with Funke Olokude
Dr. Miriam Sekandi
Darren Jordan with Adaku Uju
With summer here, we are grateful for the heat, flies and spiders. We welcome everything this summer has in store for us. Things appear in limbo, but we are making progress, taking little steps as we walk through open doors. Tomorrow can be better than today, so let us create things that last forever. In this edition, we have the two women who want to be the Premier of Alberta: Danielle Smith and Rachel
Notley. We also have the Chairman, Board of Directors of Ribbon Rouge Adaku Uju and their multi-awardwinning Executive Director, Funke Olokude, as we join their efforts to increase awareness around HIV amongst the BIPOC population.
We remain grateful to the Edmonton Community Foundation for funding the stories of Black businesswomen on 118 Street. This is the final of the two-part series, which shares the untold stories of Hijabi Muslim women who trade or do business on 118 Street. As always, the errors are all mine.
To Open Doors
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Lorrie Morales
• Will take seniors out of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
• Plans to make you pay to see a doctor
• Keeps extremists as political allies
• No action to control insurance, tuition and electricity costs
• Ignores the need for new schools and more teachers
• No action on racism and human rights protection
• Improve public health care; cut wait lists; no fees for visits to your doctor
• Will strengthen human rights, fight racism and start race-based data collection
Income tax freeze, tuition freeze, caps on insurance and electricity rates
• Committed to building new schools and hiring more teachers
• Will protect seniors’ security by keeping the CPP
In this election, Rachel Notley and the Alberta NDP: A better future for you and your family.
Authorized by Alberta NDP albertandp.ca
Stop Danielle Smith. Too Risky. Too Unpredictable. Wrong Priorities.
Culinary treasures from our backyard and beyond - local and European favourites under one roof.
Grocery. Bakery. Deli. Café. italiancentre.ca
Bridgerton swept the media by storm with its diversity and a man that united all women everywhere. However, it also highlighted how silence places a woman in danger. We often discuss ending mental health stigma in our communities, but what about sexual health? Daphne’s ignorance about sex gave the Duke complete autonomy of her pleasure and procreation. Yes, she reclaimed her power thanks to a chatty maid, but the same issues are happening today. However, not talking about sexual health harms our mental and physical health.
Illnesses such as chlamydia, syphilis and HIV are rising in women, ESPECIALLY ages 25-32, yet it’s PREVENTABLE through awareness and resources. We need to change the narrative that
knowing and talking about sex makes you promiscuous because it makes you healthy. Learning about your sexual health prepares you for the side effects of non-consensual sex and helps you heal. For example, even with limited race-based data, we see that almost 25% of new HIV cases are in the Black community.
We need to stop shaming and silencing the conversation on sex to control our health, be prepared for warning signs, and be reactive when needed. The shame and silence do not just lead to health issues but suicide. Talking about sexual health saves lives.
So, where to start...
Volunteer with agencies like HIV Edmonton or Ribbon Rouge Foundation to break the stigma and learn more.
Ask a doctor for an entire bloodwork run, including HIV and syphilis.
Note: If you feel triggered by this article, please call The Mental Health Hotline at 1-877-303-2642 (Toll-free)
Odion Welch
with Rachel Notley
The battle for Alberta is on now between two powerful women: former premier Rachel Notley and current premier Danielle Smith. Notley served as the 17th premier of Alberta from 2015 to 2019. She has been the leader of the Opposition since 2019. She is a member of Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Strathcona. She is married to Lou Arab and she has two children.
What are the pressing reasons why you want to be the Premier again? I want to rebuild our public healthcare so that every Alberta family can get the care they need, when they need it, close to home. I want to build a resilient jobs economy, and I want to get families’ monthly bills under control. Danielle Smith and the UCP are focused on
extremists, not Alberta families.
Education and healthcare seem to be the key issues around your campaign - Can you describe the work that needs to be done for Black Albertans regard - ing anti-
racism and empowerment?
An Alberta NDP government will pass the Anti-Racism Act, which will begin the critical work of gathering race-based data. It’s disappointing the UCP voted against this.
Race-based data will let us identify where our education and health systems are not serving Black Albertans – and other racialized Albertans – properly. We will develop a modern curriculum that honours the experiences of Black Albertans and embeds the values of anti-racism throughout.
We will also work to expand access to capital for Black entrepreneurs.
Please can you re-iterate your commitment to creating more school spaces in Edmonton’s overcrowded schools and $10 a day daycare?
Albertans can be confident that an Alber-
Rachel Notley Alberta Politicsta NDP government will build more schools in growing neighbourhoods and hire more teachers and educational assistants so that kids in growing areas aren’t forced into overcrowded classes. We will also accelerate the implementation of $10/ day daycare to save families money and allow parents to re-enter the workforce.
Can you share your three top priorities for Alberta?
Rebuilding public healthcare and connecting a million Albertans with a family doctor. Getting monthly bills and costs under control for Albertans.
Building a resilient jobs economy.
Some of your online campaigns can be perceived as negative - will it get worse as we get into the election season?
I’m very proud of all the positive proposals we have made to Albertans, and I encourage folks to visit albertandp.ca to see all our commitments. It’s our job to hold the government accountable when they cause harm to Albertans, and we won’t be shy about speaking up when we see the UCP causing harm.
What are ordinary Alber-
tans telling you when you go door-knocking?
Albertans are tired of a reckless and unpredictable UCP, led by someone who is more interested in extremists than regular Albertans. They want their public healthcare to be there when they need it, they want to cover their bills each month, and they want to know there’s a job for them and their kids in Alberta.
What plans have the premier got to support, enable and empower Black -English-speaking media?
The Alberta NDP appreciates the role that ethnic media plays in their communities and understands that their needs differ from more prominent media outlets.
Over the last four years, ethnic communities have received $7 million less in grants than they had under the Alberta NDP. We will reverse this.
We are committed to working with the media to explore options to ensure better access and inclusion.
Alberta NDP is being labelled by the Opposition as wanting to defund the Police. Please can you clarify your party’s position?
Our proposal to improve public safety in the downtowns of our major cities includes funding for additional police officers paired with more community support workers. We will ensure the streets are safe both by putting more police officers on the beat and also providing the housing and social services needed to reduce the desperation and mental illness in our communities.
Away from the stress of the elections, what do you do for your mental health?
I spend time with my family and friends, and I love to run in the Edmonton River Valley or wherever I find myself in the morning. As I travel around Alberta, my morning runs have been the way for me to see the most beautiful spots in our province.
Alberta goes to the polls May 29th.
Albertans can be confident that an Alberta NDP government will build more schools in growing neighbourhoods
2 cups of chopped fresh spinach leaves
1 cup of grated carrot
1/2 cup grated zucchini
1 cup chopped pre-cooked bacon or ham
1 cup shredded Lactose-Free Cheddar Cheese
1/2 cup Lactose-Free Plain Yoghurt
1 1/2 cups of Almond Milk
3 eggs, lightly whisked
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup quinoa flour
1 cup tapioca flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare muffin tin with muffin cups. Trust me and save yourself the frustration of trying to remove muffins when they stick to your pan.
2. Combine spinach, carrot, zucchini, bacon, and Cheese in a mixing bowl. Once well combined, add almond milk, yogurt and egg. Stir well.
3. Add seasonings and stir. Finally, mix well with quinoa flour, tapioca flour, and baking powder.
4. Fill muffin cups almost to the top. These muffins don’t rise very much so they won’t likely spill over. Bake for 20 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. Remove them from the muffin tin and cool them completely on a wire cooling rack. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes: You can play with the vegetables in the recipe and add fresh herbs. Here are some suggestions.
• Replace carrots with 1 cup of a mix of onion, red pepper and mushroom (sauteed in advance)Replace Spinach with curly green kale chopped fine.
• Replace the plain yogurt with lactose free cottage cheese.
• Replace bacon with seasoned taco meat, chopped chicken or turkey.
• Add in 1/4 - 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, cilantro, chopped fresh basil, fresh thyme or whatever you have on hand or prefer.
Recipe by Angela @ojasovenIt ta kes a strong com mu n it y to ra ise strong ch i ld ren . To en su re Ca lga r y’s yout h meet t hei r f u l l potentia l, Ca lga r y Fou nd ation prov ided f u nd ing to t hese t wo g ra s sroots g roups that help g ive k id s a nd teen s t he tools t hey need to t h r ive.
by Elizabeth Chor ney-BoothThe last three years have taken a toll on young people’s mental health. A 2021 study from the University of Calgary revealed that rates of depression and anxiety symptoms had doubled in children and youth compared to pre-pandemic levels. COVID-19
compounded the challenges of finding affordable treatment for kids struggling with mental health. The pandemic also exacerbated anxiety issues for youth in families who may have faced job losses or are particularly vulnerable to COVID.
That’s where the Lionheart Foundation comes in. The organization was founded in 2009 to help families
access quality long-term treatment for youth ages eight to 28 suffering from anxiety and anxiety-related issues like depression, eating disorders, selfharm and suicidal ideation. Lionheart doesn’t deal with mental illnesses that need treatment by medical professionals; it focuses on issues that can be addressed by community-based therapists that may be out of reach for low-income families.
“If you're looking for someone who knows how to work with a young person and you need to commit to six months of therapy, that can be a cost-prohibitive treatment for many families that may not have access to insurance plans through their work,” says Jamilah Edwards, Lionheart’s executive director.
Lionheart does not directly employ therapists, but refers youth and their
“ We believe mental health care is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their income.”
—Jamilah Edwards
families to one of 20 local and carefully vetted partner/contracted therapists.
The foundation’s role not only connects families with treatment, it helps to remove financial barriers. Depending on family income, Lionheart provides partial or full funding for an unlimited number of sessions until the youth has received an entire course of treatment.
“There's no limitation on how long we'll support them,” Edwards says. “We know that, on average, it will take at least six months to address people’s needs and see a real shift in their lives.”
Demand has increased during the pandemic: In 2019, Lionheart provided 91 youth and parents with treatment subsidies, but that number bumped up to 218 in 2021, with a target of 275 for 2022.
Edwards hopes that, through funding from organizations like the Calgary Foundation, Lionheart will continue to grow sustainably to meet increased community need. With 82 per cent of participants reporting significant improvements in their overall mental health after treatment, it’s clear that access to therapy is making a difference.
“We believe mental health care is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their income," Edwards says. “Mental health is not just affecting kids of privilege. It’s affecting all kids.”
hen it comes to learning skills beyond the core subjects covered in school, not all of Calgary’s children are on an even playing field. Advanced computer science education programs are often only available at select schools or camps as extracurricular activities and can come with a hefty admission fee. Recognizing that a lack of access to coding and technology classes puts marginalized kids at a disadvantage, the Hakili Community for Sustainable Development decided to do something about it.
Hakili is a collective of primarily
racialized individuals that works to develop programs to support parents and educational initiatives that enrich youth to fight inter-generational poverty and empower families. Noting the disparity in accessing technology instruction for kids led to the development of a free program called Yes We Code that launched in 2019.
“As we’ve seen with the pandemic and rapid development of technology in recent years, acquiring these skills is no longer a luxury, it’s becoming a necessity,” says Camilia Thieba, Hakili’s founder and CEO. “If we didn’t act now and take things into our own hands, the kids in the community are at risk of becoming doubly marginalized.”
Hakili created the initial version of Yes We Code in partnership with Canada Learning Code. But, once the pandemic hit, Hakili shifted to create its own program, which was offered virtually. The organization partnered with
the Electronic Recycling Association to secure used laptops for students to use at home, and it recruited and trained volunteer instructors passionate about STEM and equality. With support from the Calgary Foundation, Yes We Code
offered an in-person robotic and coding summer camp for kids in Grade 2 to 12 this past summer. The group returned to virtual for its 24-week program to make things more convenient for kids and their families in the fall.
So far, it’s been a rousing success, with registration starting with just 10 participants in the first year, growing to 20 in the summer 2022 camp and approximately 50 in the fall session. Thieba says, besides keeping kids busy and teaching them new skills, Yes We Code has helped build confidence among kids who may not have thought that computer science was for them.
“It's really fun — it’s not only work,” she says. “It gives them the opportunity to be creative and dream, and have conversations about the future and what's possible in the world.”
Photos courtesy Yes We Code/Hakili Community for Sustainable Development; far top right; photo courtesy Camilia Thieba“
As we’ve seen with the pandemic and rapid development of technology in recent years, acquiring these skills is no longer a luxury, it’s becoming a necessity.”
—Camilia Thieba
Danielle Smith was sworn in as Alberta’s 19th Premier on October 11, 2022. She represents the riding of Brooks -Medicine Hat. Before re-entering politics, Premier Smith worked extensively in the media and business, most recently as President of the Alberta Enterprise Group. Before that, she was a radio host with Corus Entertainment for 6 years. Premier Smith holds degrees in both Economics and English from the University of Calgary. She is married to David, and she is a proud stepmom to his son. Premier Smith and her husband own and operate a restaurant. They live in High River with their two dogs. LCCMedia is grateful to the Premier’s press team for making this happen. We asked some tough questions, we hope the responses will make your decision easier as you vote on May 29th.
Your government has done much work around affordability and the costs of living crises? Is this working for people?
Alberta’s economy has recovered strongly, but many Albertans still struggle to pay their bills and feed their families. As a province, we can’t stop inflation, but thanks to our strong fiscal position and balanced budget we can offer substantial relief.
We have acted swiftly and decisively on a suite of measures now underway to help all Albertans with affordability.
Alberta’s Affordability Action Plan provides broad-based relief to help all Albertans and businesses and targeted relief for parents, seniors
and vulnerable Albertans. Broadbased relief includes suspending the fuel tax, indexing income tax and $500 electricity rebates. Targeted measures include the $600 affordability payments for families,
· Committing $163 million for public safety in Budget 2023
· Helping the City of Calgary and Edmonton hire 100 more street level police officers · Supported the transfer of command and control of transit peace officers to the Edmonton and Calgary police services to improve coordination and better target problem areas on transit systems.
· Provided a $5-million grant to each city for additional mea sures taken to clean up public transit stations.
seniors and vulnerable Albertans, re-indexing AISH and the Alberta Seniors Benefit, providing support to food banks and other community groups and more funding for low-income transit pass programs. Today, over 1.2 million Albertans are enrolled and receiving $600 over six months. Thanks to our affordability measures, Alberta has had the lowest rate of inflation for consecutive months, leading Canada in lowering inflation.
Safety on Public transport is on the minds of Albertans - what more can the provincial government do?
Albertans have the right to walk freely at night and use public transit without fear of their safety being a barrier, and Alberta’s government will do whatever it takes to make the streets of Edmonton and Calgary safe again. This is why we have taken significant action by;
· Created public safety tasks forces in Calgary and Edmonton, aimed at addressing public disorder including: ad dictions, homelessness and crime. The task forces include cabinet ministers, First Nations leaders, city councillors, social services agencies, Alberta Health Services and police services.
· And, an nounced pilot projects in Calgary and Edmonton to deploy Alberta Sheriffs and PAC teams in joint patrols of in ner-city neigh bour
“ We have acted swiftly and decisively on a suite of measures now underway to help all Albertans with affordability.
hoods with local police increasing law enforcement capacity and presence in city centres, including transit facilities.
Our government will do whatever it takes to ensure public safety and that includes addressing public disorder and crime, especially violent crime, on public transit inAlberta’s government supports parental choice in selecting
vider that fits their family needs, which is why the government has advocated
care agreement that will ensure parents have access to thousands of affordable
ly Learning and Child Care (CAELCC) Agreement ing our child caretem by -
vesting $3.8 billion over five years in a made-in Alberta plan, creating up to 68,700 more child care spaces and reducing child care fees to an average of $10/day by 2026.
Alberta will invest more than $1 billion in early learning and childcare in 2023-24. This includes more than $861 million through the CAELCC.
Homelessness in Downtown Edmonton remains a crucial issue. Is this problem solvable under the Premier’s leadership?
We have been working hard to implement Alberta’s action plan on homelessness to help support those experiencing homelessness get connected to supports. This includes $63 million that was announced last year to increase the number of shelter spaces in Edmonton throughout the winter, increase funding for housing supports to more than $1 Billion over three years, and piloting a service hub model that connects those in need with supports for recovery, housing, employment, social programs, and more. With these efforts combined with supports provided from Mental Health and Addictions, we are making downtown Edmonton safer for all.
The Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism is a brilliant initiative to tackle antiracism. Is this initiative a little too late?
It is never too late to begin giving marginalized voices a platform to be heard within government. The Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism will help provide BIPOC people a chance to directly influence government and help continue to guide the province in a direction that supports everyone no matter their race or background. Alberta’s government also realizes that there is still a lot of work to be done on addressing racism in the province,
and we will continue to work with communities that represent under-represented groups to ensure they feel safe and welcome in Alberta.
There is a lot of misunderstanding around whether or not Albertans would pay out of pocket for healthcare -can you clarify your position? Is there more the government can do to make this position clear?
This is a narrative put out by the NDP to confuse Albertans. Luckily, Albertans have seen through their negativity for what it is, and will see through it again. I provided Albertans with a Public Health Care Guarantee that under no circumstances will any Albertan ever have to pay out-of-pocket to see their family doctor or to get the medical treatment they need. All you will ever need is your Alberta Healthcare Card. We’ve also signed a 10year, $24 billion health care deal with the federal government committing to upholding the principles of the Canada Health Act.
Can the Premier share her three ardent wishes for the future of Alberta?
1) To become debt-free
2) Build the Heritage Savings Trust Fund to generate enough revenue to reduce reliance on resource revenues
3) Improve health care so Albertans can get the health care they want and need when and where they need it.
What does the premier do for her mental health?
1. Good night’s sleep
2. Walk my dogs
3. Meditation with the Calm App
Cris Derksen, International Indigenous Composer and Cellist, is a Juno-nominated artist from Northern Alberta who has been playing the cello since she was about ten years old. She started with the Edmonton String Program, which was accessible and affordable. “Everything really influences my music,” Cris shares. “My perspective of being Indigenous –part Indigenous and part settler – definitely influences my perception of the world around me.” When composing, she takes little bits of things she likes; braiding the contemporary with the traditional. After attending the University of British Columbia, she was determined to leave with her own music and style.
At the age of 5, Cris was playing the piano, but even then, she was more inspired to create her own music than play the music on the page. Attending University to obtain her Cello Performance Degree allowed her to play and perform her music well. She also knew that she “wanted to make the cello more street level and relevant and cool …but classical music can be a place that is stuffy.” She has literally brought the music from street level into the concert hall.
Besides the Juno nomination, some of the highlights of her career include travelling with Inuit throat singer, Tan-
ya Tagaq, on a world tour. In 2010, Cris started doing her own albums ranging from electric cello to Orchestral Powwow, leading her back from the Folk Fest stage to the concert stage. She has toured Hong Kong, Mongolia, and Norway exclusively. “Collaborations are enjoyable for me,” Cris indicates. She says it is more about creating music and collaboration than the actual awards.
When she “pushes the boundaries of music,” Cris reiterates that all art takes something from the past and puts it into the present. The key pedal and effective instruments allow her a bigger pallet to work with, even though most orchestras are not used to doing that. David Robertson is an author she enjoys.
Cris reflects on the fact that there is a resurgence in Indigenous music. “I really want to open the doors for other BIPOC folks to come into the symphony hall;” a place that is welcoming and where the music is understandable and relevant. One of her goals is for people to understand the importance of being inclusive.
In most of Cris’ work, there is an underlying message that she tries to get across. One example of a beautiful metaphor is “Round Dance,” one of her favourite pieces. Indigenous and nonindigenous people hold hands and dance together in a circle. Some of her songs deal with environmental issues, such as water. “I’m always using this platform to talk about Indigenous issues and journeys.”
Learning new skills and pushing herself forward were specific to her time during the pandemic. Now a new album is coming out in the fall, and she has a commission with Orchestra Metropolitan out of Montreal with a visit to Carnegie Hall in the United States. “Everyone has a story.” Spirituality is an everyday event, not just a holiday experience. “My best pieces are when I take my ego out of the room and just let the music come and let Creator speak through me.” We are listening.
Cris Derksen recently curated a show spotlighting all Indigenous works for the Winspear Centre.
Everything really influences my music
“
earned many recognitions. In 2020, she was named Top 40 under 40 for her continuous work influencing policies and practices across various sectors in Alberta. Recently, she was honoured with the coveted Rosalind Smith Professional Award by the National Black Coalition of Canada Society (NBCC) for her tireless work and advocacy for marginalized communities. Her contribution to the teaching and education space earned her a Jaye Fredrickson Award for Teaching Excellence Nomination in 2021 & 2022 and for her exemplary leadership, a Universal Women’s Network Woman of Inspiration 2022 Finalist as well as the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. Funke has recently been appointed President of the Nigerian Canadian Association of Edmonton.
Ribbon Rouge Foundation (RRF) is doing important work in Edmonton, raising awareness around HIV. With multiple events in 2023, RRF is leading meaningful conversations around HIV prevention. Their first event this year was at the Edmonton City Hall, and it was an innovative showcase - using the multiple dimensions of the creative arts to highlight complicated problems in antiracism.
Their first major event at the Commonwealth Recreational Centre, titled Afya Equity Hub, explored achieving equity in income, social support, employment and education for equity-seeking communi-
ties. The project brought together individuals with and without lived experience and organizations to address the critical social determinants of health.
The Afya Equity Hub was also an information hub where key findings on research were shared with the community and partners. Recommendations were developed based on the ‘lived experiences, expectations and organizational encounters to improve and achieve health equity.’
The Executive Director of Ribbon Rouge Foundation is award-winning Funke Olokude. Olokude has
With over fifteen years of extensive experience in the social service industry working with diverse populations and sectors in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta and continuously promoting equity in policy and practice, Funke has created and executed several projects here in Alberta, including working on Early Intervention and Prevention strategies for children, youth, and their families to minimize risk factors.
She is currently working on health promotion using the Social Determinants of Health as a guide to increase well-being and outcomes for Albertans to improve quality of life that fosters higher chances at successful settlement for immigrants leading to optimal contribution of skills and assets. Funke’s experiences as a Board Director for several organizations, Principal Consultant, Senior Program Manager, Intercultural Family Resource Network Lead (Edmonton Region) and
most recently, the Executive Director at Ribbon Rouge Foundation have granted her the opportunity to make decisions at the management and supervisory level, keeping the best interest of the individuals and families served in mind while considering the impact on the larger society. All her professional experience has been grounded in theoretical underpins and frameworks of having a Psychology (B.A. Honors) degree from York University, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from the University of Calgary and a Master of Education Policy Studies – Adult, Community and Higher Education specialization at the University of Alberta.
Please tell me how you got into this field. Tell us a little bit about you.
I have worked in the social services field for about 17 years, providing direct management, research and policy support across various sectors. I first did work in the HIV space in 2009 through a research project looking at access to support for those who are impacted and affected by it in West Africa, specifically Nigeria.
What is the 5-year plan for Ribbon Rouge? Do you see an end to this silent epidemic in our lifetime?
I definitely see an end to this in our lifetime, but to bring an end to any issue is first to acknowledge its existence. I believe we must first de-mystify HIV and Sexually Transmitted Blood Borne Infections (STBBIs) in the African, Caribbean and Back communities.
Our understanding of HIV and STBBIs as a community leads to stigmas that make it hard for us to create the space to have holistic conversations that allow preventative
measures where possible and early intervention as needed to thrive.
One of the ways in which Ribbon Rouge Foundation (RRF) is leading the way in prevention and early intervention is in the distribution of HIV self-test kits, an initiative funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). This initiative allows individuals to take the test in the comfort of their homes and get a result of their status within minutes. HIV self-test helps connect to care, support and treatment.
The research is overwhelming that there is an increase of 25% in ACB communities. Why do you think this is so? Are we doing enough to halt the spread of HIV?
African, Caribbean and Black people represent about 3.5 % of Canada’s total population yet account for an estimated 25 % of new HIV diagnoses. We need to find avenues as a community to begin having conversations about HIV and STBBIs to help us understand the ways in which our society is impacted by it so we can build strategies that work
for us rather than import mainstream measures that clearly are not working for us. RRF is currently working to collect the relevant data and information for us to have interventions and strategies generated from the grassroots by us and for us.
In your work, which mindsets do you find most interesting and prohibitive in perpetuating stereotypes around HIV?
The fact that we have made HIV synonymous with sex is one of the biggest challenges to doing early intervention and prevention work in the HIV and STBBIs space. When we look at our attitudes toward sex and sexuality, we often do not have healthy and holistic conversations about them; there are very few spaces and people we feel free and comfortable bringing up this issue. Sometimes they may not have the most accurate information. There is discomfort around speaking freely about sex and sexuality in most ACB communities, which snowballs into the stereotypes and stigmas we encounter doing HIV
research and work.
There are also other salient factors, such as narratives that we have held on to from the early 80s when HIV first broke versus what it means to live with HIV in present-day based on advancements that have been made in the treatment and management of it. In fact, majority of people do not know that it is only due to improvement in HIV research that strides in the COVID-19 vaccine was made possible.
How does income disparity and generational poverty feed into the spread of HIV in ACB communities?
When we look at the statistics, it shows that stigma is one of the greatest challenges in working around providing support for those impacted and affected by HIV and STBBIs, also in rolling out early intervention and prevention strategies. The stigma associated with HIV and STBBIs often leads to isolation and marginalization of those impacted and affected, further compounding access to adequate support.
Tell us more about audience reaction when you use theatre arts, song, and dance to communicate ACB communities’ struggles. Art is significant to the ACB community as most of the community have histories of oral communication. This was the way in which information was expressed and passed down, which makes the arts a great tool to connect with one another and tackle conversations that sometimes bring discomforts, such as HIV and STBBIs. We have found that individuals can express themselves often through the arts, and there are multiple forms of expression embedded within it that it is possible for everyone to find their
voice through one form or the other.
Are churches, mosques, and schools a part of your work? Yes, we could not do this work without the help of faith leaders, as they are the individuals people naturally go to in times of needing support. We have partnered with several faith organizations in our outreach strategies to provide awareness, training, information and support. We are open to collaborating with more organizations and would gladly connect as the opportunity arises.
What can our audience do to combat HIV? Should we be scared? There is no need to be scared; in fact, fear and early narratives of
HIV continue to be challenges in the work to combat the spread. Incredible strides and gains have been made in the treatment and management of HIV and STBBIs: in some cases, the virus could be controlled within six months. HIV treatment can make the viral load so low that a test may not be able to detect it.
We encourage everyone to get tested as needed, dependent on your situation, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider as what this could look like for you based on your situation. Self-test kits are available through RRF; whatever the next step would be for you, there are avenues to support you.
Find out more about Ribbon Rouge here: www.ribbonrouge.ca
Adaku Uju is a Barrister and Solicitor in Alberta, Canada. She obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and her Master of Laws (LLM) from the prestigious Osgoode Hall Law School of York University, Toronto, Ontario.
Adaku is the Principal of Cynel Law Office and Professional Corporation, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, with a range of Law practice areas. She is also the Executive Director of the Afri-Cynel Humanitarian Organization and the Edmonton African Dance Festival. Adaku was excited to come on board with Ribbon Rouge. This organization does amazing work on health equity, advocating for race and gender issues, delivering sexual health education, engaging with the public and promoting social justice through Arts. She followed them for years, and when they invited her to join, she welcomed the opportunity “to volunteer in a leadership capacity and learn more, while building community, impacting positive social changes and bridging the gaps to achieve health equity amongst African, Caribbean and Black Canadians.”
Adaku brings a wealth of experience in law, community and technology to Ribbon Rouge. She believes that women, irrespective of career, sexuality, race or even nationality, should get interested in serving their communities and notfor-profit organizations. She indicates that several studies have shown that organizations stand to gain from having women on their Boards of Directors. Even though they remain a distinct minority on these boards, women continue to be appointed through personal relationships, experience, and expertise. Organizations with a higher proportion of women serving in these capacities engage more people in charitable giving than organizations with a lower percentage of women serving
on these boards. There was also more philanthropy in community service and involvement in the arts. Adaku finds that most investors and funding organizations seem to value diversity and the potential contribution of women. Appointing female directors on these boards is a means of improving governance.
Since Adaku joined Ribbon Rouge, she has been grateful to work with the diverse professional team and the seasoned and supportive Board of Directors. She has experienced recent public engagements at the City Hall and Commonwealth Recreation Centre and feels she has learned so much about various health-related topics, which is significant and strategic.
Now as the Board Chair, Adaku is com-
and open in all dealings, is the responsibility of the organization’s Board of Directors. This may be an issue for some not-for-profit organizations in Edmonton, as “I realize that governance, especially good governance, is increasingly in the spotlight … due to the demand for more transparency and accountability.” The Board of Directors has the overall responsibility and strategy for achieving the organization’s legal purpose. If those responsibilities are neglected, Adaku indicates that this puts the organization’s sustainability at risk; however, if the organization is equipped with a good governance framework, this should ensure productive and accountability and the organization will deliver an equitably, ethically and sustainably mission.
In the past number of years, Black women’s representation within organizations has increased; however, it still remains significantly underrepresented on Board leadership portfolios. Boards need to ensure that they are creating a culture that embraces and leverages Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and promotes “full and public support for DEI efforts, models inclusive leadership, and actively participates in training and mentorship.” Adaku is delighted that key organizational boards in Edmonton have phenomenal, professional and executive Black women in leadership positions. She is incredibly proud, knowing firsthand, the enormous benefits they are bringing to not only their organization but to other groups and communities as well.
mitted to serving and learning in that role. She is responsible for and represents the Board, while the Executive Director is the organization’s public face. She chairs the board meetings, reviews board agendas and materials, identifies action items and follows up on Board decisions. She also ensures that she attends most Ribbon Rouge events and is available to answer any questions from the attendees. Governance, the practice of ensuring that organizations are accountable, fair
Adaku is thankful for her family. Mother’s Day is a “truly special day” for her to honestly reflect on motherhood and appreciate her sweet, gorgeous, adorable and incredibly talented young entrepreneur daughters, Lulu and Mimi (aka LuMi Cosmetics). They mean the world to her and are the very “essence” of her being. She is very proud of them. Adaku also appreciates her beautiful mother, Elsie; her amazing sisters, IJ and Oby; her ageless grandmother, Josephine; her darling friends and dearest aunts. To that end, Adaku would like to say “Happy Mother’s Day” to all women globally. “You are loved, adored, celebrated, appreciated and truly special and thank you for all that you do!”
Kaycee was elected in April 2019 as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-South West. He was appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs on April 30, 2019 making him the first African-born minister of the crown in any provincial government in Canada. Since then Kaycee has done his utmost best to be a good ambassador for new Canadians in Alberta.
Kaycee is the first Black Attorney General, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General and the first person of colour to become a Deputy Premier in Canadian history.
As Minister of Labour and Immigration, Kaycee worked with the federal government to increase the number of immigrants to Alberta under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. He worked to ensure family ties in Alberta became a prominent feature of Alberta’s immigration program. As Minister of skilled Trades and Professions, Kaycee expanded skilled trades and training opportunities for everyone, including newcomers to Alberta by establishing the first ever Alberta Ethnocultural Skilled Trades and Training Grants. There is more work to be done to ensure Alberta remains a place of exceptional opportunity for everyone. That’s why Kaycee is seeking re-election as the MLA for Edmonton-South West.
Kaycee has achieved more in a single term to combat institutional racism than any other elected official. He put an end to the discriminatory practice of carding and brought about significant changes to the Police Act. These include setting up the first-ever civilian oversight committee to scrutinize police complaints, introducing an inclusive hiring policy for ethno-cultural communities, and establishing the Alberta Hate Crime Coordination Office with a dedicated hate crime liaison officer. These are just a handful of Kaycee's impressive achievements in his four-year tenure.
Kaycee is committed to providing every child in Edmonton-South West access to world-class education. He made this a reality by securing funding to construct three new schools in the riding, including one in Edgemont and two in Glenridding Heights. But that's not all. Kaycee also secured funding for new schools in Rosenthal and Cavanagh. To make schools safer, Kaycee will bring back resource officers to schools, so your child can focus on learning without worrying about their safety. And for children with learning disabilities, Kaycee is securing additional funding to help them thrive in the classroom.
Kaycee believes in parental choice in education because you know what's best for your child. With Kaycee on your side, you can be confident that your child will receive an education that sets them up for success.
You deserve access to quality health care where and when you need it, this can only be achieved through innovative changes. Kaycee has been an outspoken advocate for legislation that would allow individuals trained in foreign countries to come to Alberta and work in their fields. This means more doctors, nurses, and health care workers coming internationally and providing much needed relief to our overworked healthcare system. Kaycee has also secured $634 million in funding for the new South Edmonton Hospital. This will relieve the pressure on other Edmonton hospitals and provide state of the art treatment and care to the residents of Edmonton-South West.
The talk about bras is one shrouded in so much mystery. Not finding adequate breast support, especially in endowed women, has given rise to issues ranging from physical pains to emotional upheaval. Moreover, women are often overwhelmed with bra shopping due to the time it takes and the many they need to sort through with little guidance.
Enter TheBraGirl...
Its founder, Bukola Adedeji, is pas-
sionate about helping women find the right bras for their bust and body types. She not only makes it easy for girls and women of all shapes and sizes to get comfortable support, she also provides awareness on how to use undergarments as tools of productivity in everyday life.
More than offering bra fitting services, TheBraGirl facilitates various programs that help women build their confidence and enhance their quality of life.
Find TheBraGirl at Core Shopping Centre, Level 3, 320 317 7th Avenue SW, Calgary.
For the past seventeen years, Darren Jordan, curator and producer of “5 Artists 1 Love”, has been bringing artists together during Black History Month. It started as a grassroots endeavour to provide expression of dance, music, poetry, and art to celebrate Black Canadian culture. This singular event has become a landmark within the Edmonton community. The years have been laborious, but they have been the most rewarding years for Jordan. The impetus for starting the group was to expose the community and the city to Black artists. It was “satisfying and edifying” to see the work of “5 Artists 1 Love” and many other art shows throughout the year. He admits that more work needs to be done, and he appeared frustrated and optimistic that they would find the funds they required easily as they move into their second decade of art entertainment in Edmonton. Jordan’s legacy has become generational as they ‘inspire a growing number of people each year with their stunning performances, toe-tapping music, spoken word, and soaring vocals and immersive experience”.
LCCMedia caught up with Jordan recently to talk about arts and culture in the city.
After working in mental health for over 26 years, Darren reiterates
pocket” with help from the community. Since then, people are now paid for services because revenue is generated. Accessing grants has been helpful, as well as the Edmonton Arts Council and Edmonton Community Foundation support. Obtaining solid corporate sponsorship is Darren’s goal.
Darren Jordan Interview that even though curating and producing music is his passion, finding that work–life balance is a challenge. As the event grew, there were more responsibilities, people involved and expectations. This prompted initial fears “If the show doesn’t work, I’m going straight to the airport and catching a flight out of the country,” he jokes. Thankfully, he has never had to resort to that. He admits that those involved in this worthy endeavour are committed, and the event resonates with everyone who attends. Jordan is very modest. His efforts in the industry have revolutionized the landscape for Black people for generations to come.
Initially, the concept of this event was relatively new and was run out of a small gallery. Darren chose five artists from the Black community to show and sell their work. The entire event was very professional and effectively run. When the event was moved to the Arts Gallery of Alberta, it generated more income to cover expenses. It offered a fantastic opportunity to the group, but it did change things. Darren wrote a music production that was and is a huge success. He shares that the demographics of those attending has changed, but “in spite of the challenges an organization like this might have, it’s absolutely worth it.”
Darren hopes for a sustainable, anticipated and ever-growing event in Edmonton. Putting more time, effort and soul into the event will be possible in the future, as well as taking it outside the city. For years, there was little input in terms of funding, and Darren paid “out of
“We should be holding space throughout the year at various times” to promote Black excellence, such as Culture Days and Art Battle Royale. The pandemic interfered with events; however, in May of 2022, the performance at Winspear Centre had an overwhelming response. The Art Gallery of Alberta also hosted its 15th Anniversary. Now, people will have access to the Gallery and show with free entry for the exhibit from next year on the main floor.
Winspear Centre will welcome 5 Artists and 1 Love on June 17 as part of efforts to commemorate the end of slavery in North America.
Visit www.winspearcentre.com for your tickets.
Darren Jordan
Dr. Miriam Sekandi is the CEO and Founder of Break Free Zone a unique development platform for individuals desiring to break free from socio-cultural conditioning that causes family and racial trauma. She is also a leading consultant, keynote speaker, and facilitator who is passionate about parenting, mental health, diversity, equity and inclusion. She is also the author of the international bestselling book “It Takes a Village to Wreck a Child.” Her professional experience over the last 30 years includes education, training and consulting for secondary and post-secondary institutions, facilitating workshops and consulting for non-profits and post-secondary education in Canada.
Dr. Sekandi is a lecturer at the University of Alberta in the Secondary Education Teacher Education Program, Board Chair of the Alberta Black Therapists’ Network, and a Facilitator with Black Mental Health Canada. She also leads the implementation and integration of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) Models for at-risk youth transitioning to independence within Boyle Street Community Services - Group Living Program. Dr. Sekandi holds a Ph.D. in Secondary Education and an M.A. in Textiles and Clothing both from the University of Alberta, and a B.Ed and Dip. Ed from Uganda. She is passionate about and available to speak or con-
sult on the following topics: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Racial Trauma, Intercultural Parenting for BIPOC, Self-Empowerment and Personal Development for Immigrants and Newcomers.
Coming to Canada in 2004 from Uganda, Dr. Sekandi was always an advocate for social inequality. Because of her background as a teacher, Dr. Sekandi can identify disparities in today’s classrooms or our communities. Even though she experienced some direct racism in Canada, it has mainly been microaggressions and systemic inequalities she has dealt with.
Dr. Sekandi believes there needs to be a diverse composition of teachers in the schools because of the diversity of students. Many hiring practices highlight the need to hire diverse individuals, but unfortunately, “the doors are open for everyone to come in, but the space inside is not for everyone.” For example, Dr. Sekandi is trained as a teacher in Uganda, yet if she applies, she finds that the “experience that is wanted is very Canadian specific.” The system, language, and procedure used to recruit are not inclusive. Despite qualified immigrants applying for positions, the requirements do not match their experiences.
The need for diversity is evident, but the Black perspective is important as well. There is a “need to look at things from a multileveled space.” In terms of education, the government has a huge part to play. If a policy is regarding diverse needs, then there is a need for diverse people to look at it from a different perspective. It is also about holding everyone accountable to the policy regarding issues of racism and discrimination. “Racism is experienced in different ways and at different levels,” Dr. Sekandi states, and children learn about racism at home, from television and books. Culturally safe environments need to be created for students. Dr. Sekandi recommends getting more people on board to fix a situation. This might include external help, parents, and students to sit on a committee.
Research indicates that many immigrant
families are working several jobs, have lack of language and are attempting to support their children. Some of these students are not completing high school or are unemployed.
Dr. Sekandi suggests that children need to be supported regarding their career choices and direction in terms of courses to take to enable them to get into post-secondary institutions.
Helping students understand their cultural backgrounds and having Black teachers visible in positions such as career counselling would benefit students. Grades will have meaning if students wish to pursue a career.
As children journey through the educational system, Dr. Sekandi believes that parents need to be or to find mentors for their children. Seeing more Black people in different professions would make things more normalized for children. As elders, “we need to do more to support these children…” Putting opportunities in front of young adults is Dr. Sekandi’s job.
The door is slowly opening for more Black people to apply for positions in schools. When we underestimate the power of our voices and continue to complain to each other, the system can never be fixed, Dr. Sekandi shares. “We have to start speaking to the right ears… using our voices and avenues and spaces and stop being dismissive of opportunities to network and speak.” The system may be broken, but we can all work to support our students
Miriam SekandiWe are grateful to the Edmonton Community Foundation for sponsoring the stories of Black Muslim businesswomen. This is the second part of a two-magazine series where we feature businesswomen on 118 Avenue. Amina Moussa has held her business for over fifteen years.
Tell us a little about yourself and your business. Hello, my name is Amina Moussa. I have been a shop owner for the past 15 years in Edmonton. My shop, Koss Boutique, caters to traditional African products, from organic powders to conventional perfume oils.
How did you get into the business?
I started my business to fill that void I had in my paid career. There was minimal opportunity for me to use my skills or develop further. Later, when my children became older is when i took the leap into pursuing something I felt passionate about.
Why business? How did you choose what to sell? Is business good?
I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart. I remember selling gum at school in my early teens for money on the side. If you had told me then that I would be a shop owner in the future, I wouldn’t have believed you.
What is it like having a store on 118 Street? Is it safe? Are people fair?
118 Street in Edmonton has plenty of business opportunities. Various immigrant shop owners start their businesses here because of the tight-knit African community we have. We care for our community, the streets are safe, and people are fair.
Did the pandemic affect you in any way? Would you say you have recovered from the effects of the pandemic? The pandemic has not been without challenges. Many businesses had no choice but to close down. We haven’t 100% recovered, but we are very fortunate to be here still.
How do you market?
On social media like Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat. We also have a website where we sell a couple of popular things.
Would you encourage people to get into the business?
Yes, I think it’s definitely challenging, but once you understand and learn from experience, it’s truly the best. I enjoy getting to know all the customers and meeting people from different countries.
Do you find time to read? What was the last book you read?
Yes, I try to read at least 30 minutes before bed most nights. I enjoy getting inspiration from different novels, and it helps me relax. Currently, I am reading “The Most Powerful Women in the Room is You“ by Lydia Fenet.
Share with us a word of wisdom from business or faith. Nothing good in life comes easy and if you truly work hard and continue to strive for what you believe in, good things will come your way. Patience is key and it will take time but don’t give up and continue to work for what you want.
Amina Moussa shares business secretsSponsored feature by the Edmonton Community Foundation
Faizer Abdelgadir is from Sudan and she came to Canada in 2002. She is a single mother of four children who started her company because she is passionate about owning her own business. She owned a cleaning company in Egypt and was self-employed. She worked for a few companies and gained other experiences in daycare, security, cleaning, and her husband’s shoe-making business. Trying to raise the children and being low-income prevented her from going to school, as she did not have a choice. Friends of hers suggested starting a small cleaning company and so she registered the company but it was difficult finding contracts. After a few months, another friend suggested cleaning Su-
perStore because they needed a cleaning company and they worked together. At that point, Faisa realized that she could attend school, and started attending college and studied business accounting. She completed her courses and received her degree. She opened her own office for six months, and then the pandemic forced her to work from home. Faizer still needs clients and customers and works the night shift with the cleaning company but she continues to press on.
“It’s not easy to build your own business,” Faizer states. First, you need experience, customers, and work. Faisa works with her community and even though her grown children help her, she understands that they need to thrive at what they are doing as well. Faizer now has two businesses. She does accounting and helps others apply for Employment Insurance, helps them with their resume, or fills out sponsorship applications.
Faizer works with her community by helping them understand what is going on in Canada and the province. Many people do not know how to write a resume or apply for school, jobs, or programs. She gives them resources to use or refer to help benefit
them.
Faizer has plans to open an office with her son, who is studying accounting now. Even her oldest daughter has experience in accounting. The long-term goal is to open a family business. Each of her children has their education, and accounting is in their repertoire. They help her with the business even now when she is busy. Faizer is a hard-working woman who has a vision for the future.
Faizer Abdelgadir Faizer AbdelgadirAre you a new homeowner ready to purchase your first house or property? Or perhaps you are a seasoned buyer who knows the housing market? Regardless of your status, real estate is a huge investment and taking time to understand the details of buying or selling a property is important.
Tricia Rakos and Laurie Allan are Century 21 real estate agents in the Foothills area. Working in collaboration, their motto is “Let us guide you home.” They have sound advice regarding tips for buying, as well as selling your home based on a collective thirty-six-year experience. Whether it is residential, commercial, or rural, communication is the key.
First, getting Pre-approved is the first step when buying a home. Knowing your limits and staying with a budget is paramount. When you have your finances in place, it’s important to interview various realtors and choose the one that will help you navigate the market and feel comfortable working with on this important decision. Next is getting to know the market. Because it is continually changing, you need to keep up to date in terms of what you are looking for. That’s when you need to identify your home needs and wants. For exam-
ple, you may want a new home that has a fireplace, but that might be the only item not on your “want list”. When you make the offer to buy, remember that you may be competing with other offers, so make your best offer based on price, terms, and conditions because it’s not always the highest bid that ends up being successful.
When you have found the realtors you want to work with to get your house listed and marketed, you are ready to start the sale of your home. Currently, it is essential to find realtors who embrace technology, as they have many tools at their disposal to get your house sold. By pricing your home at market price, cleaning and decluttering, you can walk through your home and put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. Prior to listing, this is an excellent time to fix what is broken and even replace burned-out lightbulbs or replace fixtures, mirrors, or anything the buyer might want to stay if they
purchase. Find documents that pertain to the house, such as home improvement projects, warranty paperwork, instruction manuals and a list of the ages of the furnace, roof, air conditioning or hot water heater. It is also advisable to have a Real Property Report available, especially if you have made any changes to the yard or outside of the house, such as a deck addition. Getting ready for showings is also essential. Open the windows for natural light, ensure a shovelled walk and have an inviting porch or entryway into the home.
The lawyers, brokers, and bankers will work with your personalized real estate agents, who will keep you organized, communicate with you, and follow up to ensure that you have successfully purchased or sold your home. Tricia and Laurie know that collaborating, communicating, and caring will enable you to enjoy your purchase or sale.
https://foothillsrealestate.c21.ca/
Tricia Rakos Laurie Allan
Real Estate
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Talk to your professional advisor about partnering with Calgary Foundation in your legacy planning.
Learn more at CalgaryFoundation.org
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