APRIL 2022
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
EMPOWERED WOMEN:
ENGAGE - INSPIRE - EMPOWER - LEAD
BREAKING BARRIERS TO SUCCESS.
A PUBLICATION OF THE STAR WOMEN’S NETWORK INC.
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| www.empowerment-women.com
CONTENTS TEAM
3.
PUBLISHER'S NOTE From Ifeoma Esonwune
4.
WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE: TSWNI recognizes and celebrates a Woman of Substance, Mrs. Ann Divine.
6.
INSPIRATION: Don't Like the Image of yourself? Change your Choices by Ruth Thomas
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STARBLAZERS: STAR Women
12. 15.
20. 22.
Publisher: Contributing Editors:
Graphic designer: Columnists:
Zeina Klyame
Ruth Thomas Social Researcher, Speaker and Mentor
Faith Ayomide Ajayi Health Educator and Best-selling author
Lanre Tunji-Ajayi
HEALTH AND WELLNESS: Breast Cancer by Faith Ayomide
Founder & CEO of SCAGO
Kpedetin Marlene Adjibi
Events & Marketing:
Photography:
Phone: 647-446-8399
Krystal Johnston
MUA
BEAUTY AND FITNESS: A Quick Lesson on Makeup Application… (& Common Misconceptions) by Zeina Klayme
To contribute or subscribe please contact us:
Kayla Geitzler Oge Nwachukwu Eucharia Remy-Kingsley
Beauty Consultant, Writer and
SPOTLIGHT: In this issue, our spotlight shines on Tiffani Young
LIFESTYLE: Down Payment for a Mortgage by Kpedetin Marlene Adjibi
Ifeoma Esonwune
Ruth Thomas Juliet Namugga J_ash Photography
To advertise please contact us: Email: info@starwomensnetwork.com
Email: info@starwomensnetwork.com
WSTAR Magazine is a quarterly publication of The STAR Women’s Network Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher.
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER IFEOMA ESONWUNE
Still in the Women's History Month mood... Nearly Twenty-seven years after the UN Beijing Declaration - The resolution adopted to take the necessary steps to "remove all obstacles to gender equality and the advancement and empowerment of women," our society has continued to witness systemic barriers impeding women's success. Though there have been notable improvements and support in gender equality over the past decades around the globe, seeing more women accessing quality education, stepping up in politics, rising to leadership positions and achieving more economic freedom, there's still lots of work to be done to get us where we want to be, and especially now that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have slowed down the progress made. In celebration of Women's History Month 2022, the UN Women launched a call to action to "Break the Bias" women face across all sectors of society. At The STAR Women's Network Inc., we I wholeheartedly thank our STAR women recognize that this call to action couldn't be timelier and more models - esteemed professionals and critical. Dismantling stereotypes, empowering women and creating devoted friends who graced our cover. opportunities for success through awareness, education and Your unstinted co-operation and capacity building are at the core of our mission and vision. We are painstaking efforts make this cover one to devoted to helping all women break every internal and external cherish for a long time. bias and embrace their innate ability to succeed personally and professionally. Y'all contributed in a big way to the We elevate the ordinary woman and amplify her voice while success of this edition. Thank you for creating a platform for her to Rise and Lead. being good ambassadors. To our able columnists and dedicated contributors, In this edition of our prestigious international magazine, we beam thank you. our torch on three outstanding and incredible women - Ann Divine, You are inspiring nations. Tiffani Young and Aanya Wig. These women have achieved distinctive landmarks in their careers and are helping other women I feel delighted that we could bring you do the same. Let their stories inspire you to Rise and Lead! this edition despite many odds. I fondly hope our effort will be well rewarded by Worthy of mention here is the launch of my Podcast named "Power our esteemed readers' warm and Your Truth," which debuted on February 14, 2022. The Podcast is enthusiastic responses. Please leave us a created for women to keep them energized, inspired and review or feedback on the platform you motivated. Presented by The STAR Women's Network Inc. and hosted by yours download or read this magazine. truly, each episode brings an inspiring story of an ordinary woman You can also email your reaction, braving her way through challenges, biases and obstacles with comments and feedback to Strength, Tenacity, Audacity and Resilience (STAR). info@starwomensnetwork.com. As authentically told by them, their stories are reaching and inspiring thousands of women worldwide. My team and I will continue to do our best to bring fascinating, relevant and At this juncture, I want to take a moment to mention our sincere empowering content to inspire and thanks and acknowledgements to all our sponsors, partners and energize you to action. Together, we are supporters who have continued to believe in what we do and have stronger! Thank you. stood by us solid and unrelenting. My most heartfelt thanks go to Enjoy the colours of spring! our allies - men who understand deeply that women deserve to be celebrated for their remarkable contributions to society, Lots of love, extraordinary triumphs and unmatched intrepidity. A special award goes to you all!
Ifeoma
WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE www.empowerment-women.com |
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In honour of Women's History Month, The STAR Women's Network Inc. (TSWNI) recognizes and celebrates a STAR woman of substance in commemoration of International Women's Day, which takes place on March 8 of every year. We acknowledge that despite gender disparities across all political, social and economic sectors, women have continued to thrive and transcend the odds in business and leadership. Therefore, this issue beams its torch on a phenomenal woman, a fantastic trailblazer and a woman of substance,
Mrs. Ann Divine. TSWNI is elated to celebrate Divine’s extraordinary contributions to her community, as well as her distinctive accomplishments and unpaired intrepidity of character.
Ann
Divine
nn Divine, CEO of Ashanti Leadership and Development Services Inc. Her business A provides extensive services in leadership development, strategic planning, cultural and
organizational change management programs through a diversity and inclusion lens. This includes providing professional advice and guidance to corporate businesses, government institutions, non-profits, individuals and communities. Mrs. Divine's work has led her to collaborate with women across North and South America.
Immigrated to Canada in 2004 with her family, having left a successful career at the senior leadership level in the UK, Mrs. Divine, like most immigrants to a new Country, had to reinvent and reimagine herself by carving out a new professional career for herself in the province of Nova Scotia. She was determined not to take a "survival" job but fortunate to start over again with the government of Nova Scotia. Having lived on three continents and worked within diverse organizations and communities in senior management positions in London, UK, and Canada, Mrs. Divine has gained a solid understanding of corporate and strategic management. Her educational qualifications include a master's degree in Human Resource Management, Sociology (Hon) Degree, Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, Human Rights, Certified Coaching Federation Certificate, Adult Education Certificates, and Leadership Development.
In 2002 - 2003, she was among the first cohorts to graduate from the internationally renowned Common Purpose Leadership Program for upand-coming executives in London, UK. Her work is underpinned by her knowledge and expertise in human rights, people management and entrepreneurship. Her unique style combined with adult education principles has brought her recognition in her fields of leadership development, change management, diversity and inclusion, conflict management, facilitation, business advice and more.
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WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE | www.empowerment-women.com
Her work: Divine is also a visionary and risk-taker. In 2014, she left a very influential management position in government with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission to focus on her own business full-time. Now the Ashanti Leadership and Professional Development Services name is well recognized. She also introduced Unconscious Bias training to her work, pioneering this new concept in Nova Scotia. In 2015, the term was hardly recognized, and now Unconscious Bias has become very popularized in conversations. Being passionate about her work, Divine spends a considerable amount of her time working with individuals, businesses, and corporations, providing services in organizational behaviour and leadership, supporting them to build capacity in critical thinking, employee engagement, building trust and creating a sense of belonging. She is a popular public speaker on social justice, leadership development, entrepreneurship, inclusivity, and her clients appreciate her innovative and creative style. In addition, she brings a collaborative approach to her work and seeks to work together and partner with associates in her field to develop the capacity of her business and help to achieve her economic and sustainable goals. Divine is valued for the knowledge and expertise she brings to the table.
Her awards:
Her philosophy:
Divine has been recognized multiple times as a trailblazer and empowerment advocate by government officials, organizations' executives, and community leaders, including the Honorable Minister for Women and Gender Equality, Honorable Diana Whalen, Deputy Premier and Attorney General of Nova Scotia, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and many more. In addition, she has been featured in many publications, including My East Coast Magazine and Atlantic Business Magazine. She has served on the board of organizations, including the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, United Way and other boards in her community. She is also the President of the Rotary Club Halifax North West. Since joining the Club in 2016, she has been the second female President and the first woman of colour to hold the position in the Club's history.
Divine believes that good stewardship, moral commitment, and accountability to stakeholders and the communities are the hallmarks of ethical standards when working with community organizations. As well as giving back to her community, she continues working to contribute to economic growth, good citizenship, and economic stability. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, her husband David, three adult children and eight grandchildren, who bring her immense joy and are her greatest teachers.
INSPIRATION www.empowerment-women.com |
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DON'T LIKE THE IMAGE OF YOURSELF? CHANGE YOUR CHOICES
Ruth Thomas
Dictionary.com defines choice as the right, power, or opportunity to choose. Research estimates that adults make about 31 thoughts per minute and about 35,000 remotely conscious choices daily (Sahakian & Labuzetta, 2013). Pause to think about that! We have a multitude of choices in life. These choices range from simple ones like what to eat, what to wear, who to add to Facebook friend list, to complex ones like whether to change career, relocate, e.t.c. As our level of responsibilities increases, so does the variety of choices we are faced with making. Choices dictate our lives and sometimes create ripple effects and impacts on people around us from interpersonal to societal levels.
Life choices have some characteristics, which are as follows: We have no control over some choices: For example, we have limited to no control over choices made in the circumstances surrounding adverse weather conditions, an act of God, government regulations, e.t.c. We have control over some choices: We can choose and control our own actions. We pick our choice of what to think and what to say etc., We always have a choice: As humans in this internet age, we have generally been accorded the status of free-willed entities. Although some believe free will is an illusion, we are surrounded by choices in life. Indecision is a choice: Indecision is a decision within itself. Life can be too dynamic for what feels like the safety of indecision. Choices have consequences: Each choice has its effects which come with advantages or disadvantages.
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INSPIRATION | www.empowerment-women.com
DON'T LIKE THE IMAGE OF YOURSELF? CHANGE YOUR CHOICES
Ruth Thomas
Hayley Williams' quote resonates with me a lot,
"the choices we make aren't always perfect, but it's OK... It's part of the journey." Another research has shown that an average adult will make 773,618 decisions over a lifetime and will regret 143 262 of them. By this estimate, about 630 356 of these decisions may go as planned. However, how do we handle the 143,262 that may not be right? Suffice to say that, with any decision, it's possible to get an undesirable result. Though, if we take the learnings, skills, resources, and healthy relationships from that experience, we can accelerate our quest to get closer to our desired result. First, we need to make necessary choices and decisions. Making a choice is setting an intentional life direction reflective of our values, beliefs, and perceptions. Then, we must spend time building our choice senses and systems as the quality of our choices would impact the result. As individuals, we can change the course of our lives by reflecting on what we really want in life, that way, we are deciding on what we want out of life, which simply means being intentional about making our choices—our right, opportunity, and power to choose and that, indeed, lead to some of the most remarkable possible outcomes. In the end, we are our choices, and if we don't like that image of ourselves, we can simply change our choices!
Wishing you a bright, warm, and beautiful Spring!
BILLBORD www.empowerment-women.com |
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STARblazer of the Quarter
Aanya Wig
Coming to terms with the dismal reality of living in a "man's world" and wanting to bring about an active change to the very same was the wake-up call for Aanya Wig. Wig is a 22-year-old Gender Equality Advocate, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Girl Up Rise, TEDx Speaker, SUSI Scholar, Council Member for Women's Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI) Anti Sexual Harassment Council and Founding Project Head, Aghaaz - a student-led social entrepreneurship project to empower women by providing them vocational skills and economic independence following the UN sustainable development goals (SDG). Having lost her father early on in life, Wig was brought up by her mother and sister. Both Wig's mom and sister played a crucial role in demonstrating strength, influence and independence for her. Wig's passion for empowering women is grounded in a profoundly personal impulse to strive to do so. "Over the years, I have realized the importance of extending my privilege by empowering the women around me and thus, empowering myself in the process."
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| www.empowerment-women.com
STARblazer of the Quarter
Aanya Wig
At 22, Wig has worked extensively in the governmental and nongovernmental space ranging from local to international organizations for pro-empowerment agendas. Her hope for bringing about gender equality sparked the founding of Girl Up Rise - an UN-recognised project to create gendered spaces and Aghaaz - a student-led social entrepreneurship project to empower women by providing them with skills and tools. In addition, she has been associated with other organizations like Pratisandhi, CRY, UNHCR, the NJT and the Delhi Anti-Sexual Harassment Council.
BILLBOARD
BILLBORD www.empowerment-women.com |
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STARblazer of the Quarter
Aanya Wig Growing up, Wig realized that she might not be able to change the entire world, but what she could do, however insignificant, is do her best to change the lives around her. She sees herself as a changemaker who would go above and beyond what is required of her and someone who works for the upliftment of those who do not share the same privilege as her. Interest in human rights and gender empowerment has been the driving force for her work. "Girl Up Rise is very close to my heart, as it stands for everything I believe in. A club that started with 4 people and now has more than 85 volunteers, a club that began with the dream of making the spaces around us safer, has now reached more than 2,000 people. We have impacted and driven change across different communities, from collaboration with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees to helping Rohingyan and Afghani women during the pandemic to publishing a legal literacy booklet. We have also focussed on menstrual hygiene, from conducting workshops on consent and communication to running a pan-India campaign to tackle Period Poverty in India." Wig has always been vocal about her views, and she believes you must speak to make sure people around you or after you get the motivation to speak up too. Her passion for writing led her to find a parttime role with The Quint while still pursuing her studies in college. While working at The Quint, Wig published several articles and covered the elections in 2019. She recounts that her college provided her with a platform to grow and mould into a more empathetic and sensitive woman.
During her college years, she co-founded Aghaaz, a student-led social entrepreneurship project to empower women and tackle climate change. Aghaaz started with three women but has now grown to 30. These women have been imparted with vocational skills, like sewing and stitching. They work with waste cloth materials that they convert into bags, pouches, slings, etc. They also make handmade paper by recycling old and discarded newspapers! Wig emphasized that the main aim for Aghaaz is to be inclusive and sustainable in its approach. During the pandemic, Aghaaz continued its promise to empower women and provide them with a source of income. As a result, the women were taught how to make cloth masks, and all proceeds went to them and their families.
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BILLBOARD
| www.empowerment-women.com
STARblazer of the Quarter
Aanya Wig
Wig loves to create a platform that allows for open conversations regarding issues seen as taboo in her community to move towards a more progressive mindset. Her passion and eagerness to always learn more and her experience and familiarity with different sectors make her believe she can drive change. Wig's work has been covered by various media outlets in India and beyond.
"If there is one thing that I've learned while working in the social sector, no struggle is small, and no change is small. If you are passionate about something and want to make a change, there is nothing in this world that can stop you. So before anything, dare to dream, have the courage to believe and be kind to yourself. Together we can make this world a better place. Together we are unstoppable!
SPOTLIGHT www.empowerment-women.com |
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IN THIS ISSUE, OUR SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON AN INCREDIBLE WOMAN, A GOAL GETTER
T I F F A N I
Y O U N G
Tiffani Young is the Founder and CEO of Natural Butter Bar, a mom of two and an advocate for diversity and inclusion. Her company currently provides close to 40 all-natural Butters, Oils, Essential Oils and Gel that can either be applied directly or mixed to suit individual needs giving skin and hair precisely what it has been craving. Young is a nature lover and conscious about healthy living. She works directly with Dalhousie University to launch an all-natural shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in conditioner with natural preservatives to offer her customers the best quality and healthy products.
Braille labels are available upon request for all Natural Butter Bar products.
Tiffani Young
Although Young didn't always want to be a business owner, her personal experiences led her to start Natural Butter Bar. Born and raised in Nova Scotia, a young black woman from a large blended family. The family moved around a lot and typically lived in predominately white communities. This impacted the way Young saw herself and how she thought she was supposed to look. But, like many young people, she simply wanted to fit in and one way she felt she could do this was to chemically relax her hair. Unbeknownst to her, this was the beginning of her journey to Natural Butter Bar.
It wasn't until her university days that Young found a sense of belonging and acceptance of who she was and how she looked. This helped her to see herself in a different light. And thus, began her natural hair journey. "This was a big step in letting go of who I thought I should be and instead embracing who I was created to be."
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SPOTLIGHT
| www.empowerment-women.com
T I F F A N I
Caring for her new natural hair came with its own challenges, and living in the Maritimes made it challenging to access readymade products for black textured hair. It was also challenging to source affordable, diverse ingredients to make her own products. But, on a more positive note, this journey helped Young find her selfconfidence.
Y O U N G
Grapeseed Oil is very lightweight & is easily absorbed, making it the perfect product for both hair & skin. Find this and many other Oils, Butters & Gel at naturalbutterbar.com
"Fall more in love with the skin you're in and the kink in your hair." is a phrase that characterizes the Natural Butter Bar brand. "I want to celebrate the different textures, curl patterns and skin tones that make up our beautiful communities. I want to spotlight those who are not typically showcased because representation matters. We have something for everyone with our wide range of products because we all deserve access to affordable, quality products". Tiffani Young
100% natural (free of chemicals & toxins) makes them safe for people of all ages, even those with the most delicate skin and tiniest toes.
SPOTLIGHT www.empowerment-women.com |
T I F F A N I
Since launching Natural Butter Bar in December 2020, the company has sold over 4,000 products across Canada and the United States. Young was nominated for the "New Business of the Year award" by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and featured in the media via TV and print. While her first year of business has kept her busy, Young is always looking for ways to ensure her products and services are diverse and accessible. She decided to improve the accessibility of the products by offering Braille labels upon request and improving the website to accommodate the visually impaired.
A graduate of Saint Mary's University with Honours in Psychology and Human Resource Management, Young has a heart for the community. Before starting Natural Butter Bar, she worked with the Boys and Girls Club as a Youth Outreach Worker and an After-School Coordinator. She has also launched a program in partnership with the Tribe Network called "Be-YOU-tiful," which aims to build self-esteem and confidence and raise the voices of women and youth, especially within the black community.
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Y O U N G
Our Aloe Vera is used to detangle, deep condition or define & moisturize curls.
Essential Oils A great way to bring the spa effect home.
When Young is not working, she loves being a wife and a mom to her two beautiful children, Malachi and Rayah.
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BEAUTY
| www.empowerment-women.com
A Quick Lesson on Makeup Application… (& Common Misconceptions)
by: Zeina Klayme
Nowadays, we've become accustomed to having our makeup done on every occasion. Whether it be birthdays, anniversaries, weddings (even if it's not our own) — to even a date night. And who can blame us? Don't we deserve to feel fabulous, just like our favourite celebrities? Don't get me wrong, being pampered is not only needed — it is essential after a hard weeks' work. I don't think a single day goes by (other than Sunday, of course) where I don't have at least one cosmetic product applied. Knowing the products that work seamlessly for my skin type, facial structure and skin tone has been a trial and error process, but I believe there are a lot of individuals out there that don't know how to accurately research what key products they need to use and what they need to dispose of; what could be considered too much and what could be regarded as 'not enough.' So that's where I come in.
Not everyone is a guru with makeup, so it's best to start with the basics. Luckily, most brands today will specify which skin type their product is targeted for on the packaging. If you're not an expert in the field, I would also recommend asking the drugstore or department store specialist what their star products are for each skin type. What's new and hot, and what's a classic staple.
For me, the criteria for must-have, everyday skincare would be: -Moisturizer -Sunscreen -Retinol
…and on top of this, make sure you're drinking lots of water and keeping your body hydrated. We tend to focus on the face and décolleté, but we cannot forget the body itself.
BEAUTY www.empowerment-women.com |
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A Quick Lesson on Makeup Application… (& Common Misconceptions)
by: Zeina Klayme
In terms of makeup, if you're a beginner — a little can go a long way. First, make sure you have a mascara that caters to your lash type. If you have straight, outward lashes, make sure you have a thicker, curved brush to give your lashes shape and fullness. If you have long eyelashes, a slightly thinner brush that details definition will do. This will assist in separating the lashes. Also, longer, fuller lashes are more prone to clumping.
Check my Instagram
@theereelqueenzee where I list the best mascaras right now — in my opinion. Other than mascara, make sure you have a go-to eyebrow product — a gel, powder or pencil — and an everyday lipstick (or lip-gloss) shade that compliments your complexion. Nude tones are typically a winner across the board.
My pro-tip for general makeup application would be: Never create a bold lip and a bold eye at once, unless the occasion cries out for it… and those occasions are rare. That is to say, never do deep or unique colours on both the eye and lip. You always want a singular focus on your face, whether your lips with a defined liner or your eyes with classic, bold lashes… or thick, winged eyeliner.
Balance is vital when doing makeup, and you don't want to overwhelm the audience. If you have softer features, lighter shades and applying makeup with a lighter hand is typically best. Don't deepen the crease of the eye too much, and don't over-line the lips too heavily. Glosses are your best friend to plump and give the illusion of fullness. If you have more prominent features, as I do, accurate definition is important. For example, I make sure to have an emboldened crease on my eye and line my lips as they are.
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BEAUTY
| www.empowerment-women.com
A Quick Lesson on Makeup Application… (& Common Misconceptions)
by: Zeina Klayme
Essentially, you want the makeup you apply to enhance what you already have. The idea is not to create an entirely different structure or become unrecognizable. Makeup isn't meant to hide; some have gotten to concealing every detail (and what they see as imperfection) from the naked eye. They don't realize that the imperfections, the texture of the skin, the distinctive characteristics, the differences… are what make us the most beautiful. On the flip side, I've heard the saying, 'You're beautiful. You don't need makeup.' Though, I believe makeup to be a luxury and an experience. When I apply makeup… I feel powerful. It truly gives me the motivation to conquer my day. I've said this for years; there have been times where I can go through writers-block or have an iffy day… and suddenly I pop on a bit of lipstick and *poof* — I feel like an entirely new me. I feel strong. I feel fearless. And if I'm wearing red lipstick, Hunny — watch out! She is feeling FIERCE! Something fundamentally instilled within the concept of makeup makes us feel supernatural… an alter-ego, if you will. Sure, we can wipe it off at the end of the day and go back to being 'ourselves,' but for that moment, with a full face of our favourite products — We are unstoppable. It's all about the image you want to present to the world. Without us realizing it, makeup can tell those around us a lot about our history, our story, our personality, and our style. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is: What does your makeup style say about you?
So, I guess what I'm trying to say is: What does your makeup style say about you?
HEALTH & WELLNESS www.empowerment-women.com |
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BREAST CANCER BY FAITH AYOMIDE
Disclaimer: Note that information shared below is strictly for education purposes, it is not in any way intended to serve as or replace medical diagnosis. If you feel sick or uncertain about how you feel, please consult your doctor/physician.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Research has shown that 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 13%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. But what many people don't know is that men can also get breast cancer (although this is quite rare). Breast cancer is most common in women over 50 years, but it can happen at any age. The cause of breast cancer is not known, but it starts when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally. It forms in the breast tissue, and it occurs when the breast cells mutate (change) and grow out of control, creating a mass of tissue (tumour). These abnormal cells grow faster than normal breast cells, it accumulates and forms a breast lump, the most prevalent symptom of breast cancer. If these abnormal cells in the breast lump are not detected early enough, they can spread to other parts of the body. This is known as METASTASIS. METASTASIS is when breast cancer invades and grows into the tissue surrounding the breast and travels to other parts of the body to form new tumors. Most breast lumps in young women are not cancerous. Instead, they are benign and can be removed without any future issues to worry about. However, Breast cancer is not a transmissible or infectious disease.
Some common symptoms include: -Changes to the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or redness or pitting. -Peeling/ rash or crusting of the skin around the nipple (the areola). -Changes in the size or shape of the breast. -Nipple discharge, which may be bloodstained. -Swellings in one or both armpits. -A nipple change, for example, has become pulled in (inverted). -A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit.
Breast pain is not commonly a symptom of Breast cancer, but look out for pain in your breast or armpit that is there all or almost always. Some women do not notice any sign of breast cancer at all. Hence, the need for a routine mammogram.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
| www.empowerment-women.com
BREAST CANCER BY FAITH AYOMIDE
Disclaimer: Note that information shared below is strictly for education purposes, it is not in any way intended to serve as or replace medical diagnosis. If you feel sick or uncertain about how you feel, please consult your doctor/physician.
Some risk factors associated with having breast cancer -Women above 50 years -Women who are non-Hispanic White and nonHispanic Black -Women that have had breast cancer in the past -Families that have breast cancer survivors/breast cancer deaths. -Tall/overweight women
The single most potent weapon we have in our fight against Breast cancer is Breast selfexamination. Therefore, every woman should learn how to examine her breasts. How to prevent breast cancer from getting to an advanced stage Go for routine mammograms – According to the American Cancer Society, it is recommended that a baseline mammogram should be done at age 35, and a screening mammogram every year after age 40. Examine your breast every month after age 20. Go for clinical breast examination performed by a doctor at least once every three years after age 20 and every year after age 40. How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination Lie down and put your left arm under your head. Use your right hand to examine your left breast. With your 3 middle fingers flat, move gently in small circular motions over the entire breast, checking for any lump, hard knot, or thickening. Use different pressure levels, light, medium, and firm, over each area of your breast. Check the whole breast, from your collarbone above your breast to the ribs below your breast. Switch arms and repeat on the other breast. Look at your breasts while standing in front of a mirror with your hands on your hips. Look for lumps, differences in size and shape, and swelling or dimpling of the skin. Raise one arm, then the other, to check under your arms for lumps.
-Women who drink alcohol -Some genes can make a woman more likely to have cancer. So if she inherits them from her parents, her risk is increased. -Unhealthy lifestyle such as; smoking, alcohol intake, etc. -Obesity -Radiation exposure – prior radiation therapy to the head, neck or chest. -People who use hormone replacement therapy Squeeze the nipple of each breast gently between your thumb and index finger. Report to a professional healthcare provider (doctor) if you notice any discharge or fluid from your nipples and lumps or changes in your breasts. A doctor will evaluate an individual's risk level for breast cancer. Then, conduct a physical examination and perform some tests on the individual, which may likely include a mammographic screening or tissue biopsy. This is done to make a correct diagnosis. Mammographic screening – A mammogram is commonly used in breast cancer prevention. A special X-ray, images that can detect changes or abnormal growths in the breast. Tissue biopsy – When anything suspicious on the imaging test is seen, a biopsy (removal of some cells, tissue, fluid or growths for examination) of the breast tissue is taken, and the sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis. If breast cancer is detected, several treatment options are available, depending on how early or advanced the cancer is.
HEALTH & WELLNESS www.empowerment-women.com |
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BREAST CANCER BY FAITH AYOMIDE
Disclaimer: Note that information shared below is strictly for education purposes, it is not in any way intended to serve as or replace medical diagnosis. If you feel sick or uncertain about
The treatment plan usually includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
how you feel, please consult your doctor/physician.
Treatment for Breast Cancer Breast cancer surgery involves removing the cancerous portion of the breast and an area of normal tissue surrounding the tumor. There are different types of surgery depending on the situation:
Lumpectomy – It is also called partial mastectomy. This removes the tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue around it. Also, some of the lymph nodes in the breast or under the arm are removed for evaluation. Women with lumpectomy often have radiation therapy in the week following the procedure.
Mastectomy – The removal of the entire breast is another option. In some cases, doctors can perform a nipple-sparing mastectomy to preserve the nipple and areola (the dark skin around the nipple). It is observed that following a mastectomy, many women choose to undergo either immediate or delayed breast reconstruction.
Chemotherapy – It may be recommended before a lumpectomy to shrink the tumor. Sometimes, it is given after surgery to kill any remaining cells and reduce the risk of reoccurrence. If breast cancer has spread beyond breasts to other body parts, the doctor may recommend chemotherapy as a primary treatment.
Stages of Breast Cancer Stage 0 - The disease is non-invasive; it hasn't broken out of the breast ducts. Stage 1 - The cancer cells have spread to the nearby breast tissue. Stage 2 – The tumor is either smaller than 2 centimetres across and has spread to underarm lymph nodes or larger than 5 centimetres across but has not spread to underarm lymph nodes. Stage 3 – Cancer has spread beyond the point of origin, it may have invaded nearby tissue and lymph nodes, but it hasn't spread to distant organs. It is also called ADVANCED BREAST CANCER. Stage 4 – Cancer has spread to areas away from the breast, such as the lungs, brain, and liver. It is also referred to as the METASTATIC BREAST CANCER.
Radiation therapy is given after a lumpectomy or mastectomy to kill the remaining cancer cells. It can be used to treat individual metastatic tumors that are causing pain or other problems. If detected early, there is a good chance of recovery from Breast cancer.
Pineapple Express Media (PEMEDIA) is an enterprise reimagining traditional and new media by archiving & celebrating underground hip hop culture in 'Atlantic Canada'.
PEMEDIA produces and curates digital content that represents Black and Indigenous artists; their work, experiences, artistic processes & stories. As well as highlight the history of hip hop culture, & it's influence on the movement nationally and internationally. We do this work for the creatives that don’t fit in commercial guidelines and criteria, for the culture of hip hop, that is spoken for and appropriated time and time again. We do this for the next generation of artists & creatives and we aim to pave a little bit more way for their journeys.
“Our Culture, Through Our Eyes”. https://www.pineappleexpressmedia.com/
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DOWN PAYMENT FOR A MORTGAGE By Kpedetin Marlene Adjibi Bilingual Mortgage Agent, Ottawa, Ontario.
Let's talk Down payment. When buying your first home, you will have to decide on a down payment. Now, let's talk about a down payment and what this means for your mortgage. A down payment is an amount you can immediately contribute towards the cost of your home purchase. However, since most people do not have enough savings to purchase a home outright, the gap between your down payment and the purchase price of your home is a mortgage loan. The minimum down payment to buy a home in Canada is 5% of the purchase price. If you have under 20% down payment, you will need Mortgage Default Insurance. If you have over 20% down payment, you qualify for a conventional mortgage that does not require Mortgage Default Insurance.
Mortgage Default Insurers Mortgage Default Insurance protects the mortgage lender if you cannot make your mortgage payments. Your mortgage costs will be slightly higher if you need to get Mortgage Default Insurance because the premiums you pay for your Mortgage Default Insurance are rolled into your mortgage payments. Mortgage Default Insurance is only available for high-ratio mortgages (downpayment < 20%) if the home's purchase price is less than $1 million.
https://www.mortgageweb.ca/sunlitemortgage
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DOWN PAYMENT FOR A MORTGAGE By Kpedetin Marlene Adjibi Bilingual Mortgage Agent, Ottawa, Ontario.
There are three mortgage
Examples of equity sources that count towards your down payment:
default insurers in Canada:
Sale of another property:
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) -Sagen Canada Guaranty.
Down Payment Rules: 5% applicable to $500.000 or less 5% to 10% applicable to $500.000 to $999.999 (5% for the 1st $500.000 + 10% for the rest)
If your equity comes from the sale of another property, you must obtain the verification of this equity. In addition, the lender will require a formal statement of the outstanding balance for any existing financing on the property.
Savings: Funds from your savings account can be used towards your down payment. However, most lenders will require three months (90days) of bank statements showing the accumulation of funds.
20% applicable to $1.000.000 or more.
The equity you can use toward a down payment. Lenders allow home buyers to cover the requisite down payment by borrowing the funds from an alternate credit source such as a personal line of credit or credit card. However, if you do not fit the stringent credit criteria for these programs, the 5% down payment must come from your resources and cannot be borrowed.
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP): An RRSP is a personal savings plan that allows you to save for the future on a taxsheltered basis. You will need to provide a recent statement from your financial institution that identifies you as the account holder and the current value of the account.
Gifted down payment: The lender will require a gift letter stating that the funds are a gift and are not repayable and a deposit slip showing the gifted funds deposited into the borrower's account before closing. A gift must come from a family member: parent, child, siblings, legal guardian, legal child, or spouse.
https://www.mortgageweb.ca/sunlitemortgage
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DOWN PAYMENT FOR A MORTGAGE By Kpedetin Marlene Adjibi Bilingual Mortgage Agent, Ottawa, Ontario.
GIC, Mutual Fund or Term Deposit GIC: A Guaranteed Investment Certificate is a secure investment that guarantees 100% of the original amount you invested. Your investment earns interest at either a fixed or a variable rate or based on a pre-determined formula.
A good start in buying a house is to speak with a professional. A mortgage broker will guide you through the financing process, do the calculations, shop for you and find the best interest rate and terms.
Mutual fund: A mutual fund is a portfolio of bonds, stocks, or other investable assets like money market products selected and managed by a professional on behalf of many investors.
Term Deposit: A term deposit is a cash investment held at a financial institution for an agreed interest rate over a fixed term.
https://www.mortgageweb.ca/sunlitemortgage
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The Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO) started as Seed of Life Philanthropic Organization (SOLPO) in memory of a brave young man—Sunday Afolabi—on June 14th, 2005. SCAGO is a leading charitable patient organization providing evidence-based support to families with children, adolescents, and adults, with sickle cell disease across the four regions of the province. It supports clinical research and engages in psycho-social research, health promotion, patients and care providers’ education, community awareness, and the development of best practices guidelines.
Lanre Tunji-Ajayi
Since its establishment, SCAGO has invested 100% of its resources in improving the quality of life of individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. It engages in evidentiary advocacy on their behalf with the government, schools, and the healthcare system.
We rely on the generous support of our volunteers, donors, and partners in our shared mission to improve the lives of Ontarians living with sickle cell disease—and ultimately to find a universal cure for this devastating disease. https://sicklecellanemia.ca/ Contact Info: Phone: 416-745-4267 Email: communication@sicklecellanemia.ca Mailing – Office Address: 235-415 Oakdale Rd. North York, ON M3N 1W7
