across Dufferin County.

The original development team of this initiative at FTP was ahead of its time for this community. Their early conversations challenged the concept of simply extending allyship to young

women seeking a seat at the board table, asking instead difficult questions such as: “How do we promote opportunities for young women, typically underrepresented on boards, while NOT excluding other marginalized voices including racialized, non-binary and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community?” Now, in addition to valuing an inclusive board table, and facing a significant decline in volunteer numbers exacerbated by the pandemic, the opportunity to re-engage the nonprofit community in a program that fosters inclusivity, volunteering and community resiliency is timely.

“How do we promote opportunities for young women...while NOT excluding other marginalized voices including racialized, non-binary and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community?”

Boardward Bound is the co-creation of a group of community partners that includes: local nonprofit boards, older adults volunteering their time in an intergenerational mentorship role, young adults between the ages of 18-29 who are interested in serving on nonprofit boards, and representatives from both Headwaters Communities in Action and Volunteer Dufferin.

Devoted to knowledge-sharing and guidance from older adults, and fostering opportunities for youth to gain valuable experience at the board table, Boardward Bound helps to support succession planning for organizations looking to build stronger boards that include a gender-diverse pool of qualified candidates of all ages, and who are representative of the Dufferin County community.

The program is designed to offer training to future leaders in a number of key areas including; nonprofit governance, finance, effective communications, digital literacy and policy

and procedures knowledge. Crucially, as part of their ongoing training and mentorship, all Boardward Bound participants will gain hands-on experience by serving on local nonprofit boards in a non-voting capacity, and will regularly meet with an older adult community mentor. This intergenerational approach encourages older adults to stay active and involved, while sharing their wisdom and expertise with successive generations of nonprofit board leaders.

A permanent guide will be made available for future Boardward Bound participants with the goal of creating a training resource that, when combined with in-person training and networking, will allow future potential board members of all ages and gender expressions to reach their highest potential and build on their leadership capacity as volunteers interested in giving back to the community.

Volunteer Dufferin encourages nonprofit organizations to learn more about hosting a Boardward Bound participant at their board table, and to invite active and engaged older adults interested in mentorship opportunities to ask us how they too can get involved.

Finally, as the original team at FTP first recognized, the mix of faces and voices of community leaders volunteering for board positions is changing, as it must. Building on the original FTP vision, Boardward Bound remains committed to creating opportunities for individuals from diverse and marginalized communities, encouraging participation from seniors, youth, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, and persons with disabilities. Thankfully, nothing about the pandemic has “put the brakes” on this forward momentum. From creating spaces for girls and women, to creating spaces for everyone, now anyone in Dufferin County can be Boardward Bound.

Sheralyn Roman After challenging careers in HR, teaching and communications, while balancing numerous volunteer commitments (including serving on the Board of FTP) Sheralyn Roman now enjoys the best of both worlds, working with Volunteer Dufferin as their Community Engagement Coordinator.

by Astha Handa

Embracing Diversity

a journey of empowerment & inclusion

As I sit down to write this article, I am filled with gratitude and excitement. Gratitude for the opportunity to share my journey with you, and excitement for the progress we continue to make in our collective pursuit of gender equality and inclusivity.

AS THE DIRECTOR of People, Equity and Culture at Family Transition Place (FTP), I am honoured to contribute to our International Women’s Day Celebration Event and the publication of Celebrating Women magazine.

My journey to this role has been one of growth, resilience, and determination. Born and raised in India, I embarked on a new chapter of my life when I moved to Canada at the age of 17 to pursue my undergraduate studies. Little did I know then that this journey would shape not only my academic and professional endeavors but also my personal identity and values.

Arriving in a new country, I faced numerous challenges and adjustments, navigating cultural differences, and embracing the unfamiliarity of my surroundings. However, it was also a period of immense learning and self-discovery. I vividly remember the first time I walked into a classroom in Canada, feeling both excitement and apprehension. While I initially struggled to find my place in this new environment, I soon realized that my unique perspective and experiences were valuable assets.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with various organizations across Ontario, primarily in the fields of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Each experience has contributed to my growth and deepened my commitment to fostering a culture of empowerment and celebration of women.

One particular experience stands out in my memory—a conversation I had with a young woman who was struggling to advance in her career due to gender-based discrimination.

As she shared her story with me, I was reminded of my own journey and the barriers I had faced along the way. I encouraged her to persevere, reminding her of the strength and resilience that lies within her. Seeing her confidence grow over time and witnessing her eventual success was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we support and uplift one another.

Joining FTP was a defining moment in my career journey. Here, I found a community dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence, while also championing social justice and equality. As the Director of People, Equity and Culture, I am inspired by our organization’s mission to create a safe and inclusive space for all, regardless of gender, race, or background.

One of the core principles guiding my work at FTP is the belief in the power of representation and amplification. As a South Asian woman, I recognize the importance of seeing oneself reflected in leadership positions and decision-making processes. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to inspire others, particularly women of colour, to pursue their passions and break barriers in their respective fields.

In my role, I am constantly reminded of the intersectionality of gender, race, and other social identities. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is essential to acknowledge that the fight for gender equality is intrinsically linked to broader struggles for justice and equity. We cannot truly empower women without addressing systemic inequalities and dismantling

oppressive structures.

Through our DEI initiatives at FTP, we strive to create inclusive policies and practices that centre the voices of marginalized communities. Whether it’s implementing unconscious bias training, promoting diverse hiring practices, or providing culturally competent services, we are committed to fostering a culture of belonging where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

As we look to the future, I am filled with hope and optimism. The journey towards gender equality may be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. By standing together, supporting one another, and embracing our differences, we can create a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.

On this International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive society. Let us celebrate the achievements of women around the world while also recognizing the work that still lies ahead. Together, we can create a future where every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, has the chance to live a life of dignity, empowerment, and fulfillment.

In closing, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible women who have shaped my journey and inspired me along the way. Your resilience, strength, and determination continue to fuel my passion for advocacy and social change. Together, let us continue to rise, uplift, and celebrate the remarkable women in our lives and communities.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Astha Handa is FTP’s Director of People, Equity and Culture.

Artwork at left generously donated by Priya Anand Pariyani, an artist from India who has a deep concern for the life, problems and relationships of women.

Celebrating local women

The publishing of Celebrating Women magazine alongside our International Women’s Day celebration always provides Family Transition Place (FTP) with the privilege and opportunity to reflect on the remarkable women we are surrounded by. The women who support us, who support other women and their families, who volunteer their time and expertise—women who fiercely believe in our Mission and Vision and who deeply recognize the importance of celebrating women—not just on International Women’s Day—but every day. While there is simply no shortage of extraordinary women to honour and celebrate in this community, we are pleased to share the perspectives and experiences of a select few. by

Brennan Solecky

Why is it important that we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD)?

“I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar”, Helen Reddy’s anthem, represents the fundamental need to recognize International Women’s Day. The coming together of a collective community to honour the economic, cultural, educational and political achievements by women speaks to the importance of awareness, equality, gender and social issues. Although we honour the contributions of women, the journey is ongoing. Nancy Frater, Owner, Booklore

If you were speaking to a group of young women, what would you want them to know?

To the young women of today, I would emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and recognizing their own greatness. Do not wait until later in life to appreciate your worth and embrace your unique qualities. Strive for balance in your self-perception; acknowledge your flaws but also celebrate your strengths and achievements. As women, we often magnify our imperfections and downplay our power and successes. Embracing both your flaws and fabulousness equally is key to a fulfilling and empowered life.

Juli-Anne James, Co-Founder & Executive Director, Streams Community Hub

What/who are you most proud of? Why?

I am most proud of the network of women in my life. At every stage in my life I have had sisters (biological and chosen) who have shaped who I am today. By their presence, their actions and examples, their truths and their insights, their encouragement and even their correction has made me who I am today. My network of women inspires me to be my authentic and highest self in everything that I do. They celebrate with me. They reprimand and coach me when I need it. They updraft my successes and anchor me when I’m losing my way.

Geraldine Aguiar, Chief Executive Officer, Caledon Community Services

If you could celebrate just one woman, or group of women on IWD, who would that be?

Why?

I would celebrate Cindy Blackstock PhD, member of the Gitxsan First Nation, Executive Director of First Nation Child and Family Caring Society, recipient of numerous awards, champion of Jordan’s Principle, and part of taking the Canadian Government to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal who then ordered Canada to end discrimination against Indigenous Children 2016. Why? Because she is an outspoken advocate for Indigenous rights for women, children, families, intergenerational trauma, sixties scoop survivors, and reconciliation. Karen Vandenberg Mino Kamik, Medicine Wheel Garden Volunteer

If you could celebrate just one woman, or group of women on IWD, who would that be? Why?

I would like to celebrate all the high-ranking women within my organization who had paved the path for the women after them. At one time women were not permitted to be police officers, and we now have female officers holding the highest police ranks. An incredible amount of work went into that gender equality progression.

Terri-Ann Pencarinha, OPP Officer

Is there a particular woman who inspires you?

Dr. Roberta Bondar has always been a woman I’ve looked up to. Growing up in Sault Ste. Marie, she was a household name. Dr. Bondar was the first Canadian woman and first neurologist in space and as a teenager I recall thinking that if she could do it then I could, too. Years later, just after I had my third child, I had the honour of meeting Dr. Bondar after she was speaking at a conference. I was standing at the side of the auditorium rocking a fussy baby. When she finished her presentation, she walked off the stage, straight toward me. She commended me on attending a medical conference with such a young child and acknowledged the struggle of motherhood and being a working professional. I am thankful a photographer caught a photo of us in that brief exchange and will forever remember meeting Dr. Bondar at this important time in my life. Amy Catania, BSc MD CCFP FCFP

FTP extends its most sincere gratitude to these exceptional women for allowing us to share their thoughtful words and reflections. As these responses are all excerpts of the heartfelt insights of these women, you’ll find their complete responses on familytransitionplace.ca, which we hope you’ll take the time to review and reflect on.

PHOTOGRAPH

Serena Ryder

walking a path of healing

SERENA RYDER might be most wellknown for her music, but her passion and work supporting mental health and wellness, and women, is just as powerful. While these might seem like separate pursuits at first, they are interwoven, connecting to each other.

Growing up in Millbrook, Ontario (located just outside of Peterborough), Ryder began her musical career when she was 17, releasing her first full-length album in December 1999. Performing has been a part of her life for much longer; she began singing at eight years old and learned the guitar at 13.

“I come from a super musical family,” explained Ryder regarding her affinity for music. “My mom was a go-go dancer and backup singer in her twenties and my bio dad was in a calypso band from Trinidad. I was pretty much born into it!”

good at hiding my emotions when people said stuff like that, but now I know that emotions are one of my greatest guidance systems.”

Ryder’s own battles with mental health and her experiences as a woman in the rock industry have played a powerful role in her raw and earnest songwriting, and her experience and creativity have in turn played a role in her mental health advocacy and community building with women.

by Tabitha Wells

was combined with the wisdom of age, experience, and her journey.

“I now trust myself and am in a healthy relationship with creativity in a way that I’ve never experienced before,” she explained. “I have a lot more patience and that allows for the natural seasons of my life to reveal themselves, and allows my creativity to be perennial.”

Women supporting women is one of the most important and impactful communities that can be created...there is a magic to the inspiration a group of women can bring to the community.

As she ventured further into her career, Ryder found that as a woman in rock and roll, things could be challenging.

“Being out on tour, I always felt like it was safer to put on a tough face and ‘be one of the guys,’” she explained.

It was harder, in those earlier years, for her to be herself as an artist, and to share those truly authentic parts of herself that we see in her more recent work.

“A ‘compliment’ that I used to get all the time was ‘she’s so good, she plays guitar like a dude!’” I got really

In her latest album, The Art of Falling Apart, Ryder brings an authenticity and vulnerability to her music that chronicles her mental wellness journey.

On her website, Ryder notes:

“For years I walked a path of healing, hoping that one day, I would finally arrive. I’m realizing I’m only either walking towards or away from myself, my truth. Neither good nor bad, both directions lead to wisdom and familiarity with a broader terrain. These are my chronicles, the steps I took to find my way back to myself.”

Like anyone who has pursued change and growth in their life, Ryder is now a culmination of who she once

In 2018, Ryder was highlighted in an article by Liisa Ladoucer in The Globe and Mail as one of seven women hailed for changing the Canadian music industry. In the introduction, Ladoucer noted that these women were “thriving in their fields, and using their voices to make things better for other female performers in the studio, on the road, in music videos and the boardroom.”

In the article, Ryder said her experience as a woman in a growing community of strong women provides her with strength and balance. Building relationships with other women in the art industry has played a big role in her life, and it is clear Ryder has worked hard to do the same for others.

“Women supporting women is one of the most important and impactful communities that can be created,” Ryder said. “There is a magic to the inspiration a group of women can bring to the community. We birth not only the children of the world, but some of the most brilliant ideas.”

Serena Ryder is currently working on new music, slated for release later this year. She will also be releasing a new holiday album following her release of  I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus in December 2023. Fans will be able to catch Ryder at a number of summer festivals this year, as well as during a tour around Christmas 2024. To check out Ryder’s music or learn more about the artist, visit serenaryder.com.

Tabitha Wells is a writer, wife and mom based out of Dufferin County. A former journalist, she enjoys writing about social issues and challenging people to inspire and work towards change.

Cultivating community

The Wellington-Dufferin Women’s Association

THE WELLINGTON DUFFERIN Women’s Association (WDWA) was founded in the fall of 2022, driven by a shared vision of community connection and a commitment to giving back. Spearheaded by Sarah Majeski, a farmer from Erin, Ontario, the association emerged from the challenges of on-again-offagain lockdowns. Majeski, alongside her friends Jessa Patterson and Tracey Sullivan, first initiated “The Collective”— a small, independent women’s agricultural group focused on regenerative farming practices and sustainable food production at Majeski’s West Credit Farms in Hillsburgh, Ontario.

Reflecting on The Collective’s transformative impact, Majeski shared, “I learned so much during the first year. I changed from someone who preferred to work independently to someone who believes in teamwork and values different perspectives.” The group explored diverse topics, from perimenopause and Botox to food security and

by Jessa Patterson and Sarah Majeski

meditation, fostering an environment of open discussion.

As the fall approached and the growing season began to wind down, Majeski aimed to extend this communal energy beyond their gatherings, targeting not only those interested in farming but the broader public. Her first-hand account of social isolation while volunteering at a local mental health institution heightened her motivation.

Recalling that time, Majeski said, “I had witnessed profound hopelessness in people who had slowly become more and more withdrawn. Although I understand these feelings can be very complex, I believe this is partly a symptom of a lack of in-person socialization and authentic connection that has been replaced by social media.”

This realization sparked her to initiate a change beginning in her community, building on a foundation which The Collective had already established. “I was feeling inspired and I wanted

to create a supportive community of women where we could learn from one another, leveraging individual strengths, and finding complementary support for weaknesses, much like the experience we had created within The Collective,” said Majeski.

The WDWA’s inaugural initiative was the Witches Walk in October 2022, an event that exceeded all expectations. Majeski’s impromptu invitation through social media led to 65 women stepping out of their comfort zones, finding the courage required to connect on a deeper level, with a goal in mind to collect donations for East Wellington Community Services.

The success of the Witches Walk laid the foundation for the WDWA. Majeski, Patterson, and Sullivan envisioned an association that would be a safe space for women of all identities, including cisgender, transgender, non-binary, intersex and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Their vi-

L to R: Sarah Majeski, Tracey Sullivan, Sara Colantonio and Jessa Patterson

sion aimed to foster a collaborative environment for learning, maximize individual strengths, and support local resources; all while transcending the boundaries of professions, socioeconomic status, and cultural differences. From this, the WDWA emerged as a formal entity with a mission to empower, connect, and contribute to the broader community.

The WDWA held its second annual witches walk in October of 2023 and more than tripled the donor impact seen at the first event.

Speaking to this, Majeski said “despite the intended playful nature of an event where women dress up as witches, the momentum that has developed over the past year by providing people with a safe place to express themselves and support one another has made a substantial positive impact in people’s lives.”

The WDWA’s dual focus revolves around cultivating authentic connections, personal growth, and community engagement, coupled with a commitment to philanthropy and outreach. Over the past year and a half, the association has served as a thirdparty fundraiser, channeling support to organizations like Family Transition

Place and East Wellington Community Services. By contributing to these vital community resources, the association hopes to extend its impact beyond its membership, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Adapting to Change

The adaptability and responsiveness of the WDWA has been integral to its continued success. In response to the evolving needs of its members, the association recently introduced a hostess package to guide members on how to become more actively involved. This initiative reflects the association’s commitment to providing clarity and support for its members, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

Looking ahead, the association plans to continue fundraising and explore the impact of more frequent, spontaneous intimate gatherings, aiming for a holistic approach to community building. The annual Witches Walk will continue to be hosted with intentions set on maintaining growth and persistently fostering engagement.

Cultivating Community—

The Way Forward

The WDWA is not just an organization; it is a movement dedicated to

empowering women and building a stronger, more connected community. By working collaboratively, embracing diversity, and encouraging open dialogue, the WDWA becomes a conduit for valuable community information.

The association’s vision aligns with its mission statement: “Better Together.” By fostering a sense of belonging, facilitating personal growth, and actively contributing to the well-being of the broader community, the WDWA exemplifies the transformative power of collective action.

The story of the WDWA is one of empowerment, resilience, and community impact. From the humble beginnings of The Collective to the far-reaching initiatives of WDWA, the journey reflects the strength that lies in women coming together to create positive change. As the association continues to evolve, its commitment to authenticity, connection, and community engagement remains unwavering, paving the way for a brighter and more interconnected future. With each event, fundraiser and gathering, the WDWA is sowing the seeds of lasting connections and community empowerment, proving that indeed, we are better together.

The WDWA’s inaugural initiative, the Witches Walk (October 2022), exceeded all expectations.

by Rapinder Kaur

The art of living

confessions of an art therapist

HUMANS ARE INTRICATELY and intelligently designed. We are naturally creative. Our creative expressions are a manifestation and extension of our unique individuality that allows us to connect with others. Art can speak to us in ways language cannot, bringing us together across time and space, breaking down barriers that separate us. We have a deep reverence for art, something that we have created since the beginning of time. Despite our deep desire and drive to create, many of us feel it is beyond our abilities

and skill. We have somehow conflated creativity with artistic talent and we forget that creative expression can be found in ordinary tasks like cooking, gardening, and in the ways in which we curate the different aspects of our lives.

In addition to what I call the creativity crisis, our lives are entrenched in systems that label us, limit us, restrict us, and box us in. Disconnecting us from ourselves and each other.

What do I mean by this? Growing up I felt like an outsider, like I did

not belong. I was not clever enough, capable enough, pretty enough, fair enough, tall enough, skinny enough, or good enough. My experience of being in the presence of others was awkward, exhausting and anxiety provoking. As I transitioned into adulthood, I noted a resistance to this boxing in. I did not want to be labeled. I had discovered that I was much more than what socially constructed norms were informing me about who I was. I had this urge to dismantle the box, and find a larger and more expansive way to fully articulate who I really was, even if it was complicated and did not make sense to others.

Art therapy was key to what I was searching for.

I found that the simplicity of engaging in the process of making something was powerful and transformative. It ignited imagination, presented a myriad of possibilities, presented an evolving sense of meaning, evoking a deeper understanding of the self and bringing forth connectedness and joy. The making of the art brought forth a rich tapestry of ideas, thoughts and feelings, and an abundant source of energy. I found making art, especially in the therapeutic space, magical.

While I was privileged enough to be afforded the opportunity to embark on the journey of discovering who I really was, I noticed in my work that there were many people for whom this was not even an option. The thing about labels is that they are not benign or neutral. They perpetuate and prop up systems of oppression. When we don’t see the whole person they are robbed of their dignity and their humanity making them vulnerable to many forms of violence. Including but not limited to misogyny, racism, discrimination, exclusion, genocide, psychological abuse, financial abuse, manipulation, control, gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, and sexual violence.

When I started my art therapy practice almost 15 years ago, I knew I wanted to provide an expansive space for people to rest and take refuge from the pain and suffering in their lives. A place where they felt at ease,

welcomed, seen, comforted, taken care of and relieved. Through art making they could embark on a journey of discovery, learning about themselves beyond the labels and the tick boxes. Their trauma, pain, challenges, and negative experiences, did not define them but were a sign of their triumph. I wanted my clients to develop an unshakable belief that they were worthy of giving and receiving love, and that they had the power to create the change they wished for or imagined.

Just prior to setting up my practice, I had the opportunity to work at Family Transition Place (FTP), providing support to women and their children who had witnessed and or experienced domestic violence. The art-based directives I brought to FTP’s Peaceful Families group did not line up neatly with the evidence-based program curriculum that was considered the gold standard. I was often questioned about the validity of the art-based activities and interventions. While at the time the research was not readily available and art therapy was considered alternative and fringe at best, I observed firsthand the transformational power of art making in a therapeutic space. For the women and children in the groups, their lives had been upended, they had lost their home, sense of self, security, dignity and hope. When they engaged with the art, they came alive, they experienced joy in the face of pain, and they showed resilience, strength, solidarity with others and what Sikhs call chardi kala or rising optimism. There were no mistakes in the art, the art was forgiving and gracious. Art made room for everyone. There was freedom to express and a freedom to choose. While I have no evidence or statistics to show that the art interventions were robust, I knew that each person in the group left with a reminder that even when their life had fallen apart, they could experience joy, belonging and had the

power to spark creativity.

Art is not just for children or the elite. It is not frivolous, or a nice to have. Art is for everyone and absolutely necessary for health and well-being.

Art helps our communities to flourish and thrive. It allows us to embrace our essence, empowering us to show up for ourselves and others with courage, commitment, empathy and heart.

Art as Therapy is a community-based private psychotherapy practice. The founder, Rapinder Kaur, Registered Psychotherapist and Art Therapist (who speaks with an English accent, wears brightly coloured turbans and loves to clean) opened a small office in Orangeville in 2009 with her dreams and vision in hand as well as a few art supplies, of course! The practice has since expanded to locations in Milton and Brampton, providing support to children, youth, adults and families. The wonderful team members at Art as Therapy (almost all identify as women), who are adding their creative power to the space, are committed to the founding vision as well as community service, care + comfort, compassionate action and cultural humility. Art as Therapy also hosts and supports the Orangeville Art Hive, which is a free community art studio for all ages.

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