You can help Nova Vita Break the Silence on Domestic Violence

(Brantford, ON) - November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month and Nova Vita has launched their largest awareness campaign of the year, Break the Silence on Domestic Violence Now in its 4th year, #BreakTheSilenceBrant calls on the community to help raise awareness, raise money, and raise voices to end violence against women. For many women, living in violence is also living in silence. They feel trapped, they experience increased isolation, they do not feel safe in their own home, and they often feel alone and voiceless. When you join the campaign as a participant or donor you help to amplify the message, help others learn the signs of violence in relationships, share information about the essential programs and services that Nova Vita offers to all members of the community, and raise essential funding required to meet the increased demands of women and families impacted by violence.

In solidarity for women who are living in silence, Nova Vita challenged the public to go silent for 24 hours on November 24 to raise awareness and essential funding to support women escaping abuse.

You can still support the campaign and help make a difference in a couple of ways during Woman Abuse Prevention Month:

-Raise Your Voice & Raise Money

Share your commitment to the campaign. Like and share our @NovaVitaBrant posts on social media to have your followers support or join your campaign.

-Break Your Silence on November 25 in honour of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Share your experience, share your resources, and share how much you raised to help end violence in our community. Canada’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence runs from November 25 to December 10th . Help raise awareness and support Nova Vita as we strive for our vision for” a world where individuals, relationships, families, and communities are safe, empowered, and healthy.” For more information or to make arrangements to have your individual or team campaign featured on social media @NovaVitaBrant, please visit our website at novavita.org or contact events@novavita.org.

Art is not confined to a studio: Young artist finds inspiration all around her in beautiful Paris

IN THE STUDIO

With Taren White

In the heart of Paris, where creativity flows like the Grand River, a budding artist is making waves with her vibrant and diverse collection of paintings. Alicen MacNeil, a Grade 11 student at Paris District High, is not your typical high school artist; her passion for art has been ingrained in her since childhood. Alicen's artistic journey began with the gentle guidance of her mother, who fondly recalls her daughter's early years spent doodling and painting for the Paris Fair. As she navigated the bustling fairgrounds with her youthful imagination, little did she know that these early creative endeavours would set the stage for a promising artistic future Now, as a high school student, Alicen draws inspiration from the world around her "Everything," she says, is her muse. Her walks, with the vast Paris sky overhead, become a canvas of inspiration. Armed with her camera, she captures moments that later translate into the vivid strokes of her paintings

Family plays a significant role in Alicen's artistic journey, particularly her Aunt Abbey, a seasoned painter. It was Aunt Abbey who introduced Alicen to the enchanting world of watercolours, teaching her the delicate art of painting flowers. Surrounded by a family of artists, Alicen has been immersed in a culture that values and celebrates the transformative power of art. When asked about her preferred medium, Alicen's eyes light up with enthusiasm. "Everything," she exclaims Her love for experimentation is evident as she explores various mediums.

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