Photo:
Viviane Sinan, recipient of the Community Impact Award, with members of the Association of the Ivorian Community of the Toronto Region.

On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the African Canadian Social Development Council (ACSDC) hosted this year’s Empower Her event, which had the theme Pathways to Economic and Financial Independence. The event brought together community leaders, professionals, and change-makers to inspire and equip Black women with the tools to help them thrive financially. The day began with a warm welcome address followed by an opening remark, setting the tone for a day of empowerment, learning, and connection.

Premier Doug Ford’s message of support, delivered on his behalf, acknowledged the Council’s steadfast efforts in confronting anti-Black racism and enhancing the lives of African immigrants.

One of the highlights was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Jamila Aman, CEO and president of Capacity Wise Consulting Corp., where she assists NGOs and enterprises with capacity building. Dr. Aman spoke on “Leveraging and the Power of Investing Other People’s Money.” She emphasized the importance of leveraging money, time, skills, and energy.

Dr. Aman encouraged attendees to maintain a strong credit score, support Black-owned businesses, and stay organized with planners for daily, weekly, and long-term goals. Dr. Aman reminded the audience that failure can be a stepping stone and urged women to stand firm in life’s challenges.

Following the keynote address, a panel discussion tackled “Challenges and Solutions in Achieving Financial Independence for Women.” The panel featured Mrs. Pasima Sule, founder and Executive Director of the Black Women Business Network; Faith Bayapo, Regional Manager for Black Community Business Development at TD Bank Group; and Fatma Nadhir, founder of Biashara African Business Club.

Photo:
From left: Faith Bayapo, speaker and Regional Manager for Black Community Business Development at TD Bank Group | Dr. Jamila Aman, keynote speaker | Pasima Sule, speaker and Executive Director of the Black Women Business Network | Fatma Nadhir, speaker and founder of Biashara African Business Club | Kabu Asante, President of ACSDC.

The panellists shared practical insights and personal experiences, emphasizing that financial independence begins with economic literacy. They said Black women should not shy away from applying for loans if they have access to capital is often the bridge to growing a sustainable business.

During the Question-and-Answer session, participants engaged with the panellists, sharing stories and seeking advice, creating a vibrant exchange of knowledge and support. The afternoon featured a lunch and networking break followed by a self-care exercise encouraging women to affirm their worth, goals, and power to promote wellness and self-love.

The event concluded with a recognition ceremony celebrating community changemakers. The Community Impact Award recognized Viviane Sinan, a community leader, personal development coach, and founder of Connecter au Succes to empower Francophone Afro-descendant communities in Canada, and Amina Noor, a seasoned social worker with experience in the non-profit sector. The Justice and Equity Champion Award went to Eyitayo Dada, a lawyer, marriage coach and entrepreneur.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Kabu Asante, President of the African Canadian Social Development Council, thanked all participants, speakers, and supporters for making the event successful. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to advancing the economic empowerment of Black women and the community at large.

EmpowerHer 2025 reminded every woman in attendance that financial freedom is within reach and that she is not alone on the journey.

Read Newsletter Vol 5 – Iss 1 PDF

I will begin by indicating that the African Canadian Social Development Council is an inclusive organization that welcomes and respects everyone.

On April 7th, 2023, I received a hateful e-mail which was also copied to about one hundred and fifty (150) friends of ACSDC. In fact, we, the leader­ ship of ACSDC, found the whole thing despicable and had nothing to do with it.

I have decided to write on this particular subject, even after my leaders have condemned it, due to a response made by one person, the Executive Director (ED) of one of our leading agencies here in Ontario. This person quickly pointed accusing fingers at the African Canadian Social Development Council (ACSDC) as the perpetrator of this hateful message and further announced the intention to report ACSDC to funders.

ACSDC was registered in 2002 with a current membership of eighty-seven(87) organizations.

Our Programs and Team:

• A) Research
• B) Advocacy
• C) Education
• D) Relief Aid Services
• E) Community Development
• President – Nene Kabu Asante
• Lead Editor – Solomon Aremu
• Contributing Editor – Wofa Yaw Nyarko / Creativity and Design – Crystals Arts (Rose Mensah)
• Contributors – Jamila Aman, Vivian Yorrick & James Nyarko