GHANAIAN NEWS - AUGUST 2024 by Roots Change

Wesalute2024AwardWinners

28GhanaianCanadianstobehonored inTorontobyGhanaianNews

The21st AnnualGhanaianCanadianAchievement Awards Gala will be held on Saturday September 21st 2024 at Chateau Le Jardin, 4880 Hwy 27, Woodbridge,ON.

The eventdubbed “Tribute toourAchievers” was institutedbythe GhanaianNews torecognize and honor individual Ghanaian Canadians and groups who have excelled or achieved honors in their variousﬁelds.

The29recognitionawardswillbeinthefollowing areas: Professional Excellence, Religion, Cultural Promotion, Community Services, Youth Talent, Sportsetc.

It is expected that hundreds of enthusiastic Ghanaian Community members and well wishers from all over Canada and Ghana will gather on the evening of September21st at thesaid venue to recognizeoutstandingachieversinourcommunity. Dignitaries who will be attending the expected mammoth gathering will include some members of African Diplomatic Corps and representative

from Municipal, Provincial and Federal levels, Community leaders, Cultural Groups, Church membersandthegeneralpublic.

The Ghana High Commissioner to Ghana H.E. Anselm Ranford Sowah will join us inToronto attheAwardsGalaonSaturday.

There will be interlude of African cultural display,liveentertainmentandmusicwithD.J.

RedCarpetInterviews andNetworkingstarting at5p.m.

Amodestfeeof$85perpersonisbeingcharged atthedoor. Blocktablepurchaseof10persons (reserved) per table for $800 is also available on request. The Media with accreditation is cordially invited to attend the presentation on Saturday, September 21st 2024 at Chateau Le Jardin

For further information and to conﬁrm attendance call 416-844-9161 or email toawards@ghanaiannews.ca

EmmanuelAyiku,Toronto,ON

AfricanSafari TropicalMarket -CommunityBusiness

Dr.SetormeA.Tsikata ProfessionalExcellence

GloriaAnima Prempeh CommunityService

Anthony Behome Young Talent Porcia Boateng Community Service Rev. Dr. Alex AgyeDwamena Religion/Outreach

Angelina AsanteNimako CommunityBusiness Evelyn Cobbinah Professional Ecellence

Joana Gyimah CommunityService

George Amoako CommunityBusiness

Prince Ameyaw Kyereh ContemporaryMusic

Stephen Mensah Community Impact

PrinceKwadwo Tawiah(Milo) Media

Eddie TwumasiSmith ProfessionalExcellence

Esther Nana Araba Assabil Community Service

Emmanuel Quaye Jr Community Leadership

Joyce Asabre Professional Excellence

Christiana Nuamah Community Leadership

Rev. Milton Ofei Religion/Outreach

Robert (Bobby J) Micah Community Service EbenezerInkumsah CommunityLeadership

Juliana Arkoh Sports MaryFosu CommunityBusiness Kwaku Nuako Youth Leadership

Irene Duah-Kessie Youth Leadership

Canada’s inﬂation rate fell to two per centlastmonth,ﬁnallyhittingtheBank of Canada’s target after a tumultuous battlewithskyrocketingpricegrowth.

The annual inﬂation rate fell from 2.5 per cent in July to reach the lowest levelsinceFebruary2021.

Statistics Canada’s consumer price index report on Tuesday attributed the slowdown in part to lower gasoline prices.

Clothing and footwear prices also decreased on a month-over-month basis, marking the ﬁrst decline in the monthofAugustsince1971asretailers

oﬀered larger discounts to entice shoppersamidslowingdemand.

The Bank of Canada’s preferred core measures of inﬂation, which strip out volatilityinprices,alsoedgeddownin August.

Themarkedslowdowninpricegrowth lastmonthwassteeperthanthe2.1per cent annual increase forecasters were expecting ahead of Tuesday’s release and will likely spark speculation of a largerinterestratecutnextmonthfrom theBankofCanada.

“Inﬂation remains unthreatening and the Bank of Canada should now focus on trying to stimulate the economy and halting the upward climb in the unemployment rate,” wrote CIBC senioreconomistAndrewGrantham.

Benjamin Reitzes, managing director of Canadian rates and macro strategist at BMO, said Tuesday’s ﬁgures “tilt the scales” slightly in favour of more aggressive cuts, though he noted the Bank of Canada will have one more inﬂation reading before its October rateannouncement.

cont’donpg.7

EDITORIAL

Publisher/Editor

EmmanuelAyiku

ContributingEditor

JoeKingsleyEyiah

DirectorofOperations

ComfortAyiku

CommunityReporter

JonathanAnnobil

OnlineEditor

EbenezerAmankwah

TheGhanaianNews

Publishesnewsandcomments fromtheCommunity,serves GhanaiansacrossCanadawith goodsourceofinformation iscommittedtogivegood communityJournalism

TheGhanaianNews ispublishedinCanadaby TheGhanaianNews Corporation

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Articlesappearinginvarious columnsoftheGhanaian Newsareintendedtogenerate civilandinformedpublic discussions. Youdonothave toagreewithopinionsexpressedbythewriters. That shouldencourageyoutowrite toexpressyourownviews. Thisisthewaywegenerate livelyandcivildiscussionsin thecommunity. Rejoinders arenotforumsforpersonal insultsandwewantreadersto adheretothese principles.

We acknowledge the ﬁnancial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage

EDITORIAL

Let’scelebrate21yearsof recognizingourCommunity Achievers

Twentyfouryearsago,TheGhanaianNews launched a modest effort to recognize, showcase and celebrate the achievements of members in our communities across Canada who have and continue to excel in various discipline and fields of endeavor. This initiative was borne out of the conviction that many members of our community in Canada have been making strenuouseffortsnotonlytoachievelaurels for themselves and their community, but to the development and improvement of Canadiansocietyaswell.

To a very large extent, this innovation has been a great and a splashing success. Over the past Twenty four years we have unearthed and showcased an average of twenty-fivehigh-flyingachieversinvarious fields of endeavor from our community every year. That comes close to nearly Six hundred and seventy five persons to date. This year we will be showcasing close to thirty two more achievers. These Achievement Awards have proven a numberofimportantpoints:First,thereare great talents in our community. Secondly, our community members are not just sitting on these talents; they are utilizing them to achieve results. Thirdly they have proven that our community members are contributing significant efforts to the improvement of Canadiansociety.Against the background of all the misinformation, myths and stereotypes that are bandied around about immigrants and immigrant communities;wearedelightedtonotethat this Events have achieved the purpose for whichtheywereinstituted:showcasingthe best and brightest from our community in thelargerCanadiancontext.

We wish to however to comment on a disturbing aspect of these events in our community: the low involvement and participation of our community members in these awards ceremonies. We have observed over the years that it is the same people who regularly attend these events although the awards recipients may be different every year. We also wish to note theconstantpresenceofalargenumberof mainstream Canadians: from politicians, public servants to Police Officers at these events. If these high-profile people from mainstream Canadian society recognize the importance of this event and regularly showuptosupportus,thenitisincumbent on us as the community organizing this event to embrace it and turn out in our numberstosupportit.

We also depend on community members to nominate the known achievers in our community who are deserving of these awards. We therefore entreat community memberstoconstantlybeonthelookoutfor those that are achieving laurels in various aspects in our community and nominate themfortheawardswhenthetimecomes. We call on community members to turn up to support and applaud our achievers for this year on Saturday September 21st, 2024. They deserve our recognition, our praisesandoursupport.

Finally we extend our heartfelt and warm congratulationstoallourawardrecipients forthisyear.Donotrestonyouroars.Keep pushingtomakeyourself,yourcommunity andournationproud. Weareproudofyou!

TheLifeyouareholdingin yourhandsisyours!

BySarahObeng,Toronto,ON

What is the next chapter of your life? Pause for a minute and ask yourself this important question. It is your life and it is your answer, your choices, and your decisions. So, again I ask, what is the next chapter of your life? In the next three years, if I happen to meet you, what would you be excited to be sharing with me because you are loving the life you’re living? These questions can be conﬁdently answered ifyou’reactivelydesigningyourlife!

No one is doomed to bad luck because of theirskin color, where they were born, who their parents are, circumstances under which they were born, or any such thing. We have to become of aware of this truth to set us free. The people we admire and look upto,orevenpossibly,envy–someof thesepeoplehavehadworsesituations and circumstances than what you have hadorwhatyoumaybegoingthrough right now. However, they overcame andarenowlivingtheirdreamlives!

The breath each one of us is taking is notbyourselves.Noonecanbreatheon their own. However, when the breath Giver gives us the privilege to breathe and live, we have the responsibility to take charge of our lives and co-create an abundant life with Him – a life that makes us live our fullest, truest selves;alifethatservesandtransforms humanityforthebetter.Ihavecometo know that this begins with building a dream for one’s life! You must build a dream for your life! That is the beginningofitall.Ifyoucan’tdreamit then you can’t have it. In other words, ifyoucandreamitthenyoucanhaveit –ifyoudotheworkthatcomeswithit. Build a dream, take steps toward your dream and keep going in the direction of your dream and see your life transform; see yourself in the group at the top where life is abundant and so much better. Many people have used the help of Life Coaches to be able to achievethis,andthisisanideaIhighly recommend.

So, begin it this way – ask yourself, WHAT WOULD I LOVE? If there were no limitations, what would you love? Who would you like to be or become? What would you love to, create? What would you like to have? What would you like to do? Put in as much detail as you possibly can and believe that this is possible – if you’re not able to believe in yourself that this is possible for you, then believe in the One who gives you breathe that this is possible for Him to make it possible foryou.

When I initially heard this, I thought it was impractical, but the key is that thereisthespiritualparttolifethatwe don’t see and are not usually aware of. How the dreams will manifest or materializeforourphysicalexperience isnotuptous–it’suptotheForcewho controlstheuniverse,whoknowsitall and who orchestrates it all. He is able to bring it all together if we’ll dare to believeandtaketheactionsteps.

Oncewe’reabletodreamit–asbigas wecanmakeit be, and move ontothe next stage of taking the initial step or steps toward the dream we have built for our lives, and never stop but keep going in that direction, He orders our steps and coordinates things to work together to make the dream a reality. All of a sudden, the right people are broughtourway,therightdoorsstartto open,thewrongonesbegintocloseand theunneededpeoplebegintofallaway. Peoplehavesaiditcannotbeexplained how it all pulls together and I can say thesamethingtoo.Icansaythatwhen you are ready for your next chapter in life, the correct teachers and helpers begin to show up. The paradigm shift that you make for your next chapter in life causes the path to be made clear for you. It is just amazing you need to experience it to truly understand. I am however, not saying it’s going to be easy or thoroughly smooth sailing but the path will not dim when it starts to shine – the path will get brighter and brighter like the noon day so long as you keep your alignment and keep going.

Many, if not most successful people will tell you that they had a vision for their lives – that whatever they are experiencing and enjoying now was once a dream. They will tell you that on the way to where they are, they fell down and almost gave up not just once, but several times. But that is what separates them from the rest of the people living on the same planet as them. That’s what separates them from the rest of the people breathing the same air as they are. That’s what separates them from the rest of the people who are also given the same amount of time in a day – 24 hours. That’s what separates them from the rest of the people who have one night and one day at a time. That’s what separates them from the rest of the peoplewholiveonedayatatime.

So, think about it;whether you make the best or the worst of it, you will be breathing and living for the next 365 days–solongasthebreathGivergives ittoyou.Whatwillyoudowiththatlife? Willyouleaveittochance,orwillyou write your story with His help and not let anyone else hold the pen. Opinions arecheapandeveryonehas anopinion or two. Will you let others’ opinions run your life? Or will you start taking chargeoryourownopinionsandtruths about your life, shift your mindset and start living the better version of yourself – starting today! Keep in mind, your past, whether good or bad, doesn’t determine your future. Your currentchoices,decisions,perceptions, and actions, are what will propel you into the next chapters of your life. Get the pen and start writing your story. Dream,orreviewyourdreamandstart living a more optimal life because you deserve it, because you are worthy of it, and you will fulﬁll your dreams if youwilldaretodreamandpursueit.

ByGiftyAnnobil,Toronto,ON

Modern technology has been developing at a sometimes alarming rate and at times has been outpacing our brains’ capacity to adapt to it in healthy ways. It also has aﬀected our interpersonal relationships and emotional well-being. Social media and apps can be marvelous tools for bringing people together; just think of the Arab Spring uprisings and the various uses of Zoom during the Covid-19 Pandemic. However, these same tools, which were created innocently so that we could be world, have also led to the massive spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories, let alone the public shaming ofofteninnocentvictims.

The anonymity that the Internet provides,allowsuserstolettheirinner demons out and attack others without consequences. A brief glance at any page’s comments section will serve to show just how ugly and judgmental somepeoplecanbe.

MicrowareLove

An entire generation has now been born and raised to adulthood without necessarily acquiring basic interpersonal and relationship skills. Thoseofuswhoareoldermaylikewise be losing some of these skills which we developed before the advent of the Internet. Has anybody with a smart phonenotfeltaslavetoitattimes?

Do you remember a time when you couldjustbealoneandnotbeabletobe reached24/7?Haveyoueverpanicked when you’ve lost your phone? Can yourememberatimewhenyouwaited in line at the Post Oﬃce and didn’t while the time away scrolling through text messages or social media? What happensifthegridevergoesdown?

Thisrapidshiftintechnologyhaseven aﬀected our romantic relationships. Love is now mediated through electronic devices. We are slowly giving up our agency and, perhaps, losing a little bit of what makes us

human. Not very long ago, people would often meet their romantic partners through other people. The personwithwhomyoufellinlovewas often a friend of a friend, a co-worker, or a classmate. Oftentimes this person was someone who was recommended toyoubyfriendsorfamily.

While this is still sometimes the case, people seem to be increasingly using dating and other apps to look for love. (Andthisdoesn’teventakeintoaccount porn, which takes the human equation entirely out of the most intimate of human acts and creates unrealistic and sometimesdangerousexpectations.

A case in point: an acquaintance of mine found himself unexpectedly divorced after 28 years of marriage. The times had changed. A friend told him that dating now, especially for people his age, was done online. He reluctantly tried it. “I hated it,” he told

me, “It was like picking out a shirt on Amazon. And just as is the case with picking out a shirt on Amazon, the ‘product’may arrive in the wrong size or color or not as advertised. People onlyputtheiridealizedselvesonsocial media. No one is going to upload a photo of him- or herself on their worst day, or admit that they are a slob, or racist, or whatever. It’s dehumanizing. Igaveitup.”headded

Whatdoesthis“microwavelove”mean forthefutureofromance?Willwelose our skills to interact, charm, seduce, talk,andﬂirtwithotherpeoplewithout swiping left or swiping right? It’s hard toenvisionwhatnewtechnologyisjust over the horizonorhowitmightaﬀect our love-lives further. Regardless, we may want to reconsider honing our basic, human, interpersonal skills so we don’t ever forget them. We might needthemifweloseourphones

8SimpleWaysToBumpUpYourMotivation

BySarahObeng,Toronto,ON

Hello,again, myfriend.I hopeyouare doingwell and livingwith anattitude of gratitude! Even if you’re not following the news, you have deﬁnitely heard of what’sgoing on inour world right today. If you arestill here and canmove and have your being, itis disastrous tolive with an attitude of complaints instead of an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful and thankful for who you are and what you have!

Meanwhile, regardless of what’s going on in our world right now, life still goes on if you are still in this life. People are living their dreams and living their purpose.Areyou?Ifyouarenotyet,itisnottoolatetoredeemthetimeandstart doing something meaningful or more meaningful with this precious life we all havebeengiven.

However, when we start doing something great or great things, it is inevitable we will encounter obstacles or hurdles. The more hurdles we face, the more challengingitistokeepourmotivationathighlevels.Insuchtimes,weallneed to do out best and keep going. However, we also need practical ways to power orgrowthandmotivationengine.Hereareeightpracticallysimplewaystosuper chargeourmotivation.

‘Callsfora50basis-pointcut willonlygrowlouder:’Canada’s inﬂationratehits2%

cont’dfrompg.5

“If we get another big downside surprise, calls for a 50 basis-point cut will only grow louder,” wrote Reitzes inaclientnote.

The central bank began rapidly hiking interestratesinMarch2022inresponse torunawayinﬂation,whichpeakedata whopping8.1percentthatsummer.

The central bank increased its key lending rate to ﬁve per cent and held it atthat level until June 2024, when it delivereditsﬁrstratecutinfouryears.

A combination of recovered global supply chains and high interest rates have helped cool price growth in Canadaandaroundtheworld.

BankofCanadagovernorTiﬀMacklem recently signalled that the central bank is ready to increase the size of its interest rate cuts, if inﬂation or the economyslowbymorethanexpected.

Its key lending rate currently stands at 4.25percent.

CIBC is forecasting the central bank will cut its key rate by two percentage points between now and the middle of nextyear.

The U.S. Federal Reserve is also expected on Wednesday to deliver its ﬁrstinterestratecutinfouryears.

TheCanadianPress

Constantly remember your reason for starting or your purpose. There is a reason we start the projects or ventures or undertakings that we start. Why did you start pursuing the dream or goal in the ﬁrst place? What is the big purpose that motivated you to embark on the journey? Maybe it is more time with the family. Or for a better future for the family. Or a better future for yourself. Or moremoney.OrmoretimewithGod.Tokeepusmotivated,wemustasoftenas wecan,rememberthereasonforwhichwestartedthatdreamorgoalandproject tohelpusgoing.

Focus onthe things we can control. It is obvious, it is not everything we have controlover.Themoreyoufocusonthingsoutofyourcontrol,thelessmotivated youwillfeel.Whenwefocusonthings,wehavecontrolover,wecaneasilyand quicklychangeoursituationsforthebetter.Onedayatatimeandtomorrowhas its own trouble and will take care of itself. Let us not waste time and energy on things that are beyond us and out of our control such as other people’s attitude andnaturalsituations.

Actfirst.Feellater.Sometimeswesimplydonotfeellikedoingthings;orgoing towork;oreatinghealthy;ordoingthecorrectorrightthingweKNOWwemust do.One of the bestways togetyou motivated is tosimplytake that goodaction youknowyoushouldtakeandkeepyourattentionofffeelingornotfeeling.Ifit isexercisingtolosethatweight,goforeventhatten-minutewalk.Ifitisreadinga book,simplyreadforfiveminutes.Itiscommonformotivationtofollowaction, sostopwaitingformotivationbeforeyoutakeaction.Onceyoutakethefirststep orafewsteps,youwillfeelmotivatedtokeepgoing.

Break your big goals into smaller goals. Depending on your ability to focus, it might be necessary to break up the goal into smaller chunks that last between twoweeksto8weeks.Thiswayyourbraincanexperiencesuccessandlogically seeapositivelong-termoutcome.Thiswillalsocurbprocrastination,becauseas humans,wetendtoprocrastinateifthepathlookslooklongandchallenging.So trybreakingbiggergoalsintosmaller,moremanageableones.

Remember, at the end of the day, no one is going to be doing your life for you. The life you are holding in your hands is yours! Live it and God is with you to helpyouandsupportyou.

‘It’s

Premier Doug Ford is defending his government’s decision to accelerate the rollout of alcohol sales in Ontario convenience stores by a year— a deal that could see taxpayers shelling out up to $225 million toTheBeerStore.

Ford made the comments during an unrelated press conferenceinWindsoronMondayafternoon.

It comes after Ontario’s Financial Accountability Oﬃce(FAO)saiditwouldlookintothedecision.

“Ithinkit’sagreatdeal,”Fordsaid.

The province announced back in May that while an exclusive deal with The Beer Store was set to expire in 2025, they had made arrangements so that convenience stores could start selling alcohol a year earlier.Aspartofthatdeal,thegovernmentagreedto reimburse the conglomerate up to $225 million.The province said the payment was to help secure jobs andsmooththetransition.

Ford said at the time that the money was all “going to the front line people” and not into the pockets of thebrewers.

Howeveroppositionpartieswereunconvinced.They slammed the deal, saying that money was sorely needed elsewhere, and there was no rush to expand alcoholsales.

Inastatement Mondaymorning,theOntarioLiberal Partysaidthattheprovince’sFinancialAccountability Oﬃcehasdecidedtolaunchaninvestigationintothe decisioninresponsetoarequestfromtheparty.

“Ontario’s Liberals call on the Ford government to cooperatefullywiththisinvestigationandensurethe FAO receives the information he needs to complete his work,” Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie saidinastatement.

Speaking Monday, Ford slammed Crombie’s move toasktheFAOtoinvestigate.

“Bonnie Crombie has made it abundantly clear that she wants to add tens of millions of dollars of cost on the backs of the people, because they’re going to payforit,”Fordsaid.“Shedoesn’tbelieveinputting beer and wine in corner stores and she just wants to add to the costs of a bottle of beer, a bottle of wine, somecoolers.”

The Ontario Green Party also welcomed the investigation.

“Ontarians want a government that invests in housing, healthcare and other everyday needs. But instead, we have one that’s giving hundreds of millions of dollars to the Beer Store to get alcohol into corner stores a year early,” Ontario Green Party LeaderMikeSchreinersaid.“Thisgovernmentisout oftouch,andwedeservetoknowexactlyhowmuch it’scostingus.”

In a statement, Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy’s oﬃcesaid the provincial government isdeliveringonapromise“withthelargestexpansion of consumer choice and convenience in provincial alcoholsalesinnearlycentury.”

The statement said that revenues which ﬂow to

Family,Friends,Community

relyonwhenitcomestoyour insuranceandﬁnancialplanningneeds

the government through the LCBO will continue to be strong, despite the expansion to other retail locations. It pointed out that the LCBO will become the exclusive wholesaler for all retail, bars and restaurantssellingalcoholstartingin2026.

“History has shown that LCBO revenues have continuedtogrow,yearoveryear,evenassuccessive governments have expanded alcohol sales to new retail stores and allowed bars and restaurants to sell alcohol with take-out and delivery,” the statement read.“AsLCBOassumesthisexpandedwholesaling role,weareconﬁdentthoserevenueswillgrowabove currentlevels.”

The statement did not address the decision to accelerate the move through a deal with The Beer Store.

The Financial Accountability Oﬃce provides independent ﬁnancial and economic analysis to the Ontariolegislature.

The report is expected to be complete in early 2025. However, it could be hampered if there’s not proper accesstoinformation,theFAOwarned.

Alcohol sales rolled out in corner stores around the provinceonSept.5.

Theexpansionofavailabilityhasalsobeencriticized by health and addiction experts who say increased availabilityiscorrelatedwithincreasedconsumption andhealthrisks.

CP24.com

AssomeOntarioplantshitthebrakes,areCanada’sEVambitions underthreat?

The plant was expected to produce batteries for a millionelectricvehiclesayear.Onceupandrunning, itwassupposedtocreatehundredsofpermanentjobs inasmallsoutheasternOntariomunicipality.

It was, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at the time, “big news” that Belgium-based Umicore chose Loyalist Township for its battery component production facility — evidence, the federal and provincial governments said, of success in the quest to make Canada a global electric-vehicle production hotspot.

But two years later, spending on the construction of the Umicore plant has been delayed in what the company calls a “signiﬁcant worsening of the EV marketcontext.”

It’s not the only EV project facing delays, despite billions in public subsidies on oﬀer. Trudeau’s Liberal government, which promised to end the sale of gas vehicles by 2035, is getting long in the tooth, and consumer demand is slowing amid political uncertainty.

Experts suggest these are the growing pains of an industry that needs more time to develop. But that’s

notmuchcomforttothemayorofLoyalistTownship, hometosome18,000peoplenearKingston,Ont.

“Itwasaveryconcerningannouncementfortheentire community,” Jim Hegadorn said in an interview at the local town hall, after Umicore said in late July it would delay spending on the construction of its facility.

The plant was previously expected to begin productionin2026andcreatearound600jobs.Some construction work, such as pouring concrete and installing pipes, has already been done, Hegadorn said, and the company has made promises to fulﬁl existingconstructioncontracts.

The mayor said he hopes Umicore factors in Canadians’“strong desire” to shift toward EVs as it decidesontheplant’sfuture.

“Realdecisionsneedtobemadeonthepredictionof (what will be needed) ﬁve years from now, 10 years and20yearsfromnow,”hesaid.

In a recent statement, Umicore said customers’ demand projections for its battery materials “have steeply declined recently,” and the future of the plant will be informed by a comprehensive review

of company operations in Asia, Europe and North America.

Hegadorncalledthereviewa“positive”step,hoping theoutcomewouldrevitalizetheprojectinhishome town.

Ottawa and the provinces have been betting big that shoring up Canadian supply chains is important to thecountry’seconomicfuture.

Since October 2020, 13 companies have announced a combined investment of $46.1 billion in EVrelated projects in Canada, with governments pledging to provide $52.5 billion worth of support via construction and production subsidies, and tax credits,accordingtoanestimatebytheparliamentary budgetoﬃcer.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has regularly touted his province’s planto create an“end-to-end” EVsupply chain that also prioritizes mining critical minerals crucialtobatteryproduction.

But Umicore is not the only ﬁrm to hit the brakes, even though nearly $1 billion worth of its own subsidiesareontheline.

Ford Motors Co. has opted to delay its production of electric SUVs at an Oakville, Ont., assembly plant from next year to 2027. The American automaker now says it will produce 100,000 gaspoweredSuperDutytrucks at the plant, starting in 2026.

Spokesperson Said Deep explained that the decision meansCanadianemployees will return to work at the plant earlier than expected and help meet demand for the pickup trucks. He said the company is still committedtoEVs.

The production of zeroemission vehicles, tied to a $1.8-billion investment attheOakvilleplant,could net the company some $590millioninsubsidies.

GreigMordue,anassociate professor of engineering and the chair of advanced manufacturing policy at McMaster University, said he expects the Canadian industry to start being productive, but much later than was originally advertised.

“The one good thing,” he said, is that most of the publicspendingisattached toproduction.

ManyCanadianconsumers aren’tyetreadytotransition to electric vehicles due to concerns that include range anxiety, lack of charging infrastructure and aﬀordability,hesaid.

He added that manufacturers outside China have struggled to build electric vehicles for pricespeoplecanpay.

FOCUS

TeachersCelebratedEveryYear-AreourGovernmentsgivingTeachers whatisneededtodeliverQualityEducationintheClassroom?

AskJoeKingsleyEyiah,Educationist/SocialCommentator

Soon it will be October, 2024 and October 5, every year is celebrated the world over as World Teachers’ Day. The day was instituted by the United Nations (UN) to celebrate the role teachers play in providing quality education at all levels. This enables children and adults of all ages to learn to take part in and contribute to their local community and global society. Education is the key to development everywhere and teachers’ role in education is very crucial and, must be respected and honored everywhere. Unfortunately, many governments around the world including my motherland Ghana and home province Ontariojustpaylipservicestoteachers. Politicians with their self-conceited ideologies are the most guilty ones here.

In Ghana, for example, teachers have been struggling to get their due share of the national cake from the Ghana government. Teachers are denied what will help them to deliver quality education in our schools. During last year’s celebration of Teachers’ Day at Akosombo in the eastern region of Ghana, the former Vice-Dean of Students’ Co-ordinator, Director of Research, Innovation, and

Development of the University of Education, Winneba, Dr. Philip Siaw Kissi advocated the government to pay books and research allowances to teachers in Junior and Senior High Schools

Oﬀering reasons for his call on the government to give allowances to teachers,theeducationistexplainedthat researchwasvitalexercisethatenables teacherstoacquirenewknowledgeand develop new understandings relating toteachingandlearningofthesubject.

“Theeducatorsbeneﬁtthroughvarious

Overcomingthechallengeoffeeling Un-Lovedandrejectedinyour relationships

ByRev.Dr.Kisseadoo,USA

LearnToForgive

Mistakes,offences,disappointments, andsurprisesarecharacteristicinany relationship.Anyonewhoisnotreadyto acceptanddealwiththemeffectivelywillbe apoorlover,companion,familymember,or friend.Trueknowledgeofthepersonyou aredealingorlivingwith,resultingfrom open-heartedfrequentcommunication, willalwaysenableyoutoexcusetheone, givebenefitofthedoubt,andespecially understandyourpartnerorfriend,forgive ordealwiththeparticularissueeffectively inyourmindandheart,talkmattersover, continuetobelieveeachother,andmove alongprogressivelywithincreasinglovein therelationship.Forgivenessisacontract yousignwithGodinprayerto“forgive theoneasChristforgaveyou”(Ephesians 4:32).Itdoesnotmeanthatwhenyou laterseethepersonyouwillsuddenlyfeel abundantloveinyourheartforhimorher. Youneedtoallowthecircumstancesto breakandhumbleyoubeforeGod,asyou thoughtfullyapplywisdomtotakeallthe possiblephysicalstepstoassuretheone ofyourforgiveness,releasetheperson fromtheguiltoftheoffence,andgradually buildloveandtrustagain.Godhasalready warnedusthatun-forgivenesswillalways hindertheanswerstoourprayers,and preventGodfromforgivingouroffences againstHim(Mathew6:14,15;Mark 11:26).

DetermineToBeAConsistentTrue Lover

Ifyouwantpeopletoloveyou,thenmake everyeﬀorttogivelove(ﬁrst)andlearn alsotoacceptlovefromothers,andbea

goodsteward(manager)oflove.Letyour loveandacceptancebecomefaithfuland consistent.Youcandosobydependingon God’spowerthroughprayerandobedience toGod’sword,constantforgiveness,and meaningfulactsoflove.

InmybookTheFundamentalAndSpecial NeedsofMenandWomen,Istatedthatin myopinion,thereareﬁveprimaryfactors thatdeﬁneyourloveforsomeone.You mustlookoutfortheperson’s:

a)Welfare---whatpromotestheperson’s prosperityandprogressinlife.b)Needs ---whatisnecessaryfortheonetolive normallifeasamanorwomanina particularcapacity,inorderfortheperson togrowtofullmaturity.c)Interests--whatdelightstheperson,whatheorshe engagesintogainsatisfaction,whatmakes theonehappy,andwhatprovidesjoyfor theindividualaccordingtotheperson’s personaltraitsandnaturalmake-up.d) Rights---theimportantthingsthatsociety ortheinstitutioninquestion(e.g.marriage) requiresthatthepersonobtainsforhimself orherselfwithoutdenial.e)Opinions--thesincereideas,concepts,suggestions, andinputsofthepersontowardsthe progressofallofyouintherelationship.

LearnToAcceptPeople

Ifyoudonottrainyourselftomakeroomin yourhearttoacceptpeople,thenitwillbe diﬃcultforpeopletoacceptyou,because theywillalsosensethatyoudonotaccept them,andtheywillthereforeﬁndithard toacceptyou.Theheartofmanhasadoor thatyoucanopenorclose.Paultoldthe

types of research as it helps them in having a better understanding of the subject. The new knowledge further helps in improving the educational practices of teachers and professors,” heemphasized.

The former Vice-Dean of Students recalled that a previous government mortgage policy that enabled teachers to acquire homes through loans. He then questioned the basis for the discontinuation of the policy which has made acquiring homes by teachers diﬃcult.

This year, the government of Ghana has planned a huge National Teacher Day in Kumasi which very attractive prizes from houses to cars to money for the best teachers at all levels of education in Ghana. Very attractive! The the big question here is that: WHAT BIG INVESTMENT IS THE GOVERNMENT ALSO MAKING IN THE CLASSROOMS ACROSS THE COUNTRY TO

ASSIST THE TEACHER TO DELIVERACCEPTABLE QUALITY EDUCATION IN OUR SCHOOLS?

Afterall, not all teachers will be given those attractive awards for excellence during this year’s National Teachers Day.Justthinkingaloud!

Also, the Ontario government in Canada has been very confrontational to teachers unions in the province which have been demanding quality public education from the government through adequate funding of public educationintheprovince.

The celebration of World Teachers’ Day is among other reasons to reﬂect on the support teachers need to fully deploytheirtalentandvocation,andto rethink ways ahead for the profession intransformingeducationintheworld. Itisthereforecrucialtohonorteachers throughout the world by supporting them‘intruthandinspirit’tobeableto dotheirworkwellintheinterestofour children, especially those who attend publicschools.

AssomeOntarioplantshit thebrakes,areCanada’sEV ambitionsunderthreat?

cont’dfrompg.9

“Consumers aren’t as interested as the most optimistic prognosticators forecast two, three, ﬁve years ago,” he said.

A study published by J.D. Power, a company tracking consumer data, reportedinMaythatsigniﬁcantlyfewer Canadians said they were considering buyinganelectricvehicle.

Only 11 per cent of just under 3,000 Canadian shoppers said they were stronglyconsideringbuyinganelectric vehicle,whichwaslessthanhalfofthe 24 per cent of U.S. respondents who expressedstronginterest.

More Canadians said they are very or somewhat unlikely to consider an EV for their next purchase, the study suggests.Thepercentagewentfrom53 of respondents in 2022 to 67 per cent lastyearand72percentthisyear.

“We’re still selling more,” said Robert Karwel, the director of J.D. Power’s customer success and data analytics division. “The rate of growth in the curve for EVs as they penetrate the marketplacehassloweddown,butitis stillgrowing.”

But Brendan Sweeney, the managing director of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, said there’s still a long way to go before the Canadian market can meet Ottawa’s goal of ending the sale of gas guzzlers by2035.

“Thisispartofour10-,15-and20-year transition that we’re, like, two years andthreeyearsintonow,”hesaid.

In the global race for EV supremacy, he said, “doing nothing wasnota very goodoption.”Still,Sweeneyspeculated that many companies are stalling their projectsforpoliticalreasons.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who is polling far ahead of Trudeau, has not speciﬁed his approach to EV subsidies.Afederalelectionisslatedto happenbyOctober2025.

Trudeau has dubbed the investments a “strategic decision” on a “nascent industry.”

“We are making the right bet on the future,”hesaidatanewsconferencein Napanee,Ont.,thissummer.

Loyalist resident Scotty Schembrisaid heneedsthatgambletostartpayingoﬀ soon.

He said his father, an electrician, works about a seven-hour drive away in Windsor, Ont., and is only able to visit his family once every two weeks. Those jobs at Umicore could bring his dadhome,Schembrisaid,butheisnot holdinghisbreath.

“I feel like most (of the) time they delay it,” he said of the promise that an electric-vehicle boom could bring morejobstothecommunity.“Itisalot longerthanwhattheysay.”

TheCanadianPress

Ghanabecomes 2nd country in Africa to get a Knowledge and Skills portal

Ghana has become the second countryinAfricatogetaKnowledge and Skills portal that grants access to over 5 million online library archives, learning resources and tools.

TheportalwaslaunchedonSeptember 17, 2024, in Accra by the Education andCommunicationsMinistries.

Impomtuo Technologies, a wholly Ghanaian-owned company built the portal with support from Telecommunication giant MTN and fundingfromtheWorldBank.

Speaking at the launch, the Communications Minister, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful expressed her excitement at the platform that will allow studentsof all classesof schools to access knowledge everywhere they are.

She indicated that the platform was builtandfedwithinformationwhichis inlinewiththeapprovedcurriculum.

She said only Egypt has a similar platform adding that ours has AI integrated with other features and will bethebestinAfrica.

Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Adutwum

The Minister expressed her optimism that the platform will aﬀord students the opportunity to equip themselves with all the information they need to excelinthedigitalage.

The inclusion of TVET courses and modules she said is a great addition as itwillhelpbuildtheskillsofTechnical students.

The platform she Indicated will serve as a marketing platform for Ghanaian publishers who she says will be given theopportunitytouploadsoftcopiesof theirworktobesoldatafee.

On his part, Education Minister, Dr Yaw Adutwum indicated that there is transformations going on in the Educationsector.

He could not fathom why politicians will mount podiums to say Ghana’s education system is deteriorating considering the change being experiencedinthesector.

The Knowledge and Skills portal can be accessed at www.gksb.gov.gh. Pulse.com.gh

UrsulaOwusu-Ekuful

IMMIGRATIONANDSOCIALISSUES

By:JamesA.Kwaateng, B.A. (Hons), LLB (Hons)

Non-possessionofaValidPermanentResidentCardisnotnecessarily lossofPermanentResidentStatus

Pursuant to section 27 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act of Canada (IRPA), a permanent resident has the right to enter and remain in Canada, subject to the provisions of the Act. A permanent resident (PR) card is a document that proves someone is a permanent resident and it establishes one’s right to enter Canada at a Canadian port-ofentry. The permanent resident card is usually issued for a ﬁve-year period. A person’s permanent resident status is not necessarily rendered invalid by expiration of the person’s permanent resident card. However, at any given point in time, a permanent resident is supposedtodemonstratethat heorshe hasmetthe730-dayrequirementinthe pastﬁveyears.

A residency determination can be triggeredanytimesomeoneseekstorerenterCanadaasapermanentresident.

Section 70(1)(b) of the Immigration Regulationsrequiresthataprospective permanent resident satisfy the oﬃcer that he or she is coming to Canada to establishpermanentresidence.Section 28 of IRPA requires a permanent resident to comply with the residency obligation by demonstrating that

for a total of at least 730 days in the preceding ﬁve-year period, they were physicallypresentinCanada.

The same section 28 of IRPA oﬀers exceptions. If the permanent resident is outside Canada accompanying a Canadiancitizenwhoistheirspouseor common-lawpartneror,inthecaseofa child,accompanyingtheirparent,there could be some ﬂexibility regarding compliance with the residency requirement. This however does not apply to a parent residing outside Canada with his or her child who is a Canadian citizen. Also, if a Canadian permanent resident is outside Canada

employed full-time by a Canadian business or in the federal public administration or the public service of a province, the regulations regarding residency requirements could be relaxed.Thelossofpermanentresident status is viewed with seriousness. The permanent resident is therefore given every opportunity to demonstrate his inability to meet the requirements of section28isnotadeliberateact.

A permanent resident who is outside Canada accompanying a permanent residentwhoistheirspouseorcommonlaw partner or, in the case of a child, their parent and who is employed on a full-time basis by a Canadian business or in the federal public administration or the public service of a province could also fall within the exception despite the fact the person they are accompanyingisapermanentresident. But again, this does not cover a parent livingoutsidewithhisorherchildwho isapermanentresident.

Aperson applying for citizenship does not necessarily have to possess a valid permanent resident card. The person should simply meet the requirements of section 28 of IRPA. There is a general mistaken assumption that the validity of Permanent Resident Card determines the validity of Permanent Resident status itself. The fact of the matter is one can be a permanent resident of Canada without a having a valid permanent resident card. Permanentresident status in Canada is notdependentonpossession of avalid permanentresidentcard.

A permanent resident card however cannot be issued to someone who has

lost his permanent resident status. Permanentresidentstatuscanbelostin one the ways set out in s.46 (1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). This section of the Act, states, among other things, that one loses his permanent resident status the moment he becomes a Canadian citizen. It also states that the status is lost on a ﬁnal determination of a decision made outside of Canada that they have failed to comply with the residency obligation under section 28 oftheAct.Thesectionindicatesfurther that permanent resident status is lost when a removal order made against the permanent resident comes into forceandisalsolostonapprovalbyan oﬃcerofone’sapplicationtorenounce theirpermanentresidentstatus.

Theexpiryofone’spermanentresident card or non-possession of one, per se, does not necessarily impact one’s permanent resident status negatively just as non-possession of a national passport does not aﬀect one’s citizenship. Losing your permanent resident status does not happen as automatically as many people think but once it is lost, you cannot have a permanentresidentcard.

James A. Kwaateng is an Immigration Law Practitioner who has his oﬃces located at 168A Oakdale Road, Suite 4, Toronto, Ontario. For a thorough discussion of your immigration and associated legal issues, you may contacthimattelephonenumber(416) 743-2758foranappointment.

Mortgagerulechangeswillhelp sparkdemand,butsupplyis‘core’ issue:economist

One expert predicts Ottawa’s changes to mortgage rules will help spur demand among potential homebuyers but says policies aimed at driving new supply are needed to address the “core issues”facingthemarket.

The federal government’s changes, set to come into force mid-December, include a higher price cap for insured mortgages to allow more people to qualifyfora mortgage with less thana 20percentdownpayment.

The government will also expand its 30-year mortgage amortization to include ﬁrst-time homebuyers buying any type of home, as well as anybody buyinganewlybuilthome.

CIBC Capital Markets deputy chief economist Benjamin Tal calls it a “signiﬁcant” move likely to accelerate the recovery of the housing market, a process already underway as interest rateshavebeguntofall.

However, he says in a note that policymakers should aim to “prevent that from becoming too much of a good thing” through policies geared towardthesupplyside.

Tal says the main issue is the lack of supplyavailabletorespondtoCanada’s rapidly increasing population, particularlyinmajorcities.

TrudeaulosesanotherLiberalstrongholdinBlocQuébécois byelectionvictory

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has suﬀeredanotherdevastatingbyelection blow with the loss of a second Liberal stronghold, this one to the Bloc Québécois in LaSalle—Émard— Verdun.

VoterswenttothepollsMondayinthe MontrealridingaswellasinWinnipeg’s Elmwood—Transcona,wheretheNDP retaineditslong-heldseatafteratough raceagainsttheConservatives.

Trudeau already faced calls from party faithful to resign as leader after unexpectedly losing Toronto— St. Paul’s to the Conservatives in a byelectionthispastJune.

Longtime Liberal supporter and strategist Andrew Perez called this new loss “yet another nail in Justin Trudeau’scoﬃn.”

While byelections aren’t usually credited with much signiﬁcance on Parliament Hill, the votes in Winnipeg and Montreal were viewed as bellwethers of the political shifts happeninginCanada.

“If Trudeau’s Liberals can’t hold this safe seat, it will spell even bigger trouble for the party’s prospects in Quebec andacrossCanadaina critical electionyear,”Perezsaidinastatement beforetheﬁnalvote.

BlocQuébécoissupportersinMontreal shouted and jumped up and down so hard the ﬂoor shook at news of their

victory,somewithQuebecﬂagsdraped aroundtheirshoulders.

The Bloc was locked in a tight threeway race with the Liberals and the NDP right up until the ﬁnal poll was reported.

“Wearehereandweworkhardbecause we believe in the interests of Quebec and we believe in independence,” the Bloc candidate Louis-Philippe Sauvé said before the ﬁnal votes were counted.

ElectionsCanadareportedall187polls early Tuesday, showing the Bloc won the seat just 248 votes ahead of the Liberals.

The Montreal seat opened up when former justice minister David Lametti leftpolitics.

Liberal ministers visited the area several times as the party worked hard to keep the riding it has held for decades.

The Bloc’s deputy House leader Christine Normandin said no one would have expected the Bloc to do wellinthelongtimeLiberalstronghold atthestartofthecampaign.

“Any way the campaign would have gone, we could only win, we had nothing to lose,” she said before the resultswerein.

“Seeing tonight that it is a tight race, initselfforus,it’sawin.Anditshows that there is support for what the Bloc doesandtheissuesthatwe’rebringing totheHouseofCommons.”

The NDP also took heart from the tightrace.TheNewDemocratsarenot usually a contender in the Montreal riding of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun, but their candidate, Craig Sauvé, jockeyed back and forth for ﬁrst place withtheLiberalsandBlocallnight.

“IftheNDPiscompetitiveinMontreal we’re going to win seats in Montreal, we’regoingtohavegreatcandidatesin Montreal, and Montrealers are going to see more NDP MPs at the next election,” Sauvé told his supporters earlierinthenight.

Montrealer Graham Juneau said that despite all the campaigning, he and many of his friends are “relatively disengaged.”

Heoptedto votefor no one,to make a pointabout“alackofconﬁdenceinthe politicalestablishmentinCanada.”

“Atleastamongstmypeers,therehasn’t been a groundswell of enthusiasm for anyoftheparticularparties,”hesaid.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is keen to leapfrog the Liberals and position himself as the only viable, progressive alternative to Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives.

He and his candidate, Leila Dance, managedtofendoﬀtheConservatives’ aggressivecampaigninWinnipeg.

Political watchers had a keen eye on the results to see if the Tories could sway traditional NDP voters on issues relatedtolabourandaﬀordability.

The NDP won the night with 48.1 per cent of the vote. But Conservative candidate Colin Reynolds managed to growtheTories’shareofthevotefrom 28percentinthe2021generalelection to44percentinMonday’sbyelection.

With several polls still to be counted, Reynolds conceded defeatand told his volunteersthattheyshouldbeproudof what the Conservatives accomplished inthecampaign.

Singh took a political gamble on signing apactwithTrudeau in 2022 to prevent an early election in exchange forprogressonNDPpriorities.

While that deal has yielded a national dental care program, legislation to ban replacement workers and a bill that would underpin a future pharmacare program, the results haven’t translated togainsinthenationalpolls.

Singhpulledoutofthatdealjustweeks ago in a bid to distance his party from the Liberals and try to make the next election a two-way race between himselfandPoilievre.

TheCanadianPress

GhanaianWomen’sPrayer Conference

October14th2024

(Monday,ThanksgivingHoliday) Contact:416-877-3077,416-904-0148,647-768-8579,416-558-8593,647-878-0905,416-882-5186,416-820-9522, 647-654-5570,647-300-6469, 647-892-9212,905-488-9763,647-718-4819

TIME: 9a.m.-12noon

Every Dollar Count! How to Reduce Taxes within Canada Graduated Tax System

By:EddieTwumasi-Smith,(P.Eng,PMP,CPA,MBA)

Canada’s personal income tax system features a built-in fairness system in the form of graduated rates of tax.

As your taxable income increases, the percentage of tax you pay also increases. In other words, income that falls into a higher tax bracket is more heavily taxed than income that falls into a lower tax bracket. Diﬀerent tax rates at diﬀerent income levels results in marginal tax brackets. Knowing your marginal tax bracket means that youwillbeabletocalculatehowmuch will be paid to the federal government in taxes from each additional dollar of taxableincomeyouearn.

Understandingtheconceptonmarginal tax brackets is essential for successful family income planning, in particular income splitting. For example, if the primary earner in the family is in a 45.0% tax bracket and can transfer income to a family member who is in a 25.0% bracket the family will save 20.0% for every dollar of taxable income transferred, provided that the lowerincomeearnerdoesnotmoveup intothenexttaxbracket.

Also, the marginal brackets also tell us how much we will save if we incur costs that are tax deductible. If your marginaltax bracket is 45.0% and you can deduct $1.00 from that taxable income,youwillsave45centsintaxes. This 45.0 cents savings means that the actual after-tax cost of spending that tax-deductible dollar is 55.0 cents. Because of marginal tax brackets,taxdeductible expenditures are more valuabletohighincometaxpayersthan tolowerincometaxpayers.

WithinCanada’sgraduatedtaxsystem, the more income you earn, the more taxyoupay.

Income splitting is the strategy of redistributing income within a family – usually from a spouse in a higher tax bracket to a spouse in a lower tax bracket – to reduce a family’s overall taxbill.

Ingeneral,incomesplittingworksbest when one spouse earns signiﬁcantly more income than the other, so the tax savingsaremoresigniﬁcant.

Attributionrules

Income splitting isn’t as simple as having the higher-income earner gift investments or investment money to the lower-income earner. The CRA has attribution rules that require individuals to declare income sources, including any income made from investments with savings or capital. As such, any income generated from a gifted investment would be attributed back to the high earner and taxed at a higherrate.

Fortunately, there are some exceptions to these rules. Below we outline four income-splittingstrategiesyoucanuse to pay less tax as a family and grow yourwealth.

Strategy#1:IncomeSplitviapension income

If you’re 65 years or older, you can split up to 50% of eligible pension

income with your spouse or commonlawpartner.

Ifyoubothhaveeligibleincome,you’ll will first need to decide who transfers the money – usually, it’s transferred from the higher-income spouse to the lower-income spouse. Then, you will need to fill out the Joint Election to SplitPensionIncomeformwhenfiling yourpersonaltaxreturns.

Pension income eligible for splitting includes:

 Lifetime annuity payments underaregisteredpensionplan

 RRSPs

 Deferredproﬁt-sharingplan

 Payments from a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF)

Pension-sharing income does not include Old Age Security benefits, Canada Pension Plan benefits, Death benefits, retiring allowances, excess amounts from an RRIF transferred to an RRSP, another RRIF or annuity, Specific income as reported on your T4RSP slips, Amounts distributed from a retirement compensation arrangementonyourT4A-RCAslip

As a reminder, you must be over 65 to make RRIF withdrawals. If you are undertheageof65,thepensionincome you are eligible to split is further limited (often only eligible in the case ofthedeathofaspouseorpartner).

Advantages

 Lower taxable income: If you and your spouse are in different tax brackets at retirement, income-splitting couldlowertheoveralltaxbill for your family. This could be very beneficial if you receive income from investments, rental properties, etc., along with government pension benefits.

 Ease of set up: To set this up, you just ﬁll out the Joint Election to Split Pension Income form when ﬁling your personaltaxreturns.



provinces (excluding Quebec) haveadditionaltaxcreditsyou can apply for. For example, if you split your pension income with a spouse who is not currently receiving a pension, that spouse can also claim up to 15% of $2,000 in eligible pension income. This Pension Income Tax Credit would translate to a maximum of $300infederaltaxsavings.

Disadvantages

 Same tax bracket: This strategy is not helpful if you are in the same tax bracket as there would be no beneﬁt to splittingyourpensionincome.

 Restrictions: Certain pension income doesn’t qualify for splitting, such as Old Age Security.

Strategy#2:Lendinvestmentmoney

toyourspouse/partner

While the attribution rules apply to spousalorpartnergiftsofinvestments, they do not apply to loans. The CRA allows spouses to loan each other money for investment or commercial use so long as the minimum interest paid on the loan meets the CRAprescribedinterestrate.

The prescribed rate remains ﬁxed for the term of the loan, so if the investment has an expected return that is higher than the prescribed interest rate,it’sagoodwaytohelpbringdown afamily’staxableincome.

Thecurrentprescribedrateis4.5%and willholduntilatleastJuly31,2024.At the current rate, an investment would need to have a return of more than 5.0%tobeneﬁtfromthisstrategy.

In terms of repayment, the borrower must pay the interest by January 30 of thefollowingyear,otherwise,theCRA will still attribute the loan back to the higher-income earner and they will be taxedatahigherrate.

Aswithallincome-splittingstrategies, this strategy has its beneﬁts and drawbacks.

Advantages

Stable loan terms: The loan is locked in at the CRA-prescribed rate at the

time the loan is issued, and interest must be paid by January 30 of each year, so there is no guesswork about therepaymentscheduleorfearofarate increase.

A win-win for income shifting: While thehighearnermustdeclaretheinterest paid to them as income, their total incomeonlyincreasesbytheprescribed rate at the time of the loan (currently 4%). Likewise, the lower-income earner must declare any dividends or income generated from the loan, but aslong asthey receive a higherrate of return than the prescribed rate at the time of the loan (for example, greater than the current 4%), they family still comes out ahead. Plus, income earned is taxed at the lower-income earner’s rate.

Deductibles: Any interest payments made can be deducted from the lowerincomeearner’staxableincome.

Disadvantages

Legal requirements: As with any other loan, there needs to be a loan agreement or promissory note drafted to makethe loan oﬃcialand tooutline the terms. Seeking legal counsel to do thisishighlyrecommended.

Estate complications: If either spouse passes before the loan is repaid, it can create potential headaches for the executor and next of kin, especiallyifestateplansdonotinclude contingencies around these scenarios. For example, if the higher-earning spousepassesbeforetheloanisrepaid, is the surviving spouse ﬁnancially able to repay the loan? It is highly recommendedthatestateplans include provisionsforspousalloans.

Accounting complications: This income-splittingstrategyrequiresextra tax reporting steps that may require professionalaccountingsupport,which is an additional cost for those who typicallypreparetheirowntaxreturns.

Record keeping: A detailed record of transactions must be kept in case of a CRAaudit.Whilethisisn’taheavylift, it is still another piece of paperwork you must track in addition to your current administrative burden as a smallbusinessowner.

For any views or comments, I can be reached via email: eddie@ ﬁdelitybusiness.ca

and

• Reviewyourinvestments (RRSP,RESP,Mortgage, Insurance)regularlywithyouradvisor • Learnhowtocomeupwitha simplehouseholdbudget • Manageyourdebts beforetheytakeoveryourlife

• Contactmetohelpyouachieve yourﬁnancialgoals

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Torontopolicelaunchpilottospeeduptransferofcareforindividuals apprehendedunderMentalHealthAct

Torontopolicearelaunchingaoneyear pilot program in collaboration with three Toronto hospital networks to expedite the transfer ofcareforindividualsapprehended undertheMentalHealthAct.

TheTorontoPoliceServiceissueda newsrelease onWednesday, saying twoDistrictSpecialConstableswill nowbestationedathospitalswithin the University Health Network, Unity Health Toronto and Humber River Health as Integrated Hospital Oﬃcers(IHOs).

The constables will assume the transfer of apprehended persons from police oﬃcers upon their arrival at the hospitals, the service saidinthenewsrelease.Theprogram will operate in the emergency departments and will be speciﬁc to

mentalhealthapprehensions.

Currently, sworn police oﬃcers who apprehend someone under the Mental Health Act must remain at the hospital with the apprehended person, often for several hours, the servicesaid.

The pilot will operate 18 hours a day,sevendaysaweek.

Police will now be stationed at Humber River Health, UHN’s Toronto Western Hospital and Unity Health Toronto’s St. Michael’s Hospital. Each hospital has allocated a designated space nearthetriageareafortheoﬃcers.

“We look forward to working with our partners at the Toronto Police

Serviceonthisimportantinitiative,” Marnie Escaf, clinical vicepresident at UHN, said in the news release. “This project will allow for a better transition to hospital careinourEmergencyDepartment, while also helping destigmatize the experience of patients living with mentalillness.”

Meanwhile, Police Chief Myron Demkiw said he was “pleased” to collaborate with Toronto police’s hospitalpartners.

“We know the community wants police oﬃcers where they are needed most and this pilot supports our commitment to improving call response times to better serve our communities,”hesaid.

“This pilot aims to return our frontline members to their core policing responsibilities faster and reducethetimeittakestotransition those experiencing mental health issues to the hospital’s care.” CTV News

The Ghanaian Ministerial Fellowship in Toronto, together with various churches and the GCAO in Toronto, would like to engage our Ghanaian community with one of the critical issues we areall facing: the issue of marriage.

Do you know that many marriages are breaking down all around us, including Christian marriage.

Do you know the causes to these marital problems and the solutionsto them?

Please be our guest on Sankofa radio everySunday morning from 9am to 9:30am

Come and listen to seasoned professionals and pastors who will help us unravel the causes and oﬀer valuable solutionsto the many marital issues in NorthAmerica.

We hope you will join us, and we believe your marriage will never be the same. Please invite someone too to listen to the program. God bless you.

Ottawaannouncesit’sfurtherreducingthenumberof internationalstudentpermits

The Liberal government will slash the number of international student visas it processes by another 10 per cent, and a group representing Ontario colleges is warningthatwillleadtoprogramcuts.

The government says the new target for 2025 and 2026 will be 437,000 permits. In2024thetargetwas485,000permits.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller said on Wednesday the government expects the changes to “yield approximately 300,000 fewer study permits” over the nextthreeyears.

CollegesOntariowarnedofchaos“both for international students who were excited to come here for a world-class education,andforthedomesticstudents whoseprogramsarenowatrisk.”

Ottawa is also putting new limits on workpermitsforspousesofbothforeign workersand students inmaster’sdegree programs. To qualify, the applicants’ spouseshavetobeinamaster’sprogram of at least 16 months in duration, or foreign workers in management or professional occupations or working in sectorsexperiencinglabourshortages.

Miller said the growth in international students and the corresponding postgraduate work and spousal permits are areas where “we owe it to Canadians, and in the context of an economy where the labour market in some areas is constricting, we need to adjustaccordingly.”

In January, the Liberal government announced a temporary cap to reduce the number of new student visas by morethanathirdthisyear.

Those changes came at a time when there was signiﬁcant scrutiny of the international student program. Experts

warnedthatstrongpopulationgrowth was putting pressure on an alreadystrainedhousingmarket.

Miller said the measures the government has taken until now are working,citing “more than anecdotal evidence that there has been an impact on certain rental markets wherestudentsaremoreprevalent.”

He acknowledged it has been a turbulent year for universities and colleges, which want predictability, but said he expects them to adjust to thenewrules.

“I’ve told post-secondary institutions several times that they need to adjust their recruitment practices,” he said.

“I have told them that the cost of acquisition of international students iscertaintoincrease.”

Universities Canada president Gabriel Miller said Wednesday’s announcement “ripped the Band-Aid oﬀ” after months of uncertainty. He saidthegovernmenthasbeenmaking announcements in “dribs and drabs” about changes to speciﬁcs like the rightofstudentstoworkinCanada.

“Thegovernmenthasgivenusclarity about what its objectives are going to be and what the rules governing the system will be. And that’s going help dispel the cloud of uncertainty that’sbeenhangingoverinternational student recruitment and that’s done so much damage to our international brand.”

He also said the government’s decisiontoincludepreviouslyexempt graduate students in the cap “sends a message that Canada is uncertain aboutitscommitmenttoaggressively recruitingthosemosttalentedstudents

tocomeandworkandstudyhere.”

Colleges Ontario president Marketa Evanscalledtheannouncement“deeply concerning” and said in a statement it showsabiastowarduniversities.

Evans said the federal government’s restrictions mean colleges in the province are set to lose at least $1.7 billion in revenue over the next two years.

“Ontario’s public college system cannotbecutoﬀatthekneeslikethis,” Evanssaid.

“With declining international students, and the resulting budgetary crunch, colleges will have to reduce program oﬀerings or cancel them altogether, which means domestic students won’t

have the chance to study in programs that are needed to address critical labourshortages.”

Rahul Jayan, an international student from India, said the federal government’smovewillmakeitharder forotherslikehimtoseekaneducation inCanada.

“It will be very tough (for those) who are coming,” the 22-year-old said on a TorontocollegecampusonWednesday. “There are more people who dream to cometoCanada.”

JayansaidheknewpeopleinIndiawho wouldbedirectlyaﬀectedbythenews.

“Itwillbediﬃcult,”hesaid.

TheCanadianPress

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Canadarelaxessomemortgagerulestotacklehousingcrisis

Government increasing cap on insured mortgages,expanding30-yearloansto morebuyers

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on Monday announced changes to some mortgage rules as part of an effort to make housing more affordable, although some housing experts are doubtful that the new measures will have a meaningful long-term impact on housing affordability and saytheymightevenpushpricesup.

The federal government will increase the cap on insured mortgages to $1.5 million from $1 million, eﬀective Dec. 15, which would allow more people to buy a house with a downpaymentbelow20percent.

Previously, Canadians who do not pay at least a ﬁfth of the cost of the house as a down payment need to take out mortgage insurance, but the insurance was available only for homes priced at $1 million or less.That limit is now $1.5million.

In addition, purchasers will be able to take out loans for a 30-year period if they are ﬁrst-time homebuyers or if someoneisbuyinganewlybuilthouse, Freelandsaid.Earlier,thethree-decade amortization period was limited to ﬁrst-time buyers buying newly built houses.

The measures will “incentivize more new housing construction and tackle

thehousingshortage,”Freelandsaidin astatement.

Theannouncementwasmetwithmixed reaction from analysts. RateHub.ca mortgage expert Penelope Graham wrote that expanding the criteria for 30-year mortgage amortizations and increasing the insurance cap “will greatlyimproveﬁrst-timehomebuyers’ accesstothehousingmarket.”

Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland says increasing the price cap ‘is going to put the dream of home ownership in reach for more young Canadians.’ Freeland also announced the federal government is allowing 30-year mortgage amortizations for all ﬁrsttime homebuyers and for all buyers of newbuilds. Under the new rules, buyers can purchase more expensive home types with smaller down payments. But it’s unclear how the new rules would

improveaﬀordabilityforthosecoming up on their mortgage renewals, she noted.

Marc Desormaux, a principal economist with Desjardins, said that the changes will mostly beneﬁt some homebuyers who are able to get into the housing market once the policy changestakeeﬀect.

“But from a broader societal perspective, there is a risk that this simplystimulateshomebuyingdemand, puts more pressure on prices and ultimately makes aﬀordability worse overthelongerrun,”saidDesormaux.

Homebuildinggroupshavelobbiedfor longer amortization periods to boost construction, arguing that more homebuyers in the market would encourage developers to build more homes.

‘Noquickﬁxtoourhousingcrisis’ Whileit’spossiblethatthechangeswill lead to more supply, Desormaux said therearemanyfactorsbeyonddemand from ﬁrst-time homebuyers that are “holding back our homebuilding ambitions” — including a dearth of skilled labour in the construction sectorandthehighcostofbuilding.

Toronto realtor John Pasalis called the changes “a terrible policy,”

criticizing the changes as “a quick ﬁx tosatisfysomeyoungerbuyers.”

“It’s a stimulative policy designed to increase home sales and really just drivethemarketforward,”Pasalissaid. “Thereality is that there’s no quickﬁx to our housing crisis ... the housing crisis is going to be solved with longterm[measures].”

The Liberal government has unveiled planstoloosenmortgagerulesforﬁrsttime home buyers, but many experts fearthe move willhave negative longtermconsequences.

In Canada, mortgages are typically for 25 years and the rate resets every threeorﬁveyears.IntheUnitedStates, homeowners can enjoy a ﬁxed rate for the entire life of a 15-year or 30-year mortgage.

The structure of Canadian mortgages exposes most borrowers to rising interest rates and has helped fuel a housingaﬀordabilitycrisis.

PrimeMinisterJustinTrudeau’spolling numbershaveslumpedtoanalmostalltime low of 30 per cent in September, which analysts and economists have said is primarily because millions of people are wrestling with high prices, especiallyofhomesandrents.Reuters

AnOntariomanwassurprisedtolearn hewouldhave topaya$1,000penalty tocancelhiswaterheaterrental.

“I was shocked that the penalty I had to pay was almost the cost of a brand new water heater,” James Alves, of Etobicoke,toldCTVNewsToronto.

Now that Alves is on a ﬁxed income, hesaidhewasreviewinghisbillswhen he decided to cancel his water heater rental contract. But he had no idea he wouldhavetopayapenalty.

“I decided it was costing too much money paying rent every month, and I ﬁgured after eight years I had paid enough in rental fees for the hot water tank,”saidAlves.

Over the years, Alves said he paid about$4,144,includingtaxes,torenta waterheaterfromEnercare.

WhenhecontactedEnercaretoendhis contract,hewastoldtherewasabuyout cancellation fee of $1,082, including taxes, which Alves was surprised he hadtopay.

“For something I could buy now for $1,200 they have charged me enough in rental fees and now to have to pay this cancellation fee. I just feel it’s ridiculous,”saidAlves.

When Alves complained to Enercare, theyreducedthebuyoutpriceby$250.

“We do not typically share details of customer accounts or interactions. However, we can conﬁrm that our rental contract includes the option to customers to purchase the equipment to end a contract,” an Enercare spokespersontoldCTVNewsToronto.

“InthiscaseandasnotedbyMr.Alves, asavaluedandlong-standingcustomer, a goodwill credit was already applied to his account to reduce the purchase price. Nevertheless, we always strive to ensure customer satisfaction and havereachedouttoMr.Alves.”

Water heaters are generally reliable, need little to no maintenance and last 15 years or more. While the majority of Canadian homeowners in many provinces buy their water tanks, many people in Ontario continue to rent them.

BillAdams, who looks after the water heater division for Home Depot, says those who still rent may want to considerbuyingoneinstead.

“A lot of people, they have been in the rental market, they move into a home, and they just continue with theirmonthlypaymentlikeit’sanother

monthlybill,butwehavemanyoptions when it comes to water heaters,” said Adams.

There are more basic electric and natural gas models. Power vent and tankless water heater models will cost moretopurchaseandinstall.

Adams said a standard electric water heater costs about $600 to purchase and about the same to install, while a natural gas model is slightly more at about$800tobuyandinstall.

They range from40 to 80 gallon tanks and can come with various warranty periods, which Adams describes as a “good, better, best” line of protection with prices varying on a case-by-case situation.

“For about $1,500 to $2,200, you

will then have your own water heater installed, and we will take out the old model and put in the new one,” said Adams.

Alves said in the future, he’ll always own his water tank and never rent one again.

“They have spent no money on this tank other than bring it in to my home eight years ago. Now they want me to pay basically the costof anotherwater tank to purchase their eight-year-old tank,”saidAlves.

Some companies are also trying to get homeowners to rent their furnaces and air conditioners, and while there may not be an upfront cost, you could pay three to four times more for the equipmentoverthelifeofthecontracts.

RogersCommunicationstobuy outBell’sshareofMLSE

for$4.7billion

Rogers Communications Inc. is buying out Bell’s 37.5 per cent share of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment for $4.7 billion, giving it 75 per cent ownership of thesportsconglomerate.

Rogers and Bell had held equal shares of MLSE, which owns the NHL Maple Leafs, NBA Raptor, CFL Argonauts, MLS Toronto FC andAHLMarlies.

MLSEchairmanLarryTanenbaum, via his holding company Kilmer SportsInc.,ownsa20percentstake in MLSE after selling a ﬁve per cent share to OMERS, a Canadian pension fund, in the summer of 2023.

“MLSE is one of the most prestigioussportsandentertainment organizationsintheworldandwe’re proud to expand our ownership of thesecovetedsportsteams,”Rogers president and CEO Tony Staﬃeri said in a statement. “As Canada’s leading communications and entertainment company, live sports and entertainmentare acritical part ofourcorebusinessstrategy.”

Rogers, which owns Sportsnet, already owns Major League Baseball’sBlueJays anditsRogers Centrehome.

The deal, subject to league and regulatory approvals, provides Bell with the opportunity to “renew its existing MLSE broadcast and sponsorship rights long-term at fair marketvalue.”Thisincludesaccess to content rights for 50 per cent of

MapleLeafsregionalgamesand50 percent of Toronto Raptors games forwhichMLSEcontrolstherights.

Rogers said the purchase will not aﬀect its debt leverage “and ﬁnancing will include private investors.”

“MLSE continues to appreciate signiﬁcantly, and together with our sports and media assets, we plan to surfacemorevalueforshareholders long-term,” said Staﬃeri. “This agreement also ensures long-term Canadianownershipandinvestment oftheseiconicteams.”

Rogers also has “strategic partnerships” with the Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames and NHL. When the transaction closes, Rogers will be the largest owner of MLSE with a controlling Interest in 75 per cent ofMLSE.

Rogers and Bell closed their deal to acquire an ownership position in MLSE in August 2012 after announcing the purchase from Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan in December2011.

In acquiring 75 per cent equity ownership in MLSE, they formed a holding company to govern their combinedownershipposition.

Atthetime,KilmerSportsincreased its 20.5 percent ownership stake to 25percent.

CP24 is a division of Bell Media, which is part of BCE Inc.

TheCanadianPress

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AdwoaSerwaah Yeboah

Ghana:TheStateistheEnemyofthePeople

ByKwakuObosu-Mensah,Toronto,ON

Inatypicaldemocratic society,thepopulation electssomecitizensto managetheaﬀairsof thecountrytobeneﬁtall membersofthesociety. Thus,everycountryis acustodianstatethat issupposedtoensure thatallcitizenshave accesstobasicneeds.

Unfortunately,theState ofGhanarepresentedbyGhanaianpoliticians hasbecometheenemyofthecitizenry.Through theactionsandinactionsofGhanaianpoliticians, thestate,whichissupposedtoseekthewelfare ofGhanaians,hasratherbroughtunnecessary hardshipsandmiseryonGhanaians.

InGhana,therearetwomainpoliticalparties–New PatrioticParty(NPP)andtheNationalDemocratic Congress(NDC).Combined,thesetwoparties haveruledGhanasincethecountryreturnedto constitutionalruleinthe1990s.Thatmeansthe politicians,thenationwreckers,arefromthosetwo parties.

Thepoliticiansmakedecisionsthatwastethe resourcesofthecountry,decisionsthathaveled totheuntimelydeathofmanyGhanaians.Infact, consideringtheactionsandinactionsofGhanaian politicians,onewonderswhethertheyarerational beings.

AsrecentlyasAugust2024,therewasacaseinthe Courtinvolvingthepurchaseofambulancesfor thecountry.ThepresentNPPgovernmentaccused thepreviousNDCgovernmentofcorruptioninthe purchaseof200ambulances.Courtproceedings indicatedthatwheninpower,theNDCgovernment took$2millionforthepurchaseofambulancesbut importedintothecountryambulanceswithoutany healthcareequipment.Thus,theNDCgovernment importedintothecountryvehicleswhichwerenot suitableforuseasambulances.Sincethiscaseis stillincourt,wecanonlysaythatifthisistrue,then Ghanaianpoliticiansarewickednationwreckers. Ontheotherhand,theNDCinsiststhattheterms ofpurchasewerethatthemanufacturerwould firstshiptheemptyambulances,andthenshipthe equipmenttoretrofittheambulancesinGhana.The emptyambulancesarrivedfirst,butbythetimethe equipmentarrivedinGhana,thegovernmenthad changed.Thus,theNPPwasinpowerandtook deliveryoftheequipmentbutrefusedtoallowthe manufactureroftheambulancestocomeandinstall itinthevehicles.Infact,incourt,theNDCasked theNPPtoshowGhanaianstheequipment,butthe latterhasrefusedtodosoduetopoliticalreasons.If thisistrue,thenitispurewickednessonthepartof Ghanaianpoliticians.Whicheveristhetruth,shows thatthestate,representedbyGhanaianpoliticians,is theenemyofthepeople.

UndertheNDCgovernment,onJanuary4,2013, theMinistryofFinancewhichisboththeborrower andthelender,signedafacilityagreementforthe

releaseof$200milliontofundtheconstructionof theSaglemiHousingProjectcomprisingof5,000 housingunits.AccordingtoNPPpoliticians,by thetimetheNDCgovernmentleftoﬃcein2016, only1,500apartmentshadbeenbuiltofwhichonly 668were100%completed.Thus,NDCpoliticians borrowed$200milliontobuild5,000apartments butbuiltonly1,500.Thatisnakedembezzlement. AccordingtotheAttorneyGeneralappointedbythe NPP,eventhecompletedhouseswerenothabitable. He(AG)insiststhattheprojectatthesitewas worth$64millioneventhoughtheNDCpoliticians havestatedthatabout$196millionhadbeenspent ontheproject.Ifthisistrue,thenthewickedness andcorruptionofGhanaianpoliticians,thenation wreckers,areobvious.TheNDCpoliticians,on theotherhand,insistthattheprojectwasinfour phases,andphaseonecomprisedoftheconstruction of1,502apartments.Theynotedthat,bythetime theyleftoﬃce,phaseonewas80percentcompleted andearmarkedtobeoccupied.Accordingtothe NDC,insteadofcompletingtheunitsforoccupancy, theNPPpoliticiansdecidedtoabandonit.Lately, NPPpoliticianshavedecidedtosellthepropertyto privatedevelopers.Thus,fortheNPPpoliticians, theprojectisviableforprivatedevelopersbutnot forthestate.

Foralmosteightyears,theSaglemihousingproject wasabandonedbytheNPP-ledadministration. Now,thegovernmenthasdecidedtotakeitsdirty handsofftheSaglemihousingprojecttopaveway foraprivatedevelopertorefurbishthehousing unitsandsellthemtopotentialowners,theMinister ofWorksandHousing,FrancisAsensoBoakye said.Asofthetimeofwriting,Ghanaiansarenot sureofthefateoftheSaglemihousingproject,but consideringtherecordofNPPandNDC,noone wouldbesurprisediftheprojectislefttorot.There aretoomanyabandonedprojectsinGhana. Anotherareawherethestatehasshownthatitis theenemyofGhanaiansisthewastingofmoneyon theconstructionofvanityprojectsincludingsome airports.Overtheyears,Ghanahasconstructedfive regionalairportsatKumasi,Tamale,Sunyani,Wa, andHo.In2024,theseairportsincurredadeficitof GHc26.01million.Eventhoughthemajorityofthe regionalairportsservenopurposeandarelosing money,somepoliticiansareromanticizingbuilding anairportatCapeCoast.

AccordingtotheInternationalLaborOrganization, theyouthunemploymentratewas8%in2023.The ILOalsonotedthatmorethan65%oftheyouths areunderemployed,andonly5%ofgraduatesﬁnd jobsafterthemandatorynationalservice.With suchahighunemploymentrate,itisnotsurprising thatmanyyouthsareinvolvedinthedestructive miningcommonlyknownasGalamsey.Theyouths areintheforestsandinriversmininginawaythat haspollutedmanyofGhana’swaterbodies,and contaminatedcocoaandotheragriculturalproducts. DespitethehavoccausedbyGalamsey,thestateis notstoppingitbecause,astheSpeakerofGhana’s parliamentnoted,somepoliticiansarebehind Galamsey.NotonlyistheStaterepresentedbythe politicianswastingtheresourcesofthepeople, buttheyarealsocontaminatingtheirwaterbodies and,intheprocess,poisoningGhanaians.Inmid2024,whensomeNPPpoliticianswereaccused

ofpollutingGhana’swaterbodiesthroughtheir involvementinGalamsey,FrankAnnohDompreh, theMajorityWhip,retortedthattheNDCpolluted morewaterbodiesduringtheirtenure.Obviously, thetwonation-wreckingpartiesarecompetingover whichofthemislessevil.

Recently,whensomeNPPpoliticianswere accusedofgrabbingStatelands,oneofthem arrogantlyretortedthatNDCpoliticianshad grabbedmoreStatelandsthantheyhad.Thus, thereisacompetitionbetweenGhanaianpoliticians insellinggovernmentpropertiestothemselves cheaply.LuxuriousareaslikeCantonments,Airport ResidentialArea,NorthRidge,andEastLegon SwitchBackroad,havebecomethehotspotsfor statelandallocations,withex-presidents,former politicalpartychairmen,andministersamongthe beneﬁciaries.Yes,Ghanaianpoliticiansareselling tothemselvesplotsoflandearmarkedforstate projects.

Economically,moretaxeshinderdevelopment–nocountryhastaxeditscitizensintoprosperity. Thus,themoreacountryimposestaxes,thelessthe economicdevelopment.Duetothepoordecisions theymake,andtheirgreedforevenmoremoney, Ghanaianpoliticianskeepimposingheavytaxes onGhanaians.InAugust2024,afriendpurchased cutlery,amug,acookingpot,aﬂyingpan,anda woodenladle.ThebasicamountwasGhc575.61. Thegovernmentleviedthefollowingtaxeson thekitchenitems:NHIL@2.50%-GHc14.39, GFUND@2.50%-GHc14.39,andCovidLevy@ 1%-GHc5.75.ThesubtotalwasGHc610.15.The statethenimposedVAT@15%-GHc91.52onthe subtotal,bringingthegrandtotaltoGHc701.67. Thus,forthispurchaseofGhc575.61,thestate leviedataxofGHc126.06.

IbelievethatGhanahasverygoodanddedicated physicians,however,manyofourhospitalsare placesyougotosufferanddie.Thisisbecause manyhospitalslackbasicmedicalequipment.The Statedoesnotprovidenecessaryequipmentto thehospitalsbecausemanyofthemostpowerful custodiansoftheState,thepoliticians,travel abroadfortheirannualcheckup,andothermedical interventions.Themoneythenationwreckersspend onthoseexpensivemedicaltripsabroadcould equipmanyhospitalstobetterservethegeneral population,buttheywon’tdothat. Apartfrompolicestationsintheregionalcapitals, mostpolicestationsinGhanadon’thavepolice vehiclestoservethepopulation.Thus,inacrisis, thepolicearehelplessiftransportationisrequired. Someyearsago,Ivisitedamid-sizetowninGhana. Intheevening,Ijoinedsomepoliceofficersunder atreeinfrontofthepolicestation.Asoneofthem narratedtome,amanwasknockeddownbyahit andrundriverontheoutskirtsofthetown.When theygotwindofit,thepolicewalkedtothescene andphysicallycarriedthevictimtothepolice station.Theclosesthospitalwas20.5kilometers away.Theyhadtorelyonpublictransportationbut unfortunatelyatthecriticaltime,novehicleshowed upforhours.Sadly,themandied.Theofficerwas surethat,iftheyhadavehicle,themanwouldhave survived.

Ghanaistheheadquartersofuncompleted roads.Thatmany,ifnotmost,oftheroadsare uncompletedisbecauseofthechildishbehaviorof Ghanaianpoliticians.IfanNDCgovernmentstarts aroadanditisnotcompletedbeforetheyleave power,theincomingNPPgovernmentabandons theroadandstartsanotherone.Inthesamevein, ifanNPPgovernmentstartstheconstructionof aroadanditisnotcompletedbeforetheyleave power,theincomingNDCgovernmentabandons theroadandstartsnewroads.Duetothenumerous potholes,suchuncompletedroadsnotonlymake ridesunbearable,butalsomakethemaccident prone.Thinkaboutthevehiclesthathavegotten intoaccidentsbecausethedriverstriedtoavoid potholes;thinkaboutthepeoplewholivenearsuch untarredroadsandthedusttheyinhaledaily;think aboutstatefundswastedonsuchuncompleted roads,etc.

Onlyyourenemywillmakedecisionsthatwill makelifeintolerableforyou.Thatisexactlywhat Ghanaianpoliticians,inthenameoftheStateof Ghana,aredoingtoGhanaians. HowlongwillGhanaiansallowafewnation wreckerstocontinuemakinglifeuncomfortablefor them?Whenshallwebeangryenoughtoresistthis internaloppression?

GHANAIANCANADIAN ACHIEVEMENTAWARDS2024

A Celebration of Excellence

Welcome Address

By Emmanuel Ayiku

HisExcellencytheGhanaHighCommissioner, HonorableRepresentativesfromtheFederaland ProvincialLegislations,DistinguishedGuests, Nananom,FellowCommunityMembers,Ladies andGentlemen,

Itisindeedanhonorandafeelingofgreatpleasure formetohaveanotheropportunitytowelcome youalltothishistoricoccasion,the21stGhanaian CanadianAchievementNight.

WhentheideaofthisAwardNightwasstartedinthe year2000,littledidweimaginethatitwillblossom tothestandardandgeneratetheenthusiasm,respect andsupportthatitnowenjoysbothwithinand outsideourcommunity.Notonlyarewehosting today,the21stsuccessiveeventoftheprogram,but wearealsowitnessingahighlevelofenthusiasmin thecommunity.

TheobjectiveofthisAwardGalaisthreefold:

Firstly,theachieversdeservedtoberecognized,honoredandencouragedtoachieveeven higherstandards.

Secondly,itwasdeemedimportanttoshowcasethebestandbrightestinourcommunity tothelargerCanadianMosaic,Canadiansocietymustbemadeawareofthesigniﬁcant contributionsthatourcommunityismakingtothedevelopmentofthiscountrywhichto allintentsandpurposesourhome.

Itisoftensadandunfortunatethatimmigrantsareseeninthiscountryasjustparasiteswho onlytakeawayfromCanadiansociety,butthatisnotthecase.Thepresentationtonight andthosethatweredonepreviousyearsspeakvolumestothat.

Thirdlyandmostimportantly,weintendtousethisceremonyasagreatboostand inspirationtoouryouth.

Thehighachieversyouthwhowerehonoredlastyearandthosethatarebeinghonored tonighthaveattainedheightandglorythatwilldeﬁnitelyencouragetheiryouthfulpeersto striveforhonorsintheirvariousﬁelds.

Onbehalfofmyself,mywifeandtheGhanaianNewsStaﬀ,Iwishtoextendthegratitude oftheAwardsplanningandSelectioncommittee,andtoalloursponsorswithoutwhose contributionthiseventwouldhavebeendiﬃculttoorganize.

Tothelargenumberofvolunteersspreadacrossthecountrywesayabigthankyoufor yourinput.

Finally,toallourinvitedguests,friendsandwell-wishesinCanadiansocietyweextenda warmgratitudetoyouandhopeyouwillcontinuetosupportoureﬀorts.

ThankyouandGodblessourcommunity.

KEYNOTESPEAKER

Chris Campbell is the President of the Carpenters’ union Local 27 in Toronto, and the Equity Diversity & Inclusion Representative of the Carpenters’ Regional Council (CRC). Chris has been a member of the Union for 35 years and has served on severalindustryandlocalcommunityboards including the JCA. He also proactively fosters and engages eﬀective relationships with local partners around the province building relationships with women and various equity seeking groups. Chris also plays a major role in recruiting youths from his community to pursue careers in the construction trade. Giving back to the communityisaphilosophyhecontinuestopractice.Hehasledseveralvolunteer philanthropicconstruction“builds”bothlocallyandinternationally,toassistthe lessfortunateandistherecipientofnumerouslabourmovementandcommunity services awards and accolades. Click here to support the next generation of our industry through the “Chris Campbell Perseverance Award” LinkedIn: https:// www.linkedin.com/in/chris-campbell-52915b40

HighCommissioner’sMessage

MrsPatienceOduroisakeynotepublic speakerandaseasonedbankerwith over15yearsofworkingexperiencein variousﬁnancialinstitutionsacrossthe globe.BornandraisedinAccra,Ghana, analumniofUniversityofGhana, Legon,holdsanMBAfromDelta InternationalUniversity,USAandapost graduatecertiﬁcationinFinancialcrime, ACAMS,Canada.

She’sworkedinvariousﬁnancial institutionsinthecountryandcurrentlya ManagerwithBankofMontreal(BMO).

She’smarriedandblessedwith3 amazingkids. Mrs.Odurotakesdelightinengagingwiththenewlymarriedcouplesto oﬀeradviceandsupport. ShesingsanddanceinherleisureandpassionateaboutservicetoGod.

“KBAsantehashadtheprivilegeof conductingredcarpetinterviewsforthe Ghanaian-CanadianAssociationofOntario (GCAO),includingduringthevisitsof thePresidentofGhanaandthewifeofthe VicePresidenttoToronto.Asoneofthe premierMCsintheGhanaiancommunity, heispassionateaboutcreatingengaging momentsandcapturingtheessenceof theseimportantevents.”

MC-KwabenaBAsante

MC-Mrs.PatienceOduro Ghana

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Joana Gyimah

Porcia Boateng

Robert (Bobby J) Micah

Esther Nana Araba Assibil

Gloria Anima Prempeh

PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE

Albert Aikins

Joyce Asabre

Eddie Twumasi-Smith

Evelyn Cobbinah

Dr. Setorme A. Tsikata

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Ebenezer Inkumsah

Chris ana Nuamah

Emmanuel Quaye Jr. COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Mary Fosu

Angelina Asante-Nimako

George Amoako

African Safari Tropical Market

YOUTH LEADERSHIP

Irene Duah-Kessie

Kwaku Nuako

YOUNG TALENT

Anthony Behome

RELIGION/OUTREACH

Rev. Dr. Alex Agyei-Dwamena

Rev. Milton Ofei

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC

Prince Ameyaw Kyereh (Cobbi Kay) MEDIA

Prince Kwadwo Tawiah (Milo)

CULTURAL PROMOTION

Zumunta African Muslim Associa on of Canada GROUP OF THE YEAR

Yonkodor Associa on of Toronto

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Stephen Mensah SPORTS

Juliana Arkoh

RegistrationandRedCarpet/Networking

IntroductionofM.C.sMrsPatienceOduroandMr.KwabenaAsante

OpeningPrayerDinnerisserved

NationalAnthems GhanaandCanada

WelcomeAddress-EmmanuelAyiku,GhanaianNews

Good-willMessagesfrom GhanaHighCommissionertoCanada H.E.AnselmSowah

EntertainmentInterlude-CulturalDisplay

KeynoteSpeaker-ChrisCampbell PresidentoftheCarpenter’sUnionLocal27Toronto

AwardsPresentation

EntertainmentInterlude:Music, FashionShowbyBeniBoo

AwardsPresentationcontinues

PhotoOpportunityforAwardRecipients

VoteofThanks

Dance!Dance!!Dance!!!

RECIPIENTS

EDDIETWUMASI-SMITH- PROFESSIONALEXCELLENCE

Eddieisalicensedprofessionalengineer(P.Eng)in Alberta Canada and also a chartered professional accountantPA(Canada,USAandUK).Hehasover 25 years professional experience working across multipleindustries,someofwhicharegoldmining, (Barrick Gold, the world largest gold mining operation) auditing and advisory/consulting with thebig4auditﬁrmsinUSAandhas,spentthepast 14 years with oil and gas companies in theAlberta province. Eddie, is looking into building a new brand and services to help and extendexcellencewithintheAfricanCommunityhereinCanadaandabroad.

As he developed his career working and serving many clients and providing solutions and improving business operations and organizational proﬁtability. Eddie’s passion and desire has been to transfer and deliver similar excellence to smalltomediumbusinessownerswithinCanadaandacrosstheglobe.

His passion and desire have resulted in the launching of Fidelity Business ServicesInc,whichisincorporatedinCanadaandwiththegoalofhelpingSMBs to improve their proﬁtability and make informed and prudent decisions that impactSMBbusinessoperations.

DR.SETORMEA.TSIKATA-PROFESSIONALEXCELLENCE

Dr.SetormeTsikataisadistinguishedfamilyphysician, Associate Clinical Professor at the Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Deaconess of the Church of Pentecost and Founder and Medical Director of Compassion Medical Wellness Centre in Edmonton. Born and raised in Ghana, Dr. Tsikata’s remarkable journey spans over twenty-six years in medicine, with twenty-four of those years in Canada. Among many other professional designations, she is a Fellow in Women’s Health from the University of Ottawa and a Fellow of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, as well as theGhanaCollegeofPhysiciansandSurgeons.

Known for going above and beyond her call of duty, her deep compassion and multifaceted life, Dr. Tsikata is committed to transcending both cultural and professionalboundariesthroughherdiverseexperiencesandexceptional eﬀorts. Her passion for underserved populations, has led her to work with BIPOC communitiesandindiverseandremotecommunitiesacrossCanada–inAlberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario in remote locations such as Red Lake and Iroquois Falls. She has made house calls through snowstorms and the Covid-19 pandemic. She has received recognition for her patient-centered approachtohealthcareinanAlbertaMedicalAssociation’sShineaLightprogram article, in a February 2022 feature on Best Health’s “Incredible Black Women WhoAreChangingCanadianHealthCare”andearnedacknowledgementbyher localMLA,RhiannonHoyle.

Currently, Dr. Tsikata’s practice focuses on mental health, medical aesthetics, andfemale wellness, oﬀering non-surgicaltreatments forvarious female-related conditions including genitourinary symptoms of menopause and childbirthrelated complications (being acutely aware of the challenges women face in discussingpelvichealth).

Dr. Setorme gives back to the community locally and internationally by mentoring medical students, residents and international medical graduates navigatingcertiﬁcationinCanada.SheisinvolvedwithKademandotherNGOs as her contribution to global health and patient education, through Compassion Philanthropy,andhelpedorganizemedicalmissions,procuremedicalequipment and supplies to various health facilities in Ghana including Korle-bu Teaching HospitalandBattorCatholicHospital.

Her practice is deeply intertwined with her faith. She proudly attests to God’s guidance and grace on her life’s work and achievements. She acknowledges the loveandcontinuedsupportofherhusbandBenandtwochildrenthathavehelped herpushboundariesdaily.

EVELYNCOBBINAH-PROFESSIONALEXCELLENCE

Evelyn Ankomah Cobbina studied at the Kwame Nkrumah University and graduated with B. Sc.DevelopmentPlanningin1993.

Prior to relocating to Canada, Evelyn worked with a topNGOinGhana,WaterAidwheresheexcelledand rosetothemanageriallevel.

Relocating to Canada in 1998, with great focus and aspiration to achieve higher heights, Evelyn obtained Bachelor of Social Work degree fromYork Universityin2005andthereafterobtainedherMaster ofSocialWorkdegreeatDalhousieUniversityin2014.

Evelyn has had successful career both as a public service employee and an entrepreneur.

To name but a few, Evelyn worked with The World Vision International as theCorporateGiftinKindmanager,whereshedeﬁned,designed,monitored,and evaluated structures to support 96 countries in the world. Ensuring the management and distribution of medication, clothing, building materials, and infrastructure,suchasschoolandeducationalmaterialstoneedycountries.This positiontookhertomanycountriesintheworldandwashighlyrespected.

For her passion and her love to the service of humanity especially for helping women, children and new immigrants to Canada, Evelyn worked at Central West Specialised Developmental Services and Family services of Peel asAdult protectiveWorker,whereshesupportedadultswithdevelopmentalchallengesto liveindependentlyinthecommunity.

Evelyn is a case manager with the City of Toronto, Employment and Social ServicesDivision,apositionshehasheldover15years.

Evelynalsovolunteeredinnumberofsocialserviceorganizations,suchasabused women shelter, Children’sAid Society of Toronto and Correctional Services of Canada,tonameafew.

As an Entrepreneur, Evelyn is the founder and CEO of Mount Sinai Home Healthcare Services Inc, a healthcare staﬃng Agency. An organization she established in 2014 at her basement with one employee. She has been able to grow the business into a corporate business with over 300 employees in the healthcare sector, employing both nurses and personalsupport workers. She is very well knowninherToronto, Ghanaian community,sofarasemploymentis concerned.

Evelyn is a mother, a sister, and a friend to many, through her benevolence and socialinteractionswithmembersofhercommunity.

Sheisjovial,respectful,andalwayscarriesasmileonherface. AproudGhanaianCanadianwomanwithmodestyandfearofGod.

JoyceAsabere is theAssistant Manager, Clinical Resource Team. She is one of Osler’s six 2023 Values Award winners, receiving the peernominatedExcellenceAward.

Joyce was working as a Transitional Care Coordinator (TCC) in Osler’s Reactivation Care Centre when she was nominated – and won –Osler’sExcellenceAward,beforemovingintoher newroleinAugust2023.Liketheawardwinners beforeher,sheishumbleaboutreceivingthisrecognition.

She is very aware that the people who live and work in the communities Osler serves are among the most culturally diverse in the province and that communication–especiallylanguage–needstobeakeyconsideration.

JoyceusesinterpretationtoolssuchasvideointerpretationviaiPadandlanguage lineforherselfandherpatients.

Thisperspectiveand commitmenttoExcellenceissomethingJoycebringswith hertohernewroleandtheincredibleClinicalResourceTeamsheismanaging.

JOYCEASABRE-PROFESSIONALEXCELLENCE

RECIPIENTS

ESTHERNANAARABAASSABIL - COMMUNITYSERVICE

My Healthcare (Medical Laboratory) Career, startedasaStudentinlaboratoryScience,whenI became one of the 15 Students admitted into the Only Medical laboratory Technology School in Ghanaat the Korle-BuTeaching Hospital Ghana fora3yearStudy.

Uponsuccessfulcompletion,Iwaslateradmitted into the University Ghana –Legon to pursue a Clinical Laboratory Science program, a newly introducedCourseundertheUniversityofGhana MedicalSchool.IlaterassistedintheTrainingof MedicalStudentsinLaboratoryMedicine.

I was oﬀered the opportunity to choose between two main hospitals Royal Free andStHelierintheUKtostudyClinicalLaboratoryPractice. Whilstintraining I seized the opportunity to follow a ﬁrst Degree (BSc.) in Clinical Laboratory SciencesattheUniversityofGreenwich.

At the Recommendation of one of my supervisors, I was granted admission to pursue a Master’s Degree (MSC.) in Biomedical Sciences Hematology at the UniversityofPortsmouthinEngland.

I intensely carried a Research in Sickle Cell Disease, knowing well that a third of the Population of Ghanaians and indeed the West African Region carried this Health scare gene as inheritance. This caught the attention of the Institute of Biomedical Science in UK, and carried the caption in their gazette. “Platelet ActivationinSickleCellDiseaseCrisesVSSteadyState”

I became a Fellow of the Institute, thus becoming the First Ghanaian from the LaboratoryTechnicianinHematologytoholdtheFellowshipoftheInstitutewith theMastersDegree.

Mrs. Gloria Prempeh, aﬀectionately known as Gee Mama, exempliﬁes exceptional leadership through her unwavering commitment to both her professional career and community service.

EstheristhePresidentofGhanafestAlbertaInc/ Foundation.SheisfocusedonpromotingTrade, CulturalDiversityandensuringpeaceandunity amongstallcitizens.

Shealsohasasoftspotfortheneedyandhomeless hencesheusesherfoundationtoorganizespecial charityeventstoraisefundstofeedthehomeless andtheneedy.

Esther is a visionary and focused leader who is shifting perception of culture from discrimination to diversityandinclusion.

Sheispassionate,motivational,giving,loving,optimistic,organized,protective andhardworking.

JOANAGYIMAH- COMMUNITYSERVICE

JoanaGyimahisthededicatedoﬃceadministrator attheGhanaianCanadianAssociationofOntario (GCAO), where her unwavering commitment and perfectionist drive have made a signiﬁcant impact. Her career has been marked by a strong focus on community service and engagement. Joana began her journey at the Jane and Finch Family Center (2006 to 2008), where she was involved in outreach and community work. She then worked at MicroSkills Community Development Center as a Job Developer/ Employment Counselor and Outreach Worker from 2008 to 2015. Following that, she served as a Community Engagement Worker at Action for Neighborhood from 2015 to 2021. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Joana’s dedication was evident in her involvement in various community services, including assisting seniors, supporting temporary residents, GCAO homework club, and organizing food bank drives. Her passion for connecting with people and her commitment to excellence have consistently surpassed expectations. Known for her positive attitude and thorough approach, Joana’s outstanding contributions and uplifting presence earned her a well-deserved award nomination. Born in Ghana and migratingtoCanadaattheageofsix,Joanaisalsoadevotedwifeandmotherto threewonderfulgirls. GLORIAANIMAPREMPEH

Hailing fromAkropongAkuapim, Mrs. Prempeh has signiﬁcantly contributed to the Okuapeman Cultural Association of Ontario. Her distinguished roles as treasurer,Krontihemaa,andavitalmemberofvarious planningcommitteeshighlighthersteadfastdedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. In addition to her community engagements, Mrs. Prempeh is a devoted mother of three and a loving wife to her supportive husband, Ralph, embodying the values of family and service. Professionally, Gloria has dedicated over 36 years to the Royal Bank of Canada as a bank administrator, where she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and commitment to excellence in the banking sector.

In Ghana, Gee Mama is the sole distributor of BELPAK in the Eastern Region, a sister company of BELAQUA specializing in household accessories, further showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Driven by a vision to uplift the underprivileged, Gloria founded the Oyerepa Social Club of Canada. This family-oriented organization, with over 300 members, supports the Oyerepa Foundation of Ghana, led by Auntie Naa, in delivering essential aid and resources to those in need.

Mrs.GloriaPrempeh’s legacy isone ofdedication, compassion, and unwavering service,establishingherasatruepillarofcommunityexcellence.

PopularlyknownasBobbyJ,hepossesses aneclecticbackgroundinmanagement, broadcasting,education,community advocacy,socialmobilizationandactivism. OnOctober1,1976,hesetfootonthesoils ofToronto.

HewasborninGhanaandlearntveryearly thevalueofeducation

Thereisavisceralyawningineverychild forabettereducationandabetterfuture. Hetookuponhimselftobearthemoral anchorforthedisplaced,marginalized, disenchantedandunderprivileged.

Hispassioninlifeistoleavean indeliblemarkforposterityinhissmall anthropocentricway.

Hecompletedgrades11,12and13intwo yearsandproceededtouniversitytorender backontohistorythereceiptofalgebra aftervoraciouslyreadingeverybookor magazinehelaidhishandson.

Hehasovertwenty-ﬁveyearsofexperience ineducation,InformationandSystems

PORCIABOATENG-COMMUNITYSERVICE

Porcia Boateng is a CEO, Speaker, Disciple of Jesus, Credit Literacy Coach, and mother of six exceptional children. She is on a mission to help the next generation overcome barriers and livetheabundantlifeGodcreatedforthem.

Drawing from her life experiences and career in the ﬁnance industry, Porcia educates and empowers families from diverse

communities to thrive. Her framework is rooted in biblical principles, ensuring a holistic approach to ﬁnancial well-being. Her personalandprofessionaljourneyhasshapedherintoapowerfuladvocate forﬁnancialliteracy.

Porcia is an invaluable resource for millennials, Gen Z, and families seeking expert ﬁnancial advice and motivation to break mindset barriers. She is dedicated to elevating the lives of families and the next generation through ﬁnancial education, striving to close the wealth gap in marginalizedcommunities.

Technology,non-proﬁtorganization, broadcasting,andbusinessmanagement.

PriortojoiningtheCalgaryAfrican CommunityCollective,CACC,asa Consultant,hetaughtintheprivate schoolsystemfortwelveyearsteaching mathematics,physics,computerscience andleadership.

HewasthechairoftheBoardofDirectors fortheInternationalSchoolofExcellence, aprivateschoolinAlberta,managingan annualbudgetof$2.1Mandastudent populationofaboutthreehundred.

HewasapastPresidentoftheGhanaian CanadianAssociationofCalgary,aformer PresidentoftheAsantemanAssociation ofCalgary,aformerBoardmemberof theAfro-CaribbeanCouncilofCalgary,a

pastambassadoroftheCalgaryChamber ofCommerce,acommunityactivistand afreelancewriterfortheCalgarySun Newspaper,theGhanaianTimesandShade Magazine.

HeiscurrentlythePresidentandCEO oftheRobertMicahHoldingsLtd,the ChiefExecutiveOﬃcerofTheTaradale GroupManagementConsultantsInc., theInternationalManagingDirectorof theInterContinentalConsultantsInc,and theVicePresidentoftheGhanaCanada ChamberofCommence,CalgaryChapter. HealsomanagedTheCanadaAfrica EducationalFoundation,theThirdWorld EducationalFoundationandalsoafreelance writer,journalistandHostoftheradioand televisionprogram“YYCSpeaks”and ‘GhanaYeWoMan“,inCalgary,Alberta, Canada.

ROBERT(BOBBYJ)MICAH - COMMUNITYSERVICE

RECIPIENTS

IRENEDUAH-KESSIE–YOUTHLEADERSHIP

Irene is the founder of Rise In STEM, a youthled grassroots initiative that provides STEM learning and leadership opportunities for Black and underserved youth across the Greater Toronto Area. She started this initiative in 2019 as a result of her experiences growing up in under-resourced communities, recognizing the underrepresentation ofBlackstudentsinacademiaandthechallengesshe experiencednavigatingpost-secondaryeducationas a science student and the complexities that came with being ﬁrst-generation. Irene assisted in oﬀering a variety of workshops, mentorship, leadership, professional development and industry and academic exposure for over 350 youthinthepast5years.

Most recently, my commitment has led to the creation of a research program andtutoringprogramatmyhighschool,FatherHenryCarrCatholicSecondary School,whichhasbeena fullcirclemonumentalachievementaswe havebeen able toprovide thesupportandcommunityforthosewhoarecomingafterme. Not only did I acquire funding support from the Toronto Foundation and the Peter Gilgan Foundation but I was also able to form a partnership with the University of Toronto’s Black Medical Students Association, whose members willparticipateastutorsandmentorsforstudentsatFatherHenryCarr. PriortoherworkatRiseInSTEM,shesupportedWomen’sHealthInWomen’s HandsCommunityHealthCentreastheProjectCoordinatorfortheYoungBlack Women’s Anti-Racism Insights to Action Study. It was through this initiative that she had the opportunity to apply her research knowledge and skills from hermaster’seducationtoleadateamof6youngwomentoconductresearchon ourexperiences.

MRS.CHRISTIANANUAMAH - COMMUNITYLEADERSHIP

Mrs. Christiana Nuamah’s remarkable journey from Ghana to Canada in the 1980s exempliﬁes her preference for action with tangible results ratherthanpromisesandwords.Heroutstanding career as a Canadian banker, dedication to preserving Ga-Adangbe and Ghanaian culture, and commitment to community service have made her a recognized leader. Christiana is a catalyst for change, a cultural ambassador, and adrivingforceforyouthandfuturegenerations.

While advancing her banking career, Christiana also passionately advocated for the preservation andpromotionofGa-Dangbeculture.Veryactive intheGhanaianCanadianCommunity:Ghanaian Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO). She worked to foster unity among diverse communities, ensuring that her cultural heritage thrives. She also serves as a board member of the African Arts Institute in Ontario, Canada, promoting Africancultureandarts.

Christiana actively participates in the City of Brampton Heritage Board and leadsvariouscommunityoutreachprogramsthatprovidegrowthandmentorship opportunities, particularly for youth. Her eﬀorts help shape future leaders and buildstrongcommunityties.

As President of the Ga-AdangbeAssociation of Toronto and Chairperson of the CouncilofRepresentativesofGa-DangbeInternational(GDI)inNorthAmerica, Christiana strengthened the Ghanaian community and advocated for cultural preservation.

Her contributions have earned her numerous awards, acknowledging her impact onbothherprofessionalﬁeldandhercommunity.

As a loving mother and grandmother, Christiana’s legacy of service, leadership, andculturaladvocacycontinuestoinspirefuturegenerations.

EBENEZERINKUMSAH–COMMUNITYLEADERSHIP

Ebenezer Inkumsah has been at the forefront of promoting the history and contributions of Canadians of African heritage in the Simcoe CountyRegionforover25years.Heiscommitted to ensuringthattheCanadianschoolcurriculumis inclusive so that the stories and achievements of Black Canadians are represented and celebrated by all students. Fueled by this passion, he took on the challenge by founding the Afro Caribbean Multicultural Association, ﬁrst as a student at LaurentianUniversityandsubsequentlyduringhis post graduate studies at Georgian Campus. Later, heearnedaMaster’sdegree inCommunityHealth with a sub specialization inAddictions and Mental Health at the University of Toronto and is currently a PhD Candidate in Social Work at York University.

For this work; Ebenezer Inkumsah has received many awards and acknowledgementsfromtheBarriemunicipalcouncilandfromlocalprovincial andfederalparliamentarians.

KWAKUNUAKO–YOUTHLEADERSHIP

Kwaku Nuako was born in Toronto but raised in Ghana, his father from day one instilled the spirit of community in him. He was made to participate in almost everything social even possible as a child beforeleavingforGhanaat12.

Living in Ghanafor8 years taughthim a lot, leaving him well versed in the areas of arts, culture, and entertainment.

UponhisreturntoCanada,itwashisgoalnotonlytopreservetheculture,butto liftithigheramongsttheGhanaianandCanadiancommunityinCanada.Through thefollowingactivitiesandinitiatives,hehasbeenabletoachievethat.

1.President:GhanaStudentsAssociationofYorkUniversity2013-2015

2.InitiationofGhanaStudentsAssociationatRyersonUniversity

3.CreatedalargedatabaseofGhanaianCanadianpostsecondarystudents

4. The Gold Coast Experience: an annual celebration of independence amongst postsecondarystudentsandcommunitydisplaying allformsofculture.Thisran for3yearsunderthepresidencyofKwaku.

5.Miss Ghanaian Canadian:a beautypageantfocusedontheCanadiandiaspora ofGhana.Thiswasheldfor2consecutiveyearsunderthemanagementofKwaku. Integratedmultiplecommunitiesforgreatsuccess

6.BackToAfricaTours:aprogramintendedfordiasporanstovisitGhana

7.ANF: arecordlabelfoundedbyKwakuand fellowGhanaianartistFriyie that hasgainedinternationalrecognition

EMMANUELQUAYEJr.-COMMUNITYLEADERSHIP

Mr. Emmanuel Quaye Jr. is a highly respected leader within the Ghanaian Canadian community, known for his unwavering dedication and significant contributions over the past 25 years. His leadership roles have had a profound impact on the cultural and social fabric of the Ghanaian diaspora in Toronto, earning him recognition from both community members and the City of Toronto. Born in Accra, Ghana, Mr. Quaye Jr. attended the prestigiousAccraAcademy,wherehelaidthefoundationforhisfutureendeavours. His pursuit of higher education led him to England, where he graduated from Licentiate Business Management School. After completing his studies, he migratedtoCanada,wherehecontinuedhiseducationattheUniversityofToronto. Mr. Quaye Jr.’s commitment to his community is evident in his extensive involvement in various leadership roles. As the former president of the Ga AdangbeAssociation of Toronto (GADAT), and also the former Vice President oftheGa-Adangbeinternational(GDI)(Canada/USA)heplayedapivotalrolein promotingandpreservingtheculturalheritageoftheGaAdangbepeopleinCanada. His leadership extended to the sports arena, where he served as the Chairman of the Scarborough Soccer Club, fostering camaraderie and athletic excellence within the community. Presently, Mr. Quaye Jr. holds the esteemed position of Chairman of the Ghanaian Canadian Association Heritage and Resource Centre. In this role, he continues to champion the preservation and promotion of Ghanaian culture, providingvaluable resourcesand supporttotheGhanaianCanadiancommunity. Mr. Quaye Jr.’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and service. His work has not only strengthened the bonds within the Ghanaian community in Canada but has also ensured that future generations have a solid foundation on which to build. His vision of a united, thriving community continues to guide his efforts, making him a revered figure within the diaspora. Withacareerspanningover25years,Mr.EmmanuelQuayeJr.remainsapillarof theGhanaianCanadiancommunity.Hisleadership,vision,andcommitmenthave leftanindeliblemark,inspiringotherstofollowinhisfootstepsandcontributeto thegrowthanddevelopmentoftheircommunity.

RECIPIENTS

MARYFOSU–COMMUNITYBUSINESS

Mary Fosu was born in Ghana, West Africa and migrated to Canada in 1978 to join her husband. Notlongafter,shewasblessedwith3children.

Sheobtainedherhairdressinglicenseandopened her ﬁrst hair salon in the mid 1980s in Toronto. Due to popular demand, Mary decided to open a secondsalonintheNiagaraFallsarea,whichwas asuccess.

In2010,despiteherpassionforhairdressing,shedecidedtoleavetheindustryand venturedintostartingherownjewelleryline,KabaJewellery.Herintricatepieces and designs drew the attention of many people from politicians, personalities to musicians;Arlene Perly Rae (Former mayor of Toronto’s wife), Patricia Mawa (planetAfrica), Jaqueline Dixon (Meet the Motivators),Yvonne Chaka Chaka ( SouthAfricansingerandsongwriter)andmanymore.

Mrs.Fosu,ﬁndspleasureinsharingherknowledge,hospitalityandsupportingthe lessprivileged.Forthat,shehasreceivedrecognitionforherhardworkandearned numerous awards because of her excellent business practices and dedication in helping those who are less fortunate. She received awards such as the 2004 Mother and Child Award, 2005 Ghanaian News Business Award, 2009 Family of Today for Tomorrow Parental Award and the 2010 Ghanaian Community Award tonameafew.

Todate,Maryisassistingfamilies,thedisabled,orphansandwidowsinGhana byprovidingthemwithbasicnecessitiesandﬁnancialsupport.

AFRICANSAFARITROPICALMARKET

What began as a quick buy, renovate and sell has become a thriving family business for the twenty year beginning with Express Grocery Store.

In 1904, we stumbled on a Caribbean store at 1712 Jane Street. The old owner was one of my husband customer who use to buy phone cards from him. He asked my husband to purchase his business because he was red, and the business was going down. With consulta on and advice, we decidedtobuy,renovateandsellforaquickturnover. Duringtherenova onmy husband asked me to supervise the workers so I realised that the old customers keep knocking on the door wan ng to purchase foodstuﬀ.

I was a daycare teacher at that me working for the city of Toronto so I was not looking forward to change my profession. But I witnessed from the old customers was encouraging. Lucky for me I was on maternity leave so I asked my husband to give it a try.

We started restocking. My ﬁrst two employees were my two children Joshua and Asantewaa who were eighteen and six months respec vely. It was not an easy task. But with hard work and pa ence this one small corner store has expanded to become three branches. Two main retail outlets and a wholesale distribu on centre: Express Tropical Market, African Safari Market and Safari (Obuasi) Markey. To God be the glory

George Amoako is an accredited Insurance Practitioner with over 30 yrs experience Canada. He is the President and Founder of First Choice InsuranceBrokersinAjaxandholdstheprestigious CAIB designation. We specialize in Business, Commercial, Home, Professional Liability, Life and Auto Insurance. We thank the Ghanaian Communityfortheirsupportandlookingforward tooﬀeringourserviceswithexcellentadvicewithcompetitivepremiums.

ANGELINAASANTE-NIMAKO - COMMUNITYBUSINESS

Angelina Asante-Nimako was born in Ghana. She completed her training in psychiatric andgeneralnursingattheAnkaful Nursingtraining school, Cape Coast in 1973 and worked brieﬂy at Ankaful Mental hospital until 1982 when she temporary moved to Lagos Nigeria to work as a nurseinvarioushospitals.

InDecember1987,AngelinamigratedtoCanada.On arrival in Canada, she worked for a short period with manufacturing company FitzgeraldMcAvoyWiregoodslimitedasawarehousehelper.

She later completed a refresher course to her training in nursing at the Seneca CollegeofAppliedArtsandTechnologyandgraduatedinDecember1993. Followinghergraduation,Angelinaworkedbrieﬂyatsomehomecareinstitutions, providinghealthandnursingcaretotheaged.

She has always been interested in trading at very young age, even when in the primaryschoolassistinghermotherinhertrade.Soitwasnotdiﬃcultforherto decidetobeastay-at-homemumtakingCAREofheryoungandgrowingfamily whilsttradingonthesidetoprovidesupporttoherfamilyaswell.

Angelina decided then to pursue her second passion as a business entrepreneur whichledhertotheshippingandfreightforwarding/servicesbusiness.

Angelina is the CEO of Micangel Global Inc., a company that has successfully been in the shipping/freight forwarding business since May 2003, withcurrentoﬃceat81KelﬁeldStreet,Unit2,Etobicoke,Ontario.

Angelina,popularlyknownasLadyAngie,hasbeenblessedwithsevenchildren, fourboys,threegirlsandabelovedhusband.

Anthony Behome, a remarkable 10-year-old, has impressedtheGhanaian-Canadiancommunitywith his exceptional piano skills and rare gift of perfect pitch. Nurtured from infancy by his parents and guided by his father’s formal lessons,Anthony has developedaprofoundmusicaltalent.Hisdedication, supported by his mother’s encouragement and his grandfather, Mr. John Ahoni’s celebration of his achievements aftereveryrecital,hasledtomastery of complex classical and contemporary pieces.

Anthony’suniquegiftofperfectpitch,sharedbyonlyonein10,000people,sets himapart.Now,atjust10,henotonlyplaysatcommunityeventsbutalsoinspires his two younger sisters, who joyfully hum along during his practice sessions. Looking ahead, Anthony aspires to be a world-class musician and merge his loveformusicwithafuturecareerinmedicine,followinginthefootstepsofhis lategrandfatherDr.AnthonyBehome.Withhisexceptionaltalentandambition, AnthonyBehomeistrulyaprodigyinthemaking.

GEORGEAMOAKOH-COMMUNITYBUSINESS

ANTHONYBEHOME-YOUNGTALENT

APOSTLEALEXAGYEI

RECIPIENTS

DWAMENA- RELIGION/OUTREACH

Rev. Dr. Alex Agyei-Gyamera is a senior pastor, apostle andArea head at The Church of Pentecost Canada.Hesupervises11pastorsfromNewFound land, Montreal, Ottawa, Scarborough, Oakville, Hamilton,London,Windsor,St.Catherine’s.

HeearnedaBachelorofScienceinAgricultureand Diploma in Education fromthe Universityof Cape Coastin1987.HealsoholdsMasterofDivinityand Doctor of Ministry degrees from Canada Christian College in 1998 and 2004 respectively.HehascertiﬁcateinFamilyMediationfromYorkUniversity.

Apostle Dr. Alex Agyei-Gyamera worked as a Chemical Technologist with the Ontario Ministry of environment from 1990 to 1996 and he was part of the Environmental team that worked hard to eliminate the acid rain which was destroyingmanyOntarioLakes.

In1999,hebecameafulltimepastoroftheChurchofPentecostCanadaserving God’s people and community for the past 25 years. He has demonstrated holistic service by empowering his church members and the communities he hasshepherdedworkinginMontreal,Hamilton,Toronto,Brampton,Mississauga, Scarborough, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon, Newfounland,Halifaxovertheyears.

HewasafoundingmemberofGhanaianCommunityAssociationsandGhanaian PastorsAssociation in Montreal and Toronto working with community leaders likeMr.Duku,Mr.Arhinful,Mr.AgbokuandDr.Laryea.

In 2002-2008, when black on black shootings were killing young Ghanaians in GTA, he partnered with the Superior Court of Ontario to establish a program of restoration and social integration called “Jonah’s Passage”. Under this program, young oﬀenders were released from prison to the care of Jonah Passage for counseling and educational mentorship which successfully freed up many of them gang in the community. This initiative attracted the attention of the Provincial government and thereby giving a grant of $70,000.000 for the program. The Toronto PoliceAssociation of Police led by Oﬃcer Ojo also recognizedRev.Alex’scontributionincombatingblackonblackkillings.

Today some of these young people who became recipient of the “Jonah’s Passage”aremanagers,doctorsandlawyerscontributingpositivelyinCanadian society.

Aps. Agyei-Gyamera is happily married to Mrs. Love Agyei-Gyamera for the past37years.Theyareblessedwithfourbeautifulandentrepreneurialdaughters Doreen,Marian,Abigail,AlexisandagrandsonIsaiah. HemigratedtoCanadain1988wherehehaslivedwithhisfamilytillnow.

Rev Milton Oﬀei attended Cape-Coast Polytechnic.inGhana.Afterhis graduationfrom Polytechnic, he had the opportunity to work at the CocoaProcessingCompanyatTema. Rev. Oﬀei had a call of God on his life and he obedientlyheededtothecallbyattendingThe AssembliesofGodTheologicalSeminaryforhis bibletrainingin1989.

After completing his bible school he became the Founding Pastor of the Living Foundation AssemblyofGodChurchinAccra.

He was transferred from Ghana to Pastor the Ghana Assembly of God Church which is currently known as Light HouseAssembly of God church in TorontoCanadafromDecember4,1998,toOctober2003.HecametoestablishEvangel AssemblyofGodchurch, Etobicoke,CanadafromOctober2003tillnowandhe istheChairmanoftheAssembliesofGodchurchesinCanada

PRINCEAMEYAWKTYERE(COBIKAY) CONTEMPORARYMUSIC

Cobbi Kay is a rising star in the Afrobeat music scene, known for his unique blend of African rhythms and western inﬂuences. His journey in music began in the beginning of 2021 during the globalpandemic,aperiodthatsawhimturningto music as an escape from the stresses of the time. Despitethechallenges,Cobbi’spassionandtalent quickly shone through, allowing himto carve out anicheforhimselfinthemusicindustry.

Since his debut, Cobbi Kay has released a full-length album, an EP, and severalsingles,eachshowcasing hisinnovativesound andmusicalversatility. His ability to seamlessly fuse traditional African sounds with contemporary western styles has earned him a growing fanbase and increasing popularity bothwithinandoutsideAfrica.

CobbiKay’stalenthasnotgoneunnoticedbyhispeers,leadingtocollaborations with several international artists. These collaborations have not only enriched his musical repertoire but have also helped him gain exposure to a broader audience. Additionally, he has made guest appearances on various projects, furtherestablishinghispresenceinthemusicindustry.

Cobbi Kay is currently promoting his latest album, “Outset,” a project that embodies his musical journey and evolution. The album is available for streaming on all major platforms and is already receiving positive reviews fromfansandcriticsalike.

Withhisinnovativesoundandgrowingpopularity,CobbiKayispoisedtomake a signiﬁcant impact on the global music scene. As he continues to push the boundaries ofAfrobeat, his future in the industry looks incredibly promising. Keep an ear out for Cobbi Kay—his music is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide.

StephenMensahistheExecutiveDirectoroftheTorontoYouthCabinet,andbringsarichanddiversebackgroundtohisadvocacy work,shapedinpartbyhisformativeyearsspentinGhana.BorninToronto,Stephen’strajectorytookanenrichingturnduringhigh schoolwhenhespentthreetransformativeyearsreconnectingwithhisfamilialrootsinGhana.

LivinginGhanaprovidedStephenwithinvaluableinsightsintohisculturalheritage,familialconnections,andsocietaldynamics, fuelinghispassionforsocialjusticeandequity.Immersedinanewenvironment,hedeepenedhisunderstandingofglobalissues. Thisexperiencebroadenedhisworldviewandstrengthenedhissenseofidentity.

UponreturningtoToronto,StephenchannelledhisexperiencesfromGhanaintohisadvocacyeﬀorts.Asthevoiceofover623,000 youngTorontonians,hetirelesslyadvocatesforamoreequitableandyouth-friendlycity.

Underhisleadership,theTYChasemergedasapowerfulcatalystforchange,spearheadinginitiativestoaddresspressingissuessuch ascommunitysafetyandyouthunemployment.

Notableaccomplishmentsduringhistenureincludesecuringanadditional$15millionininvestmentsforyouthprogramsandestablishing5newyouthhubsinToronto. Hisimpactextendsbeyondcityborders,influencingpolicychangesthatbenefitOntario’s2millionstudents.Stephen’sadvocacyhasresultedinsignificant milestones,includingspearheadingtheintroductionoffreemenstrualproductsinOntarioschoolstoensurenostudentfacesbarrierstoeducationdueto menstruation.Hehasalsobeeninstrumentalinaddressingsystemicracismineducation,advocatingformeasurestocombatanti-Blackandanti-Indigenousracism intheschoolsystemsuchaspushingforde-streaminginOntario’scurriculum.Additionally,hehaschampionedmeasurestodealwiththerisingyouthmental healthcrisissuchaspushingformandatorymentalhealthliteracyandtrainingforschoolstaffandhehassecuredmillionsofadditionalinvestmentstosupportyouthmental well-being.

Stephen’sdedicationhasearnedhimrecognitionasoneofToronto’sRisingStarsbyTorontoLifeMagazineaspartoftheir50MostInﬂuentialTorontonianslist.

REVMILTONOFEI-RELIGION/OUTREACH

STEPHENMENSAH- COMMUNITYIMPACT

YONKODORASSOCIATIONOFCANADA

GROUPOFTHEYEAR

RECIPIENTS

YonkodorAssociationofCanadawasadreamﬁrstbornbyayoungladylivingin

Ghana This lady always knew that she wanted to make a diﬀerence in the lives ofothers.Shehadavisionthatnomatterwhathappensinlifeshewouldalways wanttohelpotherpeople.

Surely enough, when she was blessed to travel, she started doing donations to childreninorphanages,towidowsandelderlyindividualsinGhana.Shedidthat formanyyearsonherownbutlaterrealizedthatifshehadmorepeoplewhoalso wantedtodothesameashertheycouldaccomplishmore. In2003,over20yearsago,agroupcalled“GirlsGirls”wasstartedwithherand afewfriends.Theywereabout10to15ofthem.

With the vision and passion for helping and donating to the less fortunate. The whole idea was to start a group that they would all work together and help. They did as much as they could but this lady always wanted to do more for her communityinGhanaandinCanada.

In 2018, she wanted to expand and grow this group and create an organization that would share friendship and love by giving and helping. So she called dear Friend Sister Mercy Appiah Kubi, who is now the Assistant Co-Founder, and told her about the idea and she so happily agreed to join her in making the now knownAssocationcalled,“YonkodorAssociationofCanada”possible!

The lady, VidashAdarkwah is the founder (CEO) and MercyAppiah Kubi (CoFounder) and the many individuals who are on the executive team and in the association, strive to make sure that they always support the vision that initially startedTheYonkodorAssocationofCanada.

“Yonkodor”isanAkansayingorwordmeaning“Friendshipandlove”.Ourlogois animageofatraditionalbroom.ItsymbolizestheAkanProverbthatsays“Praye, sewoyibaakoanaebu,wokabomua,emmu”meaning“whenyouremoveastick fromabroomitcanbebroken,butwhenyouputittogetheritcannotbreak.”That wastheideaoffriendscomingtogetherandworkingtogethertomakeadiﬀerence.

OurMotois:“Yonkodordɔ,biakoyɛ!Yonkodɔ!Odonkoaanaɛyɛ!

By2020theYonkodorAssocationofCanadawasgrowingfastandmanywomen andmenjoinedandsharedideasastohowthegroupcouldbemademoreeﬃcient. TheninMarch of 2020Covid hit the entireworld andpeoplewerestuckinside. Elderly individuals could not go outside with the fear of getting covid-19. TheYonkodorAssoctaion came together and stared distributing Food and items to the community that could not help themselves. It was an amazing thing to do atsuchadiﬃcultandscarytime.Buttheydidnotgiveup Today, 2024, The Yonkodor Association has about 80 members who are all talentedintheirownwaysandbringamazingideastotheassociation,astohow it can continue to help each other and the Ghanaian community in Canada and to also continue helping those in Ghana especially orphans and widows and our elderswhoarenotabletotakecareofthemselves.

YonkodorAssocation’svisionsstillstandstodayandthatistohelpwitheventhelittle thatwehave,andwecontinuetosay“Yonkodor,biakoyɛ!Yonkodɔ!Odonkoaana ɛyɛ!

KWADWOTAWIAH(MILO)-MEDIA

Prince Kwadwo Tawiah, Popularly known in the showbiz industry as MILO, have 15 years of experience in journalism, currently operating a YouTube channel called MILO TV GH.

Have established a team in Canada called International Students Soccer Team

Juliana Arkoh, a 27- year-old Ghanaian Weight/powelifting athlete. Born in Accra, to the late Akosua Ntiriwa from Akuapim Abiriw and my dad Philip Kingsley Ansah from Mankessim. a studentofKwameNkrumahUniversityof Science and Technology. (BA Sociology)

Have a Higher National Diploma in Secretary and Management Studies from Accra Technical University. My sporting career has taken me to diﬀerent parts of the world where I have altogether won a trophy, 16 medals (5 gold medals, 9 silver medals and 2 bronze medals) so far for both the Ghana Weightlifting Federation (2010 – 2014) and the Ghana Powerlifting Federation (2019 – to date).

Have also received Awards from SWAG, 2013 best lifter of the year, National Sports Authority, Ghandour women in sports 2021 and Krobo BeatsBank2022

SARKIALHAJIABDULLAHABUBAKAR(LARRY)

ZUMUMTAAFRICANMUSLIMASSOCIATIONOFCANADA CULTURALPROMOTION

Zumunta African Muslims Association of Canada is a Charitable organization that promotes the values, cultural and interest of African Muslims in Canada since1992.Wedealwithissueslikeimmigrationandrefugeematters,Orientation and Settlement, Religious and Secular education and other issues that are relevant for the promotion of community development and multiculturalism. Zumunta has more than six thousand members across Canada, and represents more than two thousand members, most of who reside and work in the Greater Toronto Area. Zumunta represents the mosaic and diversity of GTA.

November2017ZumuntahostedherExcellencyGhanasecondladySamiraBawumia

August 19 2023 Zumunta made a history of installation ﬁrst Zongo Chief in Canada, Sarki Alhaji Abdullah Abubakar Larry, and his Cabinet.

December 2023 HON.MUNTAKAMUBARAK attended Zumunta END of the yearSymposiumwithotherdignitaries

PRINCE

JULIANAARKOH–SPORTS

CATEGORIES2023

CANADIANACHIEVEMENTAWARDS

1.CommunityService/Voluntarism: Personswhohaveconsistentlyvolunteeredtheirtimeforaminimumoftwoyearstoa projectorcauseinourcommunityorthelargerCanadiansocietywhichhascontributedtothequalityoflifeofourcommunity and/orCanadiansociety.Thiswillalsoincludethosewhohaveconsistentlyengagedincharitableventures.

2.ProfessionalExcellence:Acontinuousdisplayofprofessionalcompetenceandexcellence,devoidofanyethicalviolationsin aperson’sprofessionalﬁeldofpracticewhichcanserveasamodelforotherprofessionalsinourcommunity.

3. Academic Excellence: Top class performance in academic pursuits at various levels of the educational ladder from High Schools,Colleges(CEGEPinQuebec),Universityorvocational/Professionaltraining.

4. Cultural Promotion:An Individual, group or organization which has worked consistently to promote Ghanaian culture for visiblerecognitioninCanadiansociety.

5.Music,ArtsandEntertainment/Film&VideoProduction:IndividualorgroupartisteslivinginCanadawhohave consistentlyexcelledandpromotedGhanaian music,Artsorotherentertainmentactivitiestointernationalrecognitionlevels overthepastﬁveyears.

6.Sports:Aconsistentperformanceandachievementinthesportssectorwhichhaswonnation-widerecognitionandthusbrought honourtoourcommunity.

7. Community Business: Individuals or groups whose pioneering eﬀorts in the business sector have spurred on and motivated othercommunitymemberstoventureintothebusinessﬁeld.

8.. Religion: Church groups or Religious organizations that have promoted religious and moral values in our community over thepastﬁveyears

9. Media: Any individual or group of community media persons who have celledin their ﬁeld and thusbrought honour to our communityandtoCanadiansociety.

10. CommunityLeadership: Thisawardwillgotoanindividualwhohaveprovidedresponsibleandeﬀectiveleadershipin variousaspectsofourcommunitylife.

11. Entrepreneur: Anyindividualorbusinessenterprisewithinourcommunitywhohaveworkedinnovativelytoestablisha thrivingbusinessthatcontributestotheﬁnancialwell-beingofourcommunityandCanadiansociety.

12. Heroism: Anyindividualwhohaveengagedinanyactsofbraverytosavelivesorpresentthedestructionofproperty.

13. YoungTalent: Thisawardisgiventoyoungperson(especiallyundertheageof18)inourcommunitywhoexhibit exceptionaltalenttowardscommunityornationaldevelopment.

14. GroupoftheYear: ThiscategoryrecognizestheeﬀortsofverydedicatedgroupofGhanaiansCanadianAssociations whoworktirelesslybehindthescenestomakeourcommunitybetter. Thesearethosewhotoildayandnightselﬂessly,often avoidingrecognitionandthespotlightandatgreatcoststothemselvesinmanyaspectsofourcommunity’slife. Theyget involvedincommunityandnationaleventswithjustonecardinalprinciple:thebettermentofourcommunity

15. Education:AnyAcademicinourourCommunitywhohascontributedinverysigniﬁcantwaystotheories/Researchand knowledgeinEducation.

16. TechnicalInnovation: Individualsorgroupofpersons/organizationswhohavenewinventionsorpatentsintheareaof technicaladvancement

17. PersonoftheYear:Thiscategoryrecognizestheeﬀortsofaverydedicatedpersoninourcommunitywhoworkstirelessly behindthescenestomakeourcommunitybetter.Thesearethosewhotoildayandnightselﬂessly,oftenavoidingrecognition andspotlightandatgreatpersonalcosttothemselvesinmanyaspectsofourcommunity’slife.Theygetinvolvedincommunity projectsandeventswithjustonecardinalprinciple:thebettermentofourcommunity.

18. NationalHonor: AGhanaianCanadianwhosework/contributionshavebeenrecognizednationallyinCanadaandthus broughtrecognitionandpridetoourcommunity

19.SpecialAward:AGhanaianoraFriendoftheGhanaian-CanadianCommunitywhosework/contributionshavebeen recognizedinternationallyandthusbroughtrecognitionandpridetoourGhanaianCanadiancommunityortoourMotherland.

21YearsofExperienceinFamilyLaw

MemberoftheLawSocietyofUpperCanada,YorkRegionFamilyLaw Association,DutyCounselfor47SheppardAvenueCourt,Experience inDealingwithDomesticViolenceCases,FormerLawyerforMen’s DivorceCentre,MemberofLegalAidAppealsCommittee

JAKLEGALCONSULTANCY

Professionalsspecializedinthefollowingareasofpractice:

ImmigrationLaw OtherPracticeAreas

*FamilyClassSponsorships*UncontestedDivorce

*Sponsorshipappeals*SmallClaimsCourtMatters *RefugeeClaims*LandlordandTenantMatters

*HumanitarianApplications*PowerofAttorney *InvitationLetters *AgreementsandWills *Visaextensions *BankruptcyConsultation

*WorkandStudyPermits

JamesA.Kwaateng,B.A.(Hons);LLB(Hons);CCIC Legalconsultant;CommissionerofOaths Tel.(416)743-2758Fax:(416)743-7027

168AOakdaleRd.,Suite4,Toronto,Ontario,M3N2S5.

Owusu

REAL ESTATE LAW

Buying a home may be the most important investment in your life. We ensure that it is done properly

* Buying and selling your home

* Transfers of property

* Placing Mortgages, Refinancing

FAMILYLAW Divorce Custody,Accessand Support Separation ChildrenAidCases

AdultCriminalCode oﬀences YouthCriminalJustice Act(YoungOﬀenders)

Sponsorships SponsorshipAppeals Humanitarianand CompassionateCases

Also:Wills,PowersofAttorney,ForeignDivorceOpinions,Aﬃdavits andDeclarations,CertifyingandNotarisingdocuments

DEALINGWITHIN-LAWSAND CONFLICTRESOLUTION

ByDorisOseiBonsu,Toronto,ON

Most people struggle with in-law issues on some level. For instance, you might feel like your in-laws don’t acceptyou or they’re overly critical of your spouse. Or they have an opinion on everything from where you live to howyouparentyourkids.

Having diﬃculties with your in-laws doesn’t mean you’re in an unhealthy relationshipwiththem.

It is just like any other conflict;havingconflictdoesn’tderaila relationship.Buthandlingitbadlycan. And the same is true for difficulties withyourin-laws.Whatmattersishow youhandlethesechallenges.

I believe that healthy couples deal with their in-laws by recognizing that they are different people with different ways,” “Families have their own culture,’. Healthy couples remember that this culture isn’t “bad or wrong, butdifferent.

You don’t just marry your spouse ... you marry their family. And that can be diﬃcult; there we should learn how to set healthy boundaries and love our in-laws.

Asanin-law,youhavearoletoplayin the life of your child or children who aremarriedtoothers.

Buthowdoyoudothisasanin-law?

Do you do it in a way that will not leadtoconﬂict?

Now, it is interesting to know that we don’tgettochooseourin-laws. They’re a package deal that comes with our partners we marry. Hence, they may be incredibly be reactive or overbearing.

They may also love to blame others. They’re sometimes likely to be controlling, especially for the mother

Areas of Specialization:

ImmigrationHearings

ForeignSponsorship&Appeals

ApplicationsfrominsideCanada

Humanitarian&CompassionateCases

DetentionReviews&DeportationOrderCases

VisaExtensions

FederalSkilledWorkerApplications

FamilyClassSponsorships

StudentVisa

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SocietyofImmigrationConsultants

in-laws.

That is not to say that all in-laws are likethat.Therearesomethatarereally good and have helped to grow and shape the marriage of their childrenso well.

The point is, in-laws sometimes feel threatened by you.(spouse) “You have come into their oﬀspring’s life and you might take them away from them”.

In addition, that long time bond between in laws and their children has beentamperedwithbecauseofyouthe wifeorhusband.

Inthatcase,thereisapossibilitytohave a loving and generous but controlling mother-in-law and one who purposely sows seeds of discord, points ﬁngers, andisverballyabusive.

So how do you manage these things whenthey unfortunately come up in yourmarriage?

Sometimesinyourdating/relationship, you happen to even see those red ﬂags. What do you do before they end up becoming your in-law in a full marriage?

In this article, I will be looking at just two areas and we can open it up for a discussion.

First, what leads to the causes of these challenges associated with inlawsinmarriage

Second:how can we manage those challengesthat arise betweenusand ourin-laws?

Before,Ibegin,Iwouldﬁrstofallwant to outline a few characteristics of a *good in law* that we will all perhaps desirefor.

1)Weallwishthatourinlawswould listentoussincewearenowmarried totheirchild.

cont’donpg.38

SUPPORTTHE CHRIS CAMPBELLPERSEVERANCEAWARD

ByEmmanuelAyiku,Toronto,ON

Mr. Chris Campbell, the Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Carpenters’ District Council of Ontario, and a member of the George Brown College Foundation Board of Directors, has created a new endowment scholarship for ConstructionandTradesstudentsatGeorgeBrown College.

Beginningin2023,theChrisCampbellPerseverance Award will support full-time students enrolled at the Angelo DelZotto School of Construction Management and the School of Apprenticeship and SkilledTrades at the Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies. These programs oﬀer hands-on training that provide the technical expertise and the skills critical to excel in these industries. Furthermore, this awardwill highlight and recognize the achievements of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) students in these programs, who demonstrate passion and commitment to their ﬁeld of study through their extra-curricular activities, volunteer work, and involvementintheclassroom.

ChrisCampbell,

Please considerdonating to this scholarship fund today. Tax receipts are available for eligible donations.

For additional information, please contact Gabriella Goutam at the George Brown College Foundation at gabriella.goutam@georgebrown. caor416-415-5000ext.3289.

Positivethinking:Askillforstressrelief

ByDavidYawTwum-Barima,MD,MSc,FRCPC

As we begin a NewYear, I will like to share with our readers some important tips to improve their quality of life. Stress is universal. Everybody has stressintheirlivesbuthowyouhandle it can make a big diﬀerence. For example is your glass half-empty or half-full?Howyouanswerthisage-old question may reﬂect your outlook on life and whether you’re optimistic or pessimistic.

Unfortunately a lot of Ghanaians are for one reason or other pessimists, we tend to worry too much about failures and not celebrate our successes. The best example is our attitudes towards funerals (which we celebrate to the extreme) and new births (which we takeforgrantedandtotallyignore).

How many times have you and your friendstalkedabouthowwellyourkids aredoinginschooleitheracademically or on the athletic ﬁeld? If you are like most Ghanaians then the answer is probably never or very rarely. Yet we all spendhourstalking about Kwesior Abena’sbadgrades!

Stress management requires a positive perspective — knowing how to turn pessimismintooptimism.

In fact, studies show that these personality traits —optimism and pessimism — can aﬀect how well you liveandevenhowlongyoulive. Need an attitude adjustment? Find out how to reduce your stress by halting negative thoughts and practicing positiveself-talk.

Bepositive:Livelonger,livehealthier Self-talk is the endless stream of thoughts that run through your head every day. These automatic thoughts can be positive or negative. If the thoughtsthatrunthroughyourheadare mostly negative, your outlook on life is likely pessimistic. If your thoughts are mostly positive, you’re likely an optimist.

Some of your self-talk comes from logic and reason. Other self-talk may arise from misconceptions that you createbecauseoflackofinformation. Researchers continue to explore the eﬀects of optimism on health. The health beneﬁts optimism may provide are:

1Decreasedstress

2 Greater resistance to catching the commoncold

3Asense of well-being and improved health

4 Reduced risk of coronary artery disease

5 Breathing easier if you have chronic obstructive lung disease, such as emphysema

6 Improved coping ability for women withhigh-riskpregnancies

7Livinglonger

8Bettercopingskills

It’s unclear why optimists experience thesehealthbeneﬁts.Butonetheoryis that having a positive outlook enables you to cope better with stressful situations,whichreducesthe eﬀectsof stressonyourbody.

How to put apositive spinon negative thoughts

Self-talk — the inner monologue sometimes referred to as automatic thinking — can be positive or negative. When the theme of your self-talk is mostly negative, your own misperceptions, lack of information and distorted ideas have overpowered your capacity for logic and reason. But if you weed out misconceptions and irrational thinking and challenge them with rational, positive thoughts, your self-talk will gradually become realisticandself-aﬃrming. Some common forms of irrational thinkingare:

? Filtering. You magnify the negative aspects of a situation and ﬁlter out all of the positive ones. For example, you hadagreatdayatwork.Youcompleted your tasks ahead of time and were complimented for doing a speedy and thoroughjob.Butyouforgotoneminor step. That evening, you focus only on your oversight and forget about the complimentsyoureceived.

? Personalizing. When something bad occurs, you automatically blame yourself. For example, you hear that aneveningoutwithfriendsiscanceled and you assume that the change in plans is because no one wanted to be around you. It turns out that they were planning a surprise party for your birthday!

? Catastrophizing. You automatically anticipate the worst. You refuse to go out with friends for fear that you’ll makeafoolofyourself.Oronechange inyourdailyroutineleadsyoutothink thedaywillbeadisaster.

? Polarizing. You see things only as eithergoodorbad,or blackandwhite. There is no middle ground. You feel that you have to be perfect or you’re a totalfailure.

Here are fewthings you can doto turn negative thoughts into positive ones. Theprocessissimple,butittakestime andpractice.

Throughout the day, stop and evaluate what you’re thinking. If you ﬁnd that your thoughts are negative, try to ﬁnd awaytoputapositivespinonthem. Start by following one simple rule: Don’tsayanythingtoyourselfthatyou wouldn’tsaytoanyoneelse.

Examples of typical negative self-talk and how you might apply a positive twistinclude:

*Negativeself-talk

*Positivespin

*I’veneverdoneitbefore.

It’s an opportunity to learn something new.

*It’stoocomplicated.

Let’slookatitfromadiﬀerentangle.

*Idon’thavetheresources.

Necessityisthemotherofinvention.

*There’snotenoughtime.

*Let’sre-evaluatesomepriorities.

*There’snowayitwillwork.

*Icantrytomakeitwork.

*Idon’thavetheexpertise.

*I’llﬁndpeoplewhocanhelpme.

*It’sgoodenough.

There’salwaysroomforimprovement. It’stooradicalachange. Let’stakeachance. No one bothers to communicate with me.

I’ll see if I can open the channels of communication. I’mnotgoingtogetanybetteratthis. I’llgiveitonemoretry. I’mnevergoingtolearnhowtomanage mystress.

I’mgoingtotrytolearnhowtomanage mystress.

Practicemakesperfect

Ifyoutendtohave anegativeoutlook, don’t expect to become an optimist overnight.Buteventuallyyourself-talk will automatically contain less selfcriticismandmoreself-acceptance. Practicing positive self-talk will improveyouroutlook.Whenyourstate of mind is generally optimistic, you’re able to handle everyday stress in a realistic and constructive way. That ability may contribute to the widely observed health beneﬁts of being an optimist.

DealingwithIn-Lawsand ConﬂictResolution

cont’dfrompg.34

2)Weallwishthatourinlawswould not be over controlling and tell us whattodoinourmarriage.

3) We all wish that our in laws will limit the extent to which they are glued to their child and rather focus on their life since we are now married.

4) We all wish that our in-law will not be too spooky in our marriage andwillmindherownbusiness.

But mind you, though all these things we desire for from an in law may be good, it is important as well for us to understand that there is a strong bond thatliesbetweenparentsandtheirchild whichmakesitveryhardforthemtoeasily giveouttheirchildtosomeone.Especially atbirth,theumbilicalcordthatconnectsthe babyandthemother,thoughmaybecutat birthdoesnotendthatrelationshipmothers havefortheirchildren.

So,in-lawstendtofeelasenseof entitlementinrelationtotheirchild. Becausetheyknowthesuﬀeringand historytheywentthroughbeforetheirchild cameintotheworld.

Therefore,anybodythatcomesintothe marriageandtriestostealwhattheyhave guardedforyearsfromthembecomesa hugethreattoin-laws.

2)Anothercauseforthesechallengesin lawshavewithspousesiswhentrustis breached.Beforethemarriage,inlaws mighthaveseenthisyoungmanorwoman tobesoniceandcalmandthebestﬁtfortheir sonordaughter.However,aftermarriage, thisson-inlawordaughterinlawswitches up.Thetrustthatin-lawsmayhavehadfor thecoupleisnomoreandtheretendtobe someinsecurities.Thiswilldeﬁnitelycause in-lawstobeoverprotectiveandinterfering intheirchild’smarriages.

3)Anotherthingtooiswhen,thefrequent communicationthatparentspreviouslyuse tohavewiththeirdaughterorsonismissing. Nowthischildnolongercommunicates withtheparentsbutmorewiththespouse orpartner.In-lawstendtobehurtandatthe sametimeuncomfortableifthiswillhelp themarriage.Hence,resultinginchallenges betweenthemandthenewcouple.

4)Maybe,allthefinancialassistance andsupporttheyusetoreceivefromtheir daughterorsonevenbeforethemarriage iscutoff.NogiftsonMother’sDayor Father’sDay,notevenavisit.Allthese maystirupconflictsbetweenin-lawsand thespouse.

5)Yourspousemighthavespokenillabout theirmomordadtoyouandbecauseofthat youtakeonadiﬀerentlensofhowyounow relatewithyourin-laws.Thiscouldraise tensionaswellbetweenin-lawsandthe spouse.

Now,howcanwedealwiththese challengeswhentheyemergebetween in-lawsandspouses?

1)*Thereistheneedtosetboundaries* -in-lawsneedtounderstandthatassoon astheygiveouttheirchildformarriage, thenarrativehaschangedintermsof responsibilitiesandcommitments.They mustknowtheirboundariesandnotover step.Knowwhentovisit,knowwhento call,knowwhentointerfereindecisionsof thespouses.Doingthatdoesnotmeanyour childhasneglectedyoufortheirspousebut itisawayofhelpingtocommandrespectin therelationshipormarriageofyourchild.

2.Spousesmustalsoknowtheirboundaries andtreateachotherinawaysuchthatnone ofthespousewillfeelliketheyaremissing somethingtheirmomordadusetodobest forthem.

3)Again,in-lawsshouldalsotaketheir sonordaughterinlawastheirownchild andtreatthemassuch.Thiswouldhelp toreduceanykindoffrictionthatmay possiblyarise.

4)Thereshouldberespectonbothsides. Spousesmustrespecttheirinlawsandinlawsshouldalsorespectspouses.

5)Thereshouldnotbepre-conceived notionsthein-lawrelationship

6)Respectyourspouse’sattachments.“It helpstoseeyourspouse’sattachmentto hisfamilyassomethingtorespect,For, instance,ifyourhusband’sdailycallstohis dadareimportanttohim,it’salsoimportant foryoutoacceptandunderstand.

Yourin-lawsareimportanttoyourspouse, andthey’repartofyourlife,H.“It’sup tobothofyoutoﬁndawaytomakethe relationshipasenjoyableaspossible.”

PLACESOFWORSHIPDIRECTORY

GhanaMethodistChurchesinCanada

(SOCIETIESUNDERTHEGHANAMETHODISTCONFERENCE)

TheSuperintendentsMinister-In-Chargeinvitesyoutoworshipwithus

TorontoSociety

PlaceofWorship:69MilvanDrive,NorthYork,Ont.(FinchAv./Milvan) 416-743-4555(Oﬃce)905-216-2323(Residence)

DayandTimeofWorship:

Sunday:BibleClassMeeting: 10:00a.m.-10.30a.m.

ChurchService: 10:00a.m.-1:00p.m.

JerichoHourPrayerMeeting- 8:00p.m.-9:00p.m.

WednesdayMid-dayPrayer-1:00p.m.-2:00p.m.

Friday:BibleTeaching/PrayerMeeting8:00p.m.-9.00p.m.

SaturdayOrganizationalMeeting:6.30p.m.-9.30p.m.

SundayBramptonPrayerMeeting8:00p.m.

EdmontonMethodist

778-237-7339

OttawaMethodist

613-315-3443

BETHANYMETHODISTCHURCH-BRAMPTON

PLACEOFWORSHIP-1AKNIGHTSBRIGEROAD (Senior’sLounge)

SundayDivineService - 2PM-5PM

OnlinePrayerMeeting Fridaysat8PM-9PM 416-800-4317

Code#9632581

Contact:RobertFrans (289-541-5579) FelixGyimah(289-931-8443)

RedemptionMethodistChurch

Location:955WilsonAve.,Unit12,NorthYork,ON

WeeklyServiceSchedule:Monday7pm-8pm

OnlineBibleStudy:Thursday7pm-8:30pm,PrayerMeetingFriday7:30pm-9pm DivineService,Sundays10am-12:30pm

Contacts:AgnesDonkor-647-881-4808,FeliciaOwusu-647-533-1093,GraceKubi-647-608-5373

HolyTrinityMethodistChurch,Montreal

PlaceofWorship:455ChurchStreet-BeaconsﬁeldQcH9W3S6

DayandTimeofWorship

SundayDivineService:12:30p.m.-3:30p.m.

FridayPrayerMeetings:7:00p.m.-9:00p.m.

Contact:Bro.JoselinTwumasi438-881-6640

EbenezerMethodistChurch

StoneyCreekUnitedChurch(Chapel)

1KingStreetWest,StoneyCreek, Hamilton

Contact: Bro.KoﬁBonsu289-684-6074

WorshipTime:11amto1pm

PenielMethodist

ChurchVancouver #2322 124882Ave. Surrey,BC,V3W3E9 SisterComfortT.Owusu 647-895-7131

WorshipTime: 9amto10:30

SERVICESARECONDUCTEDFOLLOWINGTHETRADITIONALGHANAMETHODISTLITURGY.PLEASECOMEANDJOINUS.WEHAVEAPLACEFORYOU.GODRICHLYBLESSYOU

FOODFORLIFE

Bringingthe GospeltoourCommunity By Rev. Isaac De-Graft Takyi

THECHRISTIANIN2024:SUPPORTINGTHEGRIEVING:ACHRISTIANAPPROACH

QUOTES

“No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear. I am not afraid, but the sensation is like being afraid.” (From “AGriefObserved”) C.S. Lewis

“Grief, as I read somewhere, is a form of praise. It is the natural way lovehonorswhatitmisses.”Elisabeth Elliot

“Nothing can make up for the absence of someone whom we love, and it would be wrong to try to find a substitute; we must simply hold out and see it through. That sounds very hard at first, but at the same time it is a great consolation, for the gap, as long as it remains unfilled, preserves the bond between us.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer

“When life is hard and you are in the midst of diﬃcult circumstances, it’s easy to think that God doesn’t care. Butrememberthis:Hecaressomuch for you that He gave His only Son to die for you.” JoniEareckson Tada

“Occasionally weep deeply over the life you hoped would be. Grieve the losses. Then wash your face. Trust God.And embrace the life you have.”

John Piper

INTRODUCTION

Grief is a profound and complex experience that touches every aspect of a person’s life. As Christians, we are called to “mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15, NIV) and to provide comfort, love, and support to those who are grieving. Supporting someone through their grief is not only an act of compassion but also an expressionofourfaithinaction.

Hereare7Christianprinciplestoguide usaswewalkalongsidethosewhoare grieving.

1. BE PRESENT WITH COMPASSION

One of the most powerful ways to support someone who is grieving is simply to be present. The Bible shows us that Jesus Himself was moved by compassion when He saw others in pain. When Lazarus died, Jesus wept (John 11:35), even though He knew HewouldraiseLazarusfromthedead. Thisteachesusthatit’sokaytosharein thesorrowofothers,evenifwebelieve inthehopeofeternallife.

Being present means oﬀering a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or simply sitting quietly with someone in their pain. Your presence can be a reminder of God’s unfailing love and careduringtimesofdeepsorrow.

2.OFFERPRACTICALHELP

Griefcanmakeeventhesimplesttasks feel overwhelming. As Christians, we are called to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13). Oﬀering practical help—such as cooking meals, helping with household chores, or running errands—can relieve some of the burdensonagrievingperson.

Remember that grief doesn’t follow a speciﬁc timeline. Your oﬀer of practical help is just as important weeks or months after the loss as it is intheimmediateaftermath.

3. SPEAK WORDS OFCOMFORT ANDHOPE

The Bible is rich with promises of God’s comfort and hope. Sharing scripturethatspeakstoGod’spresence, love,andthehopeofeternallifecanbe a source of great comfort to someone who is grieving. Verses such as Psalm 34:18 (“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted”) and Revelation 21:4 (“He will wipe every tear from their eyes”) can remind the grieving person that God is near and that there is hope beyondthislife.

However, it’s important tobe sensitive with your words. Avoid clichés or platitudes that can seem dismissive of the person’s pain. Instead, oﬀer heartfelt words that acknowledge their sorrowwhilepointingthemtothehope wehaveinChrist.

4.ENCOURAGEREMEMBRANCE ANDEXPRESSION

Grieving individuals may ﬁnd comfort in remembering their loved one. Encouraging them to share stories, look through photos, or participate in activities that honor the memory of their loved one can be healing. The Bible often encourages remembrance, such as when God commanded the Israelites to set up memorial stones to remember His faithfulness (Joshua 4:1-7).

Additionally, allowing someone to express their grief openly, whether through talking, crying, or other means, is crucial. Grief is a process, and expressing it helps to process the loss.

5.PRAYWITHANDFORTHEM

Prayer is a powerful tool for bringing comfort and peace. Praying with a grieving person can bring them closer toGodandremindthemofHispresence in their darkest moments. Even when words fail, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express(Romans8:26).

Continuetoprayforthegrievingperson in private as well, asking God to give themstrength, peace, and comfort. Let themknowthattheyarebeingliftedup inprayerbytheirChristiancommunity.

6. RESPECT THEIR GRIEVING PROCESS

Grief is a deeply personal experience, andeveryonegrievesdiﬀerently.Some maywant totalkabouttheirloved one often, while others may withdraw for a time. Some may cry openly, while othersmayappearstoic.AsChristians,

we need to respect each person’s uniqueprocessandavoidimposingour expectationsonthem.

Instead, oﬀer unconditional love and support, allowing them the space to grieve in their own way and time. Remember thatGod isatworkintheir lives,eveninthemidstoftheirpain.

7. CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THEMOVERTIME

Grief doesn’t end after the funeral. In fact, the weeks and months following the loss can be the most challenging as the reality of the loss sets in. As a Christian community, we must continueto offersupportlongafterthe initial shock has worn off. Regularly check in, offer invitations to social gatherings, and continue to provide practicalhelpasneeded.

Your ongoing presence and support canbealifelinetosomeonenavigating thelongjourneyofgrief.

CONCLUSION

Supporting the grieving is a sacred responsibility for Christians. It is a way to embody the love of Christ and to be His hands and feet in the world. By being present, oﬀering practical help, speaking words of comfort, encouraging remembrance, praying, respecting the grieving process, and providing ongoing support, we can helpthosewhoaregrievingﬁndsolace andhopeinthemidstoftheirsorrow.

As we walk alongside those who mourn, let us remember the words of Jesus: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew5:4).Maywebeinstruments ofthat comfort, reﬂecting the love and compassionofourSavior.

ChurchOfChristGhanaianCongregation-Toronto

Address:101WestmoreDrive,Unit206,Etobicoke(Highway27/Finch)

TimeofWorship: 10am-12:15pm

Contact: Bro. Fordjour Acheampong: 416-671-4268

Bro. Agyenim Boateng: 647-656-9905 Bro. Christian Kpodjie: 647-405-2068

Email:churchofchristtwiservice@gmail.com

Lighthouse AssemblyofGodChurch

LeadPastor:Rev.NanaBoateng

SUNDAYSERVICES:

9:30am-1:00pm- GhanaianService

WEEKDAYSERVICES: Wednesday-BibleStudies7:00pm-9:00pm Friday - HolyGhostService 7:00pm-9:00pm

Rev.NanaBoateng

LOCATION: 42SteinwayBlvd.Unit1&2 (Hwy27/Steeles)Toronto,Ontario,M9W6Y6

Tel:416-740-1200 Fax:416-740-6435

Email: lighthouseagtoronto.org lighthouseag@outlook.com

GoodShepherdPrayerMinistry

Invitesyoualltocomeworshipwithus

Venue:95EddystoneAveunit4NorthYork,ON

Timeofworship: Sunday:10am-1pm

Wednesdaybiblestudies 7pm-9pm

FridayPrayer/Deliverance 7pm-9pm

Thethiefcomethnot,butfortosteal,andtokill,andtodestroy:Iamcome thattheymighthavelife,andthattheymighthaveitmoreabundantly.11.l amthegoodshepherd:thegoodshepherdgivethhislifeforthesheep.Amen. John10:10-11

Tel:416667-9763cell647500-4415/647718-4819/416300-4258

Email:pastorjsarfo@gmail.com

Iencourageyoutojoinusinworshipregardlessofyoursituationthepowerof Godisavailabletomakeyouwhole

Website:churchofchristghtoronto.com

CHRISTREDEEMERCHURCH

Pastor-in-charge:PastorEricAmoah

Tel:(416)748-1242 Cell:(416)

ChurchServices

SundayService: BibleStudy: 10a.m.-11a.m. WorshipService:11a.m.-1p.m. Wednesday: BibleStudy 6:30p.m.-7:30p.m. FridayNightPrayer:8p.m.-10p.m.

Location:14HaasRd.,#100,Etobicoke,ON,M9W3A2

Doyoudesiretoexperiencethepowerandthe presenceofGoddemonstratedinyourlife? Doyouwanttoexperiencethe marvelousworkofGod'sgraceinyourlife? Then,BethelPrayerMinistryInternational wouldliketoinviteyoutovisittheirchurch wherethewordofGodispreachedpowerfully toreleasethepowerofGodinyourlife.

COMEANDYOUWILLBEBLESSED PastorDennisAwuku SeniorPastor

Contact: Cell. 416-400-8211 Church 416-642-0390

WorshipHours: SundayService:9am-1pmTuesday9am-2pmConsultation

Wednesday:7pm-9p.m.Friday:9pm-12pm Saturday(PrayerWarriors)6pm-8pm

Location:52CarrierDrive,Unit12, (Albion/Hwy27) Etobicoke,Ont.,M9w5S5

Centre

JoinusonSundaysforWorshipat: Venue:161LakeshoreRoadW, Mississauga,ON Time:10:30am—1:30pm

Contact:Rev.IsaacK.Bonful Tel:289-814-5482

Email: transformationcentreag@gmail.com

Website: www. transformationcentreag.ca

Betransformedbytherenewingofyourmind…“Rom.12:2a

TheApostolicChurchInt'l.

MOVEDTONEW LOCATION

31AirviewRoad

MeetingSchedule

FridayPrayers -7:30p.m.-9:30p.m.

Friday:MonthlyAllNightService-10:00p.m.-2:00a.m.

Saturday:Movements- 5:00p.m.-7:30p.m.

Overcomingthechallengeoffeeling Un-Lovedandrejectedinyour relationships

cont’dfrompg.10

Corinthians:“Openyourhearts(receive us)(1Corinthians7:2).Ihavediscovered thatthemindisthekeytoopenthe heart.Onceyoumakeupyourmindabout someone(toreachouttotheoneornot)in apositiveornegativeway,youwilleither goallouttoopenyourhearttotheone,or continuallycloseyourhearttotheperson. Therearemenwhohadchildrenwiththeir wives,gavethemallthephysicalcare,and died,leavingbehindmoneyandproperty forthefamily.Butasthewifeandchildren stoodbytheircoﬃn,theyaskedintheir minds:“Whoreallyisthisman?”This isbecauseDearDaddy(DearHusband) neverreallyopenedhishearttothewife andchildren,andsothefamilyknewvery littleabouthisprivatelifeorhismindon variousissuesoflife.Youdonothaveto desire,admire,orhaveanyspecialliking foreverythinginthelifeofsomeone beforeyouacceptthepersonLearnthe secretofunconditionalacceptancewith thehelpofGod,whileyoustillmaintain yourintegrity,andgraduallyrelateto thepersonlovinglyandpatientlyuntil youbecomeanagentofchangeinthe person’slife,andcreateaconditionfor yourhearttoacceptthepersonmore

Youhavetoevaluatethetotalpersonon thebasisofGod’sloveforyouandforthe one.Ifheorsheissnobbish,mean,andunloving,thenyouneedtoexaminetheone closelyandunderstandthebasisofhisor herproblem,andnottaketheattitudetoo personallyasspecialhatredforyoualone, althoughthatcouldalsobetrueinsome instances.Aimatprayingforandhelping theonebybeingagoodexampleoflove andacceptance.Focusonthegoodthings youseeinthepersonnow;admirethose desirablequalities,anddevelopaheartof humilityandcompassionforthepersonas youinteractwiththeone,andwaitforGod toworkmoreinthatpersontotransform

himorherandproduceotherdesirable characteristicsthatarenotyetpresent.You willtherebydevelopanexcellentgodly characterthatwillhavethecapabilityto faceeverychallengeofloveandacceptance boldlyandeﬀectively.Youwillnotbecome avictimoftheconstantself-pityand downcastspiritofpeopleinrelationships thatiseatingthemupintheirprivatelives, andhasrenderedthemconfused,fearful, sorrowful,rejected,dejected,disappointed, andunproductive.Youcanrenewyourlove andlearnrealaﬀectionandendurancein yourrelationships,ifyoutapintoGod’s poweranddeterminetodevelopthemoral strengthinacceptingandbeingkindto thepartner,familymember,orfriendwho makesyoufeelun-lovedorunaccepted.

ByDr.SamuelKisseadoo,Professorof BiologyinVirginia.OrdainedLicensed Minister,InternationalEvangelist,and Author.RelationshipsMarriage& FamilyCounselor.E-mail:kisseadoo@ msn.com.Websiteforresources:www. fruitfulministriesint.com.TuneintoJOY 99.7FMinAccra,GhanatolistentoDr. Kisseadoo’sweeklybroadcast“HopeFor YourFamily”onSat.5:30am-6am,Ghana time(1:30am-2:00am,USEasternTimein March-Nov.).Accessthebroadcastonthe InternetwithMYJOYONLINE.COM.

Forfreecounseling,programs,prayer, messages,books,speakingengagements, callDr.KisseadooinVirginia,USA,on 1-757-7289330(orcall233-20-8126533 or233-276-322982inAccra,or233-275353802inKumasi,Ghana).GhanaFruitful MinistryE-mailis:fmighana.accra@ gmail.com.Call233-20-8209567inGhana toobtainadditionalrichinformationfrom Dr.Kisseadoos’sbooksinGhana.Usehis name“Dr.SamuelKisseadoo”tosearch: RedLeadBooks.comorAmazon.comfor someofhisbooks.Hecanpersonallymail somecopiestoyouaswell.

Faithleadersurgeprovincetoreverse‘deadlydecision’toclose 10superviseddrugconsumptionsites

Close to 250 faith leaders from across Ontario are pleading with the provincial government to reconsiderits“deadlydecision”toshutter10ofits17 supervised drug consumption sites (SCS) by March 2025 and create legislation that would prevent any newlocationsfromopening.

OnTuesday,severalmembersofthefaithcommunity deliveredalettertoPremierDougFordandOntario’s Minister of Health Sylvia Jones that urged them to reconsider this plan, which also includes limiting other harm reduction measures like safe supply and drugdecriminalization.

“We urge you, Premier Ford and Minister Jones, to reverse this decision, and to follow the advice of the expertreportswhichyouyourselvescommissioned,” thesignatorieswroteintheirletter.

“Ontario is currently in the midst of a deadly overdose crisis that claims one life every 8 hours. These safe consumption/overdose prevention sites are at the front-lines of this crisis, having reversed 21,000 overdoses since 2020. Without these sites, thousandsofpeoplewilldieentirelypreventableand unnecessarydeaths.”

Latelastmonth,theprovincialgovernmentannounced that it was banning supervised consumption sites within 200 metres of schools and/or child care centres.FivesitesinTorontoareaﬀected.

In place of SCSs, the province intends to open 19 Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs, which it previously said would oﬀer a “comprehensive system of care that prioritizes community safety and focuses on giving people their lives back through treatment and recovery, as well as upstream investments in prevention.” These transitionalhubs,however,willnotoﬀersafersupply, supervised drug consumption, sterile injection equipment,orneedleexchangeprograms.

The faith leaders noted that they aren’t against the hubs calling them “potentially welcome news” as there is a “very lengthy wait for substance use disordertreatment.”

“However, these hubs are not replacements for safe consumption and overdose prevention sites. You cannotbringadeadpersontorecovery,”theysaidin theletter.

SCS

BAN DUE TO ‘SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEMS,’SAYS PROVINCE

In an email on Tuesday afternoon, Ministry of HealthSpokespersonHannahJensentoldCTVNews Toronto the province agrees with “communities, parents, and families across Ontario” who say that the“presenceofdrugconsumptionsitesnearschools anddaycaresisleadingtoserioussafetyproblems.”

“That’swhyourgovernmentistakingactiontokeep communities safe, while supporting the recovery of thosestrugglingwithopioidaddiction,”shesaid.

“Werecognize Ontariansdeserve morethana health care system that is focused on providing people struggling with addiction with tools to use illegal drugs and our government is taking the next step to create a system of care that prioritizes community safety, treatment and recovery by investing $387 milliontocreateHARTHubs.”

Jensensaidthatthesenewhubsaresimilartoexisting models in the province that have “successfully providedpeoplewithcare.”

“(They)will reﬂectregionalprioritiesbyconnecting people with complex needs to comprehensive treatmentandpreventativeservices,includingmental health services, addiction support, primary care and supportive housing,” she said, adding that the 10 aﬀected SCS sites have the opportunity to convert into HARThubs.Applications arenow open, Jensen said. The Ministry said that it expects to approve someofthembytheendoftheyear.

Faith leaders, however, along with advocates and those directlyimpacted by the drugpoisoning crisis, said during a Tuesday news conference at Queen’s Park that this move by the province will only hurt Ontario’s most vulnerable residents and will lead

MembersofOntario'sfaithcommunityheldanewsconferenceatQueen'sParkonSept.17tocallontheprovincial governmenttoreverseitsdecisiontoclose10ofitssupervisedconsumptionsites.

to more people consuming drugs in public in increasinglyunsafeways.

They say faith is about leading with love and supportingpeoplewherethey’reatandareimploring the Premier to consider that and reverse course on thisplan.

“We who are standing on this stage and those who havesignedbelievethatharmreductionisawaythat we show and demonstrate that love,” said Bishop AndrewAsbiloftheAnglicanDioceseofToronto.

Rabbi Aaron Flanzraich, of Beth Shalom, called for a “clear and supportive policy that makes it understandable that people are seen as human beings.”

“If facts and ﬁgures and science, and data have all failed perhaps we have a chance to reach (Ford’s) humanity,” added Rev. Canon Maggie Helwig of St. Stephen-In-The-Field.

Jennifer Haier described herself as an addict of 30 years who has been clean for two thanks to the supportandcareoftheKensingtonMarketOverdose Prevention Site, which is slated for closure in the

springiftheprovince’splanmovesforward.

“Closing (that site) down, it’s gonna kill a lot of people.They’regonnadie.It’sgonnabeacrisis,”she saidtearfullyduringthenewsconference.

Haier noted that supervised consumption sites, like the one in Kensington Market where she went, are places thathelp people whousedrugs to “feel better about themselves” and in turn make healthier and safer decisions about the substances they use. She said they can also help lead people to connect with resourcesandseektreatment.

CTVNews

SIXSTARMOTORS

Frenchmanadmitstodrugging wifesothatheanddozensofmen

couldrapeher

Contentwarning:Thisarticlecontainsdisturbingcontent. Readerdiscretionisadvised.

AVIGNON, France — A 71-year-old French man acknowledged in court on Tuesday that over nearly a decade, he was drugging his wife at the time and inviting dozens of men to rape her, as well as raping her himself. He pleaded with her, and their three children, for forgiveness.

“Today I maintain that, along with the other men here, I am a rapist,″ Dominique Pélicot told the court. “Theykneweverything.Theycan’tsay otherwise.”

Dominique Pélicot’s testimony is the mostimportantmomentsofarinatrial that has shocked and gripped France, and raised new awareness about sexual violence. Many also hope his testimony will shed some light — to trytounderstandtheunthinkable.

While he previously confessed to investigators, the court testimony will be crucial for the panel of judges to decide on the fate of some 50 other men standing trial alongside him. Many deny having raped Gisèle Pélicot, saying they were manipulated by her then-husband or claiming they believedshewasconsenting.

Gisèle Pélicot has become a symbol of the ﬁght against sexual violence in France for agreeing to waive her anonymity in the case, letting the trial be public, and appearing openly in front of the media. She is expected to speak in court after her ex-husband’s testimonyonTuesday.

Under French law, the proceedings inside the courtroom cannot be ﬁlmed orphotographed.DominiquePélicotis brought to the court through a special entrance inaccessible for the media, because he and some other defendants are being held in custody during the trial.Defendantswhoarenotincustody come to the trial wearing surgical masks or hoods to avoid having their facesﬁlmedorphotographed.

After days of uncertainty due to his medical state, Dominique Pélicot appeared in court Tuesday and told judgesheacknowledgedallthecharges againsthim.

His much-awaited testimony was delayed by days after he fell ill, suﬀering from a kidney stone and urinaryinfection,hislawyerssaid.

Seated in a wheelchair, Pélicot spoke to the court for an hour, from his early life to years of abuse against his now ex-wife.

Expressing remorse, his voice trembling and at times barely audible, hesoughttoexplaineventsthathesaid scarred his childhood and planted the seedofviceinhim.

“Oneisnotbornapervert,onebecomes a pervert,” Pélicot told judges, after recounting, sometimes in tears, being rapedbyamalenurseinhospitalwhen he was 9 years old and then being forcedtotakepartinagangrapeatage 14.

Pélicot also spoke of the trauma enduredwhenhisparentstookayoung

girl in the family, and witnessing his father’s inappropriate behavior toward her.

“My father used to do the same thing with the littlegirl,’’he said. “After my father’s death, my brother said that menusedtocometoourhouse.”

At 14, he said, he asked his mother if he could leave the house, but “she didn’tletme.”

“I don’t really want to talk about this, I am just ashamed of my father. In the end,Ididn’tdoanybetter,’’hesaid.

Asked about his feelings toward his wife, Pélicot said she did not deserve whathedid.

“From my youth, I remember only shocks and traumas, forgotten partly thanksto her.She did not deserve this, Iacknowledgeit,”hesaidintears.

At that moment, Gisèle Pélicot, standing across the room, facing him acrossagroupofdozensofdefendants sitting in between them, put her sunglassesbackon.

Later, Dominique Pélicot said, “I was crazy about her. She replaced everything.Iruinedeverything.”

AsecurityagentcaughtPélicotin2020 ﬁlming videos under women’s skirts in a supermarket, according to court documents. Police searched Pélicot’s house and electronic devices, and found thousands of photos and videos of men engaging in sexual acts with Gisèle Pélicot while she appears to lie unconsciousontheirbed.

With the recordings, police were able to track down a majority of the 72 suspectstheywereseeking.

Gisèle Pélicot and her husband of 50 years had three children. When they retired, the couple left the Paris region tomoveintoahouseinMazan,asmall towninProvence.

When police oﬃcers called her in for questioning in late 2020, she initially told them her husband was “a great guy,″ according to legal documents. They then showed her some photos. She left her husband and they are now divorced.

Hefaces20yearsinprisonifconvicted. BesidesPélicot,50othermen,aged26 to74,arestandingtrial.

Bernadette Tessonière, a 69-year-old retireewholivesahalf-hourdrivefrom Avignon,wherethetrialistakingplace, arrived outside the courthouse at 7:15 a.m. to make sure she would secure a seatinthecloselywatchedcase.

“How is it possible that in 50 years of communal life, one can live next to someone who hides his life so well? Thisis scary,”shesaid,whilestanding in a line outside the courthouse. “I don’t have much hope that what he did can be explained, but he is at least goingtogivesomeelements.”

1in3Canadiansdon’t knowthediﬀerence betweenheartattackand cardiacarrest,pollﬁnds

Despite 50 per cent of Canadians having been aﬀected by heart disease and stroke in some capacity according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, a much smaller proportion understand critical information related to the healthissue.

This is according to a new Heart and Stroke poll which also found that one in three Canadians do not understand the diﬀerence between cardiac arrest and a heart attack, nor do they know that men and women exhibit diﬀerent signswhenhavingaheartattack.

“Themosttroubling[researchﬁnding], from my perspective, would be that a third of Canadians think that it’s diﬃcult to recognize the signs of strokeifyou’renotatrainedhealthcare professional,” Lesley James, Heart and Stroke spokesperson and director of health policy and systems, told CTVNews.ca. “The signs of stroke are easy to recognize and everyone needstoknowthat.It’sveryimportant because stroke can happen to anyone atanyage.”

The online poll conducted by Environics Research Group, asked 2,003 Canadian residents aged 18 and olderabouttheirunderstandingofheart conditions. The data was collected betweenMay29andJune9,2023.

KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEENHEARTCONDITIONS

While some might think the terms cardiac arrest and heart attack can be used interchangeably, they are in fact twodiﬀerenthealthconditions.

AccordingtoHeartandStroke,cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. Meanwhile, a heart attack is when the blood ﬂow to the heart is slowed or blocked.

One in three Canadians don’t know that these are two diﬀerent conditions, accordingtothesurvey.

“There hasn’t been enough education and awareness about the diﬀerences between the two. So that’s why we’re hopingtoraiseawarenessandincrease people’s understanding,” James said. “Both are medical emergencies and requireimmediatemedicalattention.”

Astrokeontheotherhand,iscausedby ablockageinbloodﬂowtothebrain.

According to Dr. Robert Fahed, a neurologist at The Ottawa Hospital, heart attacks and strokes come as a result of the same underlying vascular risk factors, which include smoking, diabetes, cholesterol, hypertension, obesity and lack of physical exercise. Those factors cause the majority of strokes and heart attacks in Canada, Fahed told CTVNews.ca in an interview.

SIGNS OF HEART ATTACK ARE DIFFERENTFORWOMEN

Thereisalsoadiﬀerencebetweenhow men and women show signs that they are having a heart attack, a fact one in threeCanadiansareunawareof.

“What we perceive as a heart attack are most likely the ones that happen

in men. Butwomenexperience a heart attack diﬀerently—they may not have that true ‘Hollywood’ heart attack, where someone has chest pain and crushestheirchest,”Jamessaid.  Yourhealthheadlinesallhere

Instead, women may experience shortnessofbreath,pressure,orpainin the lowerchest or abdomen,dizziness, upperbackpressureorextremefatigue.

Meanwhile, the poll revealed that thesesymptomsoftengounrecognized for half of Canadian women, as the symptoms often don’t have the visible severityofmen’ssymptoms.

“Whatneedstohappeninthisregardis really raise awareness about what the signs of heart attack are, across both sexes,”Jamessaid.

Asforwhywomenexperiencediﬀerent symptoms,Fahedhassomeideas.

“We know that women’s physiology is slightly different, because women produce more estrogen, which have different effects on the heart and the vessels,” Fahed said. “So women can have heart attacks at a different age thanmenwithadifferentseverity,they canbemoreorlesssevere.”

Fahed adds that many women have the tendency to underestimate the seriousness of their own symptoms, resulting in the risk of irreversible damage,orevendeath.

“Women are often underrepresented in the stroke and heart attack studies and trials. And because of that, we do not have a clear understanding of all the underlying mechanisms.And there is probably a lot of work to do about this to develop appropriate drugs, medications and care for women who suﬀerfromthesediseases.”

LOW SURVIVAL RATE FOR CARDIACARRESTOUTSIDE OFA HOSPITAL

According to Heart and Stroke, 90 per cent of people who go into cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, do not survive.

One in three Canadians are not aware ofthisfact,researcherssaid.

The poll also found that one in three Canadians think they should immediately drive someone suﬀering from a stroke to the hospital. When in reality, they should call 9-1-1 right away,accordingtoHeartandStroke.

As for cardiac arrest, James said, “Driving someone to the hospital delays time when intervention could be used right there on the spot with an AED[automatedexternaldeﬁbrillator], andwithCPR.”

Instead, if you see someone suddenly collapsingontheﬂoor,Fahedsayscall 9-1-1immediately.

“Without even waiting a single second,” Fahed said. “For heart arrest, heart attack and stroke, the sooner medical attention is called, the sooner thepatientsarecaredforbyappropriate health care workers to better the prognosis.” CTVNews

Health/Lifestyle

Hot ﬂashes and night sweats are among the most infamous menopause maladies. But you might want to pay attentiontoyourteethandgums,too.

“I’mnot sure that people are aware of this,” said Dr.Thomas Sollecito, chief of oral medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

Hormonal changes — mainly a sharp drop in estrogen — can reduce bone density and saliva production and harmyourgums.Allof that can aﬀect yourteeth.

Oralcareexpertssaytherearewaysto counteract these eﬀects and keep your menopausalmouthhealthy.

Menopause,perimenopauseanddental symptoms

Menopause happens when a woman goes 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. But some of the hormone-related dental problems may beginduringperimenopause,whenthe ovaries gradually make less estrogen, said Dr. Maiara Hister-Cockrell, a dentist with the University of Texas HealthSanAntonio.

One of the biggest concerns is less saliva, which Sollecito called “one of themostimportantﬂuidsinourbody.”

When the saliva ﬂow slows, it can cause dry mouth, which brings a greater risk of mouth soreness, oral yeast infections and cavities. Those risksareevenhigherwhenpeopletake medicines for high blood pressure or diabetesthatcanalsocausedrymouth, Hister-Cockrellsaid.

Less saliva also means less of its bacteria-killing enzymes and toothstrengthening minerals, said Dr. Sally Cram, a periodontist in Washington, D.C.

When your mouth is dry, she said, “those bacteria are proliferating and you’remoreprone togettooth decay.” And if decay festers, tooth loss is possible.

Decreasing bone density and receding gumsexacerbatetheseproblems.Ifthe socketthatholdsthetoothislessdense, Sollecito said, it’s more vulnerable to boneloss.Andgumrecessioncanleave sometoothsurfaceswithouttheenamel thatprotectsthemfromcavities.

Womeninthisphaseoflifearealsomore likely to develop periodontal disease, when plaque and bacteria collect under gumsandaroundteeth.

“Gum tissue starts to get red and swollen,” said Cram, a spokesperson for the American Dental Association. “It bleeds and it starts pulling away from the teeth, creating deeper crevices around the teeth that are clearly harder tokeepclean.”

Some people experience “burning mouth syndrome.” Hister-Cockrell said a burning sensation can extend to the tongue,palateandlips.

“As you could well imagine,” Sollecito added,“thiscouldallreallyspiraloutof control.”

Whatcanyoudo?

The first line of defense, experts said, is good oral hygiene and nutrition. Eat a balanced diet low on sweets and high on calcium-rich foods. Brush carefully with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a dayandflossregularly.

andaskthem:AmIdoingagoodjob? AndifI’mnot,whatcouldhelpmedo abetterjob?”

Patients should also ask their dentists whether they should be seen more than twice a year, as well as consider in-office fluoride treatments to strengthen the surface of their teeth and prescription high-fluoride toothpaste.

At home, experts said, treating dry mouthisapriority.Sostayhydrated.

“None of us really probably drink enough water throughout the day,” Cramsaid.

People can also use over-thecounter dry mouth sprays, lozenges or rinses. In severe cases, Sollecito said they can ask their dentist about prescriptionmedicationsthatincrease the amount of salivainthe mouth but comewithsideeﬀects.There arealso prescription medications for burning mouthsyndrome.

“An electric toothbrush can be more helpful than manual toothbrushing,” Cram said. “See your dentist regularly

“Thebottomline,”Cramsaid,“ismost oral conditions and problems during menopause are totally preventable” by paying attention, taking good care of your teeth at home and regularly goingtothedentist.

TheAssociatedPress

Around the World Sports Scene

Infrastructure‘mustimprove’for AfricatowinWorldCup

Standards of football pitches and stadiums in Africa must improve for a side from the continent to win the Fifa World Cup, according to Democratic Republic of Congo coachSebastienDesabre.

His comments come as Ghana became the latest country to be banned from hosting international matches,externalbytheConfederation ofAfricanFootball(Caf).

Desabre, who took DR Congo to the semi-ﬁnals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) this year, says whilst thestandardofplaymaybeimproving, the infrastructure is not there to back thecoaches.

“Unfortunately some pitches, some structures, are not at the level of the objective of the [Caf] president or the objective offederations,” Desabre told NewsdayonBBCWorldService.

“It’swhyit’smorediﬃcultinAfricato getresults.”

Benin, Kenya and Madagascar were among several nations forced to host 2025 Afcon qualiﬁers this month at neutral venues after failing to meet Caf’s requirements for international matches.

Ghana look set to join that contingent next month because of technical infractions at the Baba Yara Stadium, including concerns over the quality of thepitchinKumasi.

Ghana’s ministry of youth and sports has asked Caf to inspect two other stadiums in Accra instead, but if neither of those are are approved then the Black Stars will have to hold next month’s tie against Sudan outside of thecountry.

Morocco reached the semiﬁnals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, becoming the ﬁrstAfrican side toprogresstothelastfour,butDesabre thinksinfrastructuremustbeimproved foranyonetogofurther.

“Thestandardoftheprofessionalgame is improving,” the 48-year-old told the BBC.

“From more than 10 years inAfrica, I saw changes in Caf, in federations, in academies.

“I know, one time surely, an African team will win the World Cup because either way it’s destined for African football.

“But we need to continue to build stadiums and training pitches to help thecoachesandplayers[puton]agood spectacleand[get]goodresults.”

Desabreisamonganumberofnational coaches who have assembled in Ivory Coast for a two-day coaches’ symposiumorganisedbyCaf.

Theobjectiveistoreﬂectonthisyear’s Nations Cup ﬁnals in theWestAfrican country and to look at how future tournamentscanbeimproved.

Desabre says the Caf symposium is a goodopportunitytospeaktocolleagues and other coaches who competed at the 2023 Afcon ﬁnals, especially now that qualifying for the 2025 edition in Moroccohasbegun.

“We have a link and there is a lot of respectbetweenus,”hesaid.

“The work of each [coach] is maybe diﬀerent but it’s important to also take someexperiencefromothercoachesto continue to learn and to improve our knowledge, and also to do feedback aboutthecompetition.

“It’s also important for us to look at improvements or how to prepare for thenextone.”

DR Congo have enjoyed a strong start to qualifying forAfcon 2025, winning both their opening Group H matches againstEthiopiaandGuinea.

“It’s important for conﬁdence to start with two wins, but it’s six games and it’s not the end, because we are not qualiﬁed,”Desabresaid.

“Weneedtokeepourfocusonthenext gameininOctober.”

The Morocco 2025 qualifying campaign will be completed in November,whichmeanstheteamswill have to wait more than a year before theactualtournamentkicksoﬀ.

Theﬁnalswillrunfrom21December nextyearto18January2026.

“I think it is better if the competition is immediately after the qualiﬁcation, but it’s the same during World Cup qualiﬁcation,”Desabresaid.

“Weareprofessional.Weneedtoadapt tothesituation.

“We take game after game and for our team, our fans, our country, it is important to win the next game whether it’s a qualiﬁer, a friendly or a WorldCupqualiﬁer.” BBC

Italy’sWorldCupiconSchillaci diesaged59

Italian icon Salvatore Schillaci, the top scorer at the 1990 World Cup, hasdiedaged59.

Schillaci, better known as ‘Toto’, scored six goals to win the Golden Boot at the 1990 World Cup on home soil.

Italy lost in the semi-ﬁnals, but Schillaci wasalso awardedtheGolden Ballasthebestplayerandgainedhero status.

Schillaci was diagnosed with colon cancerin2022.

Capped 16 times for his country, scoring seven goals, he represented Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan after beginning his club career at Messina.

Juventus, whom Schillaci joined in 1989, said: “We immediately fell in lovewithToto.Hisdesire,hisstory,his beingsowonderfullypassionate,andit showedineverygameheplayed.

“We at Juve were lucky enough to get excited about him before - in that incredible summer of 1990 - the whole of Italy did, captivated by those wonderfully energetic celebrations of his.”

Schillaci scored his ﬁrst goal of the 1990WorldCupasasubstituteagainst Austria, and after another substitute appearance against the United States earned his ﬁrst start against the Czech Republic.

Partnering Roberto Baggio up front, Schillaci scored again as Italy’s campaign built momentum, and his hero status was conﬁrmed with further goals in the subsequent knockout round matches against Uruguay and the Republic of Ireland in the quarterﬁnals.

Despite opening the scoring in the semi-ﬁnal against Argentina, Italy lost out on penalties in Naples - but Schillaci sealed the Golden Boot with his sixth goal of the tournament in the third-placeplay-oﬀagainstEngland.

Hewouldﬁnishrunner-uptoGermany’s World Cup-winning captain Lothar

Matthausforthe1990Ballond’Or.

Schillaci announces himself during 1990WorldCup

Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni said: “A football icon is leaving us, a man who has entered the hearts of Italians and sports fans around the world.

“The striker from the magic nights of Italia ‘90 with our national team. Thanks for the emotions you gave us, for having made us dream, celebrate, embraceandwaveournationalﬂag.”

Serie A president Lorenzo Casini described Schillaci as “a champion who lit up the magical nights of the 1990WorldCupinItaly”.

“His desire to emerge and reach the highest levels of football has been and will continue to be a source of inspiration for the many young people who chase the dream of playing in SerieA.”

Schillaciscoredonlyonemoregoalfor Italy and did not appear for his nation againatamajortournament.

He became the ﬁrst Italian player to playinJapan’sJ-Leaguebeforeretiring in1999.

The president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), Gabriele Gravina, said of Schillaci: “His face was a symbolofsharedjoy[and]willforever remain a common heritage of Italian football.

“Totowasagreatfootballer,atenacious symbolofwillandredemption.Hewas able to thrill the Azzurri fans because his football was full of passion and it was precisely this indomitable spirit thatmadehimappreciatedbyeveryone andwillmakehimimmortal.”

Former Italy team-mate Baggio said: “The magic nights of Italia ‘90 we experienced together will always remainimprintedinmyheart.Brothers ofItalyforever.”

Salvatore Schillaci struggled to maintain his World Cup form and ended his playing career in Japan’s J-League BBC

withJonathan BaahAnnobil

SalvatoreSchillaci

InMemoriamofthe

LateMad.MonicaBaﬀoealiasAdwoaAdomaah

MaameMonica Baﬀoea,k,aAdwoa Adomaadiedon thesept252013 exactlyeleven yearsagoin TorontoatNorth YorkGeneral Hospital. Maamewasa memberoftheSt AndrewCatholic church.

TheLateMaameMonicaBaﬀoe

It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember.

Maameyou'redearlymissedfromyourchildren, grandandgreatgrandchildren,inlaws,familyboth ofkintampoandNkoranza,andmembersofthe StAndrewCatholicchurch.