Introducing the Nom De Plume Umoja Unity Awards in partnership with Afros in tha City, Don’t Stop Rolling and Skoden Magazine which celebrates 21+ Women Across Canada! Join us in honouring the remarkable women who are reshaping the narrative on women's rights worldwide. Our feature initiative shines a spotlight on 21 inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations, each leaving a significant impact in their communities and beyond.
NOM DE PLUME AWARDS - UMOJA/UNITY AWARDS 2024
Adrianne Williams - Visionary Artist Award
Adrianne Williams is a multidisciplinary artist whose captivating work delves into themes of urban culture, individuality, and the exploration of her Caribbean heritage. Through her paintings, installations, and video creations, she intricately weaves together elements of pop culture with profound reflections on cultural clashes.
Williams' artistic journey began with a dedicated pursuit of knowledge, culminating in the completion of her BFA in Drawing at the Alberta University of the Arts in 2007. Since then, her artistry has flourished, captivating audiences in exhibitions across Calgary, Edmonton, Italy, and Spain.
What sets Williams apart is her ability to infuse personal narratives with broader societal dialogues, creating visual narratives that resonate deeply with viewers. Her work serves as a powerful bridge between her Caribbean roots and contemporary urban experiences, inviting viewers to explore and contemplate themes of identity, heritage, and the dynamic nature of cultural evolution.
Website || Facebook || InstagramChelsea Keith - Diversity & Inclusion Advocate Award
Chelsea Keith is a trailblazing figure in the music industry, serving as the global director of SheDJS and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion practices that push boundaries and challenge the status quo. With a passion for creating inclusive spaces and amplifying underrepresented voices, Keith has been instrumental in driving meaningful change within the music community.
Her leadership at SheDJS, a platform dedicated to empowering women and non-binary DJs, reflects her commitment to fostering diversity and equity in a traditionally male-dominated field. Through her advocacy and collaborative efforts, Keith continues to inspire others to embrace inclusivity and pave the way for a more equitable and vibrant music industry.
Website || Facebook || InstagramEstella Achola - Style Icon Award
Estella Achola is a rising star in the world of fashion, known for her impeccable styling skills as the stylist at Achola's Closet. With a keen eye for trends and a flair for creating captivating looks, Achola has garnered a fast-growing social media audience that looks to her for style inspiration and fashion advice. Through her engaging content and creative collaborations, she has established herself as a trusted authority in the fashion industry, attracting a diverse and enthusiastic following eager to stay updated on the latest trends and styling tips. Achola's influence continues to grow as she navigates the fashion landscape with confidence and creativity, making her a standout figure in the world of style and beauty.
Website || Facebook || InstagramFaith Abraham - Bright Future Award
Faith Abraham is a remarkable young talent who has captured hearts and minds with her passion for storytelling. At just 7 years old, Faith has already made her mark as an author, showcasing her creativity and imagination through her written works. Her stories, filled with vibrant characters and engaging plots, have captivated readers of all ages, showcasing a depth of storytelling well beyond her years. Faith's journey as a budding author serves as an inspiration to young aspiring writers everywhere, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one's dreams and sharing one's unique voice with the world.
Website || Facebook || InstagramGladys Afolayan - Innovative Icon Award
Gladys Afolayan is a trailblazing innovator in the hair and beauty industry, renowned for her groundbreaking work through her business CreativeMindz. Her visionary approach to hairstyling has not only earned her accolades but also reshaped the narrative around black hair and entrepreneurship in Alberta. Afolayan's dedication to celebrating and empowering diverse beauty has garnered widespread recognition, with her business receiving prestigious awards for its transformative impact on the industry. Through her creativity, passion, and commitment to excellence, Afolayan continues to inspire positive change and redefine standards of beauty and business in Alberta and beyond.
Website || Facebook || InstagramInemesit Essien Graham - The Game Changer Award
Inemesit is widely recognized as a game changer, breaking barriers and revolutionizing norms in various spheres. As an anti-racism educator, she challenges systemic injustices and fosters inclusivity and equality. In her role as an aspiring author, she uses her platform to amplify marginalized voices and spark meaningful conversations.
Additionally, as a fitness educator and trainer specializing in decolonized fitness, Inemesit promotes body liberation and empowers individuals to embrace their unique strengths and capabilities.
Through her innovative approaches and unwavering advocacy, Inemesit continues to inspire positive change and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Website || Facebook || InstagramInemesit Etokudo - TikTok Trailblazer Award
Inemesit Etokudo is the TikTok Trailblazer Award recipient known for her innovative content and influence on social media. Beyond her success on TikTok, she is also an entrepreneur with a business specializing in custom prints for various industries.
Inemesit's ability to navigate both the digital landscape and the business world showcases her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. Her dedication to creativity and collaboration has earned her recognition and respect in both the social media and business realms.
Website || Facebook || InstagramJameela Ghaan - Marketing Trailblazer Award
Jameela is not your average business strategist—she's a powerhouse with a bachelor's degree in business and a burning passion for helping businesses connect with their dream customers. Her toolkit includes everything from comprehensive content marketing plans to cutting-edge AI automation, email marketing wizardry, strategic link building, savvy co-marketing partnerships, and a knack for dominating social media and on-page SEO.
What sets Jameela apart is her laser-focused approach to understanding target markets and uncovering their pain points, resulting in a track record that speaks volumes—her content consistently lands on the coveted first page of Google, making her a force to be reckoned with in the digital marketing realm.
"Craft valuable content that speaks directly to your target audience because visibility and engagement are key to success." - Jameela Ghaan
Website || Facebook || InstagramJennie Simms - Publisher of the Year Award
Jennie Simms is a visionary leader in the publishing industry, recognized for her outstanding contributions as the Publisher of the Year Award winner for Big Kitty Magazine. Her innovative approach with Big Kitty Media and Big Kitty Crew has created a supportive platform for artists from all walks of life. Through these ventures, Jennie champions diversity and inclusivity, providing a space where artists can thrive and showcase their talents. Her commitment to uplifting and empowering creatives has garnered widespread acclaim, making her a driving force in the artistic community.
Website || Facebook || InstagramJune Bloom Essentials - Business Startup Award
June Bloom Essentials is a company that was established in 2021. They are devoted to creating natural skincare and wellness products that are luxuriously handcrafted and made in small batches suitable for all skin types and ethnicities. The goal is to solve the problems faced by consumers and create the most effective and affordable natural care products available. Attention is paid to every last detail in each product formulation to ensure a quality that exceeds our customers’ expectation.
Website || Facebook || InstagramKate Rhodes Photography - Photography Excellence Award
Kate Rhodes Photography is a British native whose lens captures not just images but stories of empowerment. With a focus on showcasing the strength and beauty of women across various industries, Kate's work transcends mere photography to become a celebration of resilience and diversity.Beyond her artistic endeavors, Kate is a passionate advocate for the health and wellness industry, using her platform to promote holistic well-being and body positivity. Through her lens and advocacy, Kate inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and live authentically, making her a true force for positive change in both the artistic and wellness communities.
Website || Facebook || InstagramKim Noseworthy - Women's Empowerment Award
With a BA in Communications from the University of Calgary as background, Kim has worked in international fashion modelling for 30 years, including 6 years in Milan. Besides modelling, she has worked in magazine fashion editing, styling, and production of runway shows and photoshoots.
While she remains passionate about modelling, she is now focused on transcribing the knowledge she has gained at the SCHOOL OF WALK, helping youths/adults improve their self-image. She has particular experience in tutoring children, teens and persons with disabilities, to present themselves with confidence and put their best foot forward.
Website || Facebook || InstagramLola Adeniran - Visual Vanguard Award
Lola Adeniran is a renowned Calgary portrait and boudoir photographer, known for her ability to capture the essence of her clients' personalities through her lens. As the creative force behind FalanaFoto, Lola crafts images that allow individuals to express themselves authentically while reconnecting with their true selves, one portrait at a time. Her services extend beyond the borders of Canada making her a sought-after photographer for those seeking to capture meaningful moments and celebrate their unique beauty.
Website || Facebook || InstagramMichelle Robinson - Podcaster of the Year Award
Michelle Robinson, also known as Red Thunderwoman, is a multifaceted individual with a rich background in activism and political engagement. As a Sahtu Dene, she brings a unique perspective to her roles as a mother, wife, and advocate for Indigenous rights. Michelle has been deeply involved in various levels of politics, from federal to municipal, and has made history as the first First Nations woman to run for Calgary City Council.Her commitment to social change extends beyond politics, as she actively volunteers for non-profit events and organizations, demonstrating her dedication to community upliftment and empowerment. Michelle's diverse experiences and unwavering activism make her a respected figure in both Indigenous communities and broader political circles.
Website || Facebook || InstagramNecole Hines - Green Leaf Excellence Award
Necole Hines is a dynamic figure in the cannabis industry, known for her expertise as a cannabis chef, educator, and the founder of Faded Living. Her company, Faded Living, is dedicated to normalizing adult cannabis use through innovative approaches like food, conversation, and events.Necole's passion for cannabis education shines through her work, as she seeks to educate and empower individuals to make informed choices about cannabis consumption. Her commitment to destigmatizing cannabis use and promoting responsible practices has earned her recognition as a leader in the evolving cannabis landscape.
Website || Facebook || InstagramNoelly Sam - Social Brilliance Award
Noelly's path has been far from linear. She has explored diverse fields such as sales coaching, fashion blogging, and social media marketing. Her bilingual skills became a valuable asset as she created content for renowned fashion and beauty brands, along with luxury names like Aston Martin and Jaguar, earning recognition and awards for her work. Despite these accomplishments, Noelly has been called to a deeper mission to use her expertise and passion to empower others, driving her towards a new chapter of impact and influence.
Website || Facebook || InstagramOshyn Taylor - Business Leadership Award
Oshyn Taylor is a visionary leader who understands the transformative power of education and cultural identity. With African American roots in Detroit and half-Indigenous heritage from the Ochapowace First Nations in Saskatchewan, Oshyn recognizes the challenges many face in accessing quality education while maintaining a strong connection to their roots.This awareness led her to found Optimal Direction, an education and employment agency dedicated to bridging the gap between education and cultural heritage. Through Optimal Direction, Oshyn strives to provide a platform where individuals can access both education and opportunities that honour and celebrate their unique backgrounds, empowering them to achieve success while staying connected to their roots.
Website || Facebook || InstagramPrudence Iticka - Future Leader Award
Prudence Iticka is one of the driving forces behind the United African Diaspora, a grassroots mutual aid movement in Western Canada. UAD's mission is to expand "networks of care" within Black communities, as described by Prudence Iticka. While UAD aims to support anyone in need, a significant focus of the movement is on serving refugees and refugee claimants.Through the UAD, Prudence Iticka and her team work tirelessly to create a supportive and inclusive environment, providing essential resources and assistance to those who may face challenges in accessing traditional support systems. Their dedication to expanding networks of care and fostering community solidarity makes UAD a vital force for the African diaspora.
Website || Facebook || InstagramSiggy Cortez - Community Champion Award
Siggy Cortez is a dynamic dancer and fitness enthusiast who has made a significant impact through her innovative approach to fitness. As the founder of Twerkettes, Siggy brings a unique blend of dance and fitness, inspiring women and individuals of all backgrounds across Canada. Her energetic teaching style and empowering message resonate with her students, encouraging them to embrace their bodies and unleash their inner strength through movement.
Siggy's passion for dance and fitness extends beyond the studio, as she continues to inspire and uplift others, making her a cherished figure in the fitness community and beyond.
Website || Facebook || InstagramSipiwe Kachidza-Mapfumo - Silver Sage Award
Sipiwe is a dedicated advocate who has spent the past 11 years working tirelessly in HIV and sexual health awareness, with a specific focus on African, Caribbean, and Black communities. Her extensive experience includes working closely with marginalized groups and immigrant populations, addressing crucial issues such as stigma and awareness within these communities.Sipiwe's commitment to education and advocacy led her to serve as co-chair of CHABAC (Canadian HIV/AIDS Black, African Caribbean), a national network dedicated to addressing HIV and AIDS within these communities. Recently retired from SafeLink Alberta, where she served as the coordinator of Drumbeat, the African Communities Program, Sipiwe leaves behind a legacy of impactful work in promoting health and well-being in diverse communities.
Website || Facebook || InstagramTessa Rei-LJ - Accessibility Champion Award
Tessa Rei LJ isn’t your typical Deaf Albertan. Born in Edmonton and raised in Cremona, Alberta, she’s always seen the world through a unique lens. Despite being born profoundly Deaf, Tessa discovered her passion for drawing at the age of 3 and has pursued it wholeheartedly ever since.From working with magazines to graphic design clients and even decorating cookies, Tessa is a woman who advocates for our rights while expressing her creativity and assisting others. Despite facing discrimination, Tessa navigates obstacles with determination, whether it’s appearing in court for her own case or enduring assaults, as part of the 1% of 80% of women in Canada who are more likely to be assaulted due to their challenges. She refuses to give up. Though weary and burdened with pain, she persists, believing in the power of creation to change the world.
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