Kind Minds Family Wellness is Four Years Strong!

🎉 Celebrating 4 incredible years of making a difference! 🎉

Here is a message from our Founder and Executive Director, Ajirioghene Evi.

"I am thrilled to celebrate Kind Minds Family Wellness's fourth anniversary! As the inaugural Executive Director, it has been an honor to witness the incredible work we have accomplished as an organization. Over the years, we have touched countless lives, providing short—and long-term support to individuals and families. Our program evaluations and outreach efforts have strengthened communities and continue to address the disproportionate challenges they face through advocacy and system navigation."

To read more, please look through the slides on our post.

#Anniversary
#4years
#nonprofit
#gratitude

Celebrating Father's Day

CELEBRATING FATHER’S DAY 

Fatherhood is a calling to leadership within the smallest unit of society, ensuring that our children can contribute positively to the growth and development of our communities. As John C. Maxwell aptly states, "Leadership is influence," and this is precisely what every father needs to thrive in their role. 

Guiding young minds to believe in the family's vision and inspiring them to act is pivotal. Achieving these great feats requires exceptional care for children, nurturing a strong culture, effective communication, exemplary parenting styles, and collaborations within the nuclear family, extended family, and society at large. 

Though Father’s Day may not receive as much fanfare, we choose to celebrate every father and father figure, including stepfathers, fathers-in-law, guardians, and family friends who have significantly contributed to guiding children towards creating bright futures for themselves and society. Despite facing societal pressures, these men remain resilient, consistently exceeding their daily responsibilities. 

Love is a vital component of performing optimally, and those leaders who embody this trait succeed not only in their families but also in their businesses and countries, gaining worldwide recognition. We encourage you to celebrate any father figure in your life as we honor all the fathers in our community. 

Happy Father’s Day! 

Olusegun Isioye 

Manager of Client Services &Program Coordination 

BDS, EMBA 

KIND MINDS FAMILY WELLNESS 4TH ANNIVERSARY FUNDRAISER

Celebrating four years of dedicated service to the racialized community means the world to us, but it means even more to the individuals whose lives we've touched. This year, we have supported and engaged with more individuals than ever before, surpassing last year's numbers. Our growth is evident, and our mission is to continue expanding our workforce and enhancing our services to transform the lives of those in the Waterloo Region. 

Our comprehensive services include: 

∙Culturally Grounded Counseling 

∙Culturally Informed Educational Programs & Groups 

∙Advocacy 

∙Training & Education 

∙Research & Consultancy 

∙Community Support & Engagement 

∙Systems Navigation 

∙Career Services & Employment Support 

These services encompass numerous projects and programs. While some are funded, many rely on the 

unwavering support of our incredible volunteers who share our mission, vision, and values. 

Our Goal: $40,000 by August 20, 2024 

We are aiming to raise $40,000, and we need your help. We encourage donations of $4-$40 or more. 

Together, we can transform our community into a better society. With food inflation at an all-time high, many individuals struggle to afford essential items, especially pricier African foods. Additionally, newcomers face significant challenges in navigating the job market due to disparities in their previous experiences. Our career experts provide invaluable insights, helping candidates present themselves effectively in the Canadian job market. 

Join Us in Making a Difference! 

This is a call to action. Partner with us as we expand our services to meet the daily needs of our community. Together, we can create lasting change and build a brighter future for all. Donate today and become a vital part of the work we do. 

E-transfers can be sent to payments@kindmindsfamilywellness.org. 

Thank you for your support! 

Olusegun Isioye 

Manager of Client Services & Program Coordination 

BDS, EMBA 

Black History Month: MARKERS OF THE PAST

Greetings everyone,

I am Olusegun Isioye, Manager of Client Services and Program Coordination. I am here to share my reflections as we commemorate Black History Month in our communities.

In our pursuit of a shared and promising future, it is essential to delve into the factors that have molded our present—what I refer to as the "markers of the past." The Government of Canada notes that over 400 years ago, the first person of African heritage arrived in what is now Canada. In 1628, Oliver Lejeune became the first recorded enslaved African to live in Canada, his birth name lost to history.

I encourage you to look at the Trans-Atlantic Slave voyage image and the natural resources in Africa below before you continue with your reading.

While slavery was officially abolished in 1833, its impact lingers, particularly in the realm of identity. Identity, encompassing names, origin, culture, individuality, and the unity of the Black community, bears a significant gap in collaboration. Geographic locations contribute to varying levels of knowledge and understanding, creating a challenge to unity. This brings to mind the lyrics from Peter Tosh's song "African: "Don’t care where you come from, as long as you’re a black man, you’re an African." It is worth noting that collaborations are growing, and evident in the musical realm. American or Canadian Africans are collaborating with those in Africa, resulting in Grammy nominations, wins, and the establishment of an identity for Afro beats. I urge that these collaborations must extend beyond music into science, technology, economics, healthcare, and other sectors to amplify the greatness within us and to heal the scars of colonization.

The phrase "scars of anti-Black racism" refers to the lasting emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical impact that experiences of racism can have on individuals who are targeted based on their race, specifically those of African descent. Anti-Black racism refers to discriminatory attitudes, beliefs, or actions directed against people of African descent, and it has a long history that spans across various societies and cultures. Coping with the impact of scars from anti-Black racism is a complex and ongoing process. Here are five strategies that individuals may find helpful in managing the emotional and psychological effects:

1. Seek Support:

Surround yourself with a supportive community of friends, family, or like-minded individuals who understand and validate your experiences.

Consider joining support groups or engaging in conversations with people who have gone through similar experiences. This can provide a sense of belonging and understanding.

2. Therapy and Counseling:

Professional therapy or counseling can be a valuable resource for processing emotions and developing coping strategies.

Therapists, especially those with a background in cultural competence or racial trauma, can help individuals navigate the impact of racism on mental health.

3. Self-Care Practices:

Prioritize self-care to nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This might include activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature.

Identify activities that bring you joy and make them a regular part of your routine to counteract the negative effects of racism.

4. Educate Yourself and Others:

Knowledge is empowering. Educate yourself about the history and dynamics of racism. Understanding the roots and manifestations of racism can provide context and help combat feelings of isolation.

Consider participating in community education initiatives or sharing your knowledge with others to promote awareness and understanding.

5. Advocacy and Activism:

Engage in advocacy and activism to address systemic issues. Channeling your energy into creating positive change can be empowering.

Connect with organizations or movements dedicated to combating racism and contribute to their efforts, whether through volunteering, supporting campaigns, or participating in community events.

Remember that coping with the impact of racism is a personal journey, and it is essential to find what works best for you. Combining multiple strategies and seeking professional help when needed can contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach to managing the scars of anti-Black racism.

The scars of colonization run deep within the Black community, impacting Indigenous lands and control of resources. Many have adopted the Western ways of life, with the leadership model standing out as a poignant example. Inherited from colonial rule, this leadership style (one of a power-over stance), characterized by oppression, persists in some African nations, hindering the development and perpetuating poverty. Additionally, it focuses on natural resources over human capital and overlooks the potential of ideas (our mind and our voices) to generate greater revenue. Consequently, a significant brain drain has occurred, with talent leaving Black economies for global opportunities.

At Kind Minds Family Wellness, we are committed to nurturing leadership capabilities not only within our organization but also among our clients. We aim to foster leaders capable of solving problems, envisioning change, and, most importantly, building, and empowering Black communities and the African continent collaboratively with Africans in the Diaspora.

As leaders celebrating the heritage of members of the Black communities, consider these thoughts and questions:

How does your understanding of identity influence collaboration within the Black community, considering elements like names, origin, culture, and individuality?

Reflecting on leadership styles inherited from colonial rule, how do power-over models impact Black nations, and what collective steps can transform these paradigms?

To combat brain, drain in Black economies, how can we collaboratively promote brain gain back into our communities? What strategies will retain and nurture local talent, ensuring meaningful contributions to the development of Black economies and the African continent?

Wishing you a fulfilling Black History Month 2024 filled with reflections that inspire meaningful action toward the change we aspire to see. Cheers!

Best regards,

Olusegun Isioye

Kind Minds Family Wellness

Reference:

Government of Canada. (2023, February 01). Historic Black Communities in Canada. Canadian Heritage. https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month/historic-black-communities.html

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year from Kind Minds Family Wellness!

As we joyfully usher in the new year, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all our stakeholders who have been an integral part of our journey.

At Kind Minds Family Wellness, our commitment to providing culturally informed support to the Black community in the Kitchener-Waterloo region remains steadfast. In 2023, we worked tirelessly to foster empowerment and resilience within our community. We offered specialized Afrocentric counselling, educational and psychoeducational programs, and research advocacy to address anti-Black racism and systemic oppression.

Here is a glimpse of the impact we have made together in 2023:

Culturally Grounded Counseling: Our Afrocentric counseling services have been a beacon of support, tailored to the rich tapestry of African cultural resiliency, promoting well-being and healing.

Research & Consultancy: With proficiency and dedication, our research and consultancy services have contributed to understanding and addressing the needs of racialized and non-racialized groups, fostering actionable outcomes for individuals and organizations.

Culturally Informed Educational Programs and Groups: From children to seniors, our psychoeducational and social groups have delved into topics such as self-esteem, healthy relationships, nutrition, grief and loss, stress management, and cultural enrichment through activities like music, art, dance, cooking classes, and book clubs.

Advocacy and Education: Through workshops on anti-Black racism, education on Black culture and history, and coaching, we have actively sought opportunities to advocate for our community within systems and in the broader community.

Community Support and Engagement: We have stood alongside newcomers to Canada, facilitated sporting and extracurricular activities for children and youth, and organized clothing, back to school and food drives, creating a more supportive and connected community through our provision of system navigation – housing, legal, child welfare, immigration, health and more!

Career Services and Employment Support: Our commitment to education, career, cross-cultural leadership opportunities and employment support has manifested through services like resume writing, volunteer opportunities, coaching and mentorship, youth entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and tutoring.

As we step into 2024, we are excited about the possibilities and look forward to continued collaboration with our valued stakeholders and opportunities for accountability to community members and service users. Together, we will build on the foundation laid in 2023 and strive for an even more significant positive impact.

Wishing you a year filled with joy, success, and meaningful connections!

#HappyNewYear #KindMinds2024 #CommunityStrengths

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY: A Message from the Heart

Happy Father's Day to all fathers and those stepping in as father figures 🙌🏾

Our leadership team has this message for you 👇🏽

ED’s speech on Father’s Day!

To all the father figures out there who are invested in the lives of children and youth whose identities are pushed to the margins,

I want you to know you are powerful, resilient, and deeply valued. Your role in the lives of our children, youth and loved ones is immeasurable and essential. Your presence, guidance, and love make a lasting impact that shapes the future generation.

In a world that may sometimes attempt to diminish your worth or challenge your abilities, remember that you are a beacon of strength and inspiration. Your experiences, struggles, and triumphs have equipped you with wisdom and resilience that you can pass down to our children and youth.

By being present in their lives, you are breaking down barriers and defying stereotypes. Your love and support create a nurturing environment that empowers our children and youth to dream big, pursue their passions, and believe in themselves. You are showing them the way forward and teaching them the importance of resilience, determination, and cultural pride.

Your journey as a father figure is an opportunity to redefine what it means to be a role model. Your love transcends boundaries and instills in our children and youth the values of compassion, empathy, and justice. You have the power to shape their worldview, helping them understand the beauty of diversity and the importance of equity, inclusion and belonging.

Remember to take care of yourself too. The weight of the world can sometimes feel heavy, but you are deserving of self-care, rest, and joy. By nurturing your well-being, you show the children and youth the importance of self-love and self-care, setting an example for them.

Know that you are not alone on this journey. There is a community of support and strength surrounding you. Reach out, connect with other father figures with similar experiences, and share your stories. Together, you can uplift and empower one another, reinforcing the bonds that tie us all together.

Continue to be a guiding light, a source of inspiration, and an unwavering force of love in the lives of your/our children and youth. Your presence makes a difference, and your impact is immeasurable. The world is a better place because of you, and the future is brighter because of the love and guidance you provide.

Keep standing tall, embracing your heritage, and nurturing the dreams of those who look up to you. You are making a profound difference, and your love will create a legacy cherished for generations.

With utmost respect and admiration,

Ajirioghene on behalf of KMFW!

Celebration and learning from Black Women in our community event in the city of Cambridge

On March 31, 2023, our Executive Director and two outstanding speakers, @wounds2wings and Suzanne Trotman (sweep to learn more about them), participated in the "celebration and learning" from Black Women in our community event.

The event was one of the new series for Community Care: Black Women's Mental Health hosted by @porchlightcnd and @rhythmandbluescambridge.

KMFW is grateful for the platform and opportunity to answer and speak to the following:

Sisterhood: Does sistering offer a lifeline of support and validation?

Black women in leadership: Why their authority may be met with reluctance by stakeholders with implicit biases that lead them to doubt leadership qualities or that associate blackness with disadvantage, risk, or lack of intelligence.

Enjoy these photos and well-captured moments with the organizers and speakers 🤗

#communityengagememt #blackwomen #mentalhealth #community #speakers #notforprofit #leadership #sisterhood #sistering #support #learning

The growing diversity of Black-identified persons in our region.

Hello,

The growing diversity of Black-identified persons in our region has been well captured by one of our Research Coordinators, who is also a Master of Public Health Student at the University of Waterloo,
Grace Okusanya 🙌🏾

Grace's research revolves around increasing access to mental health for Black, Indigenous, and Racialized persons.

Analyzing both municipal, provincial, and federal data for our region, Grace compared numbers between 2016 and 2021.

So, how does this inform our work at KMFW?

Vision

Equity, inclusiveness, and community engagement.

Mission

To transform the personal narratives of Black persons and support them as they navigate systems to attain positive Self-actualization and Holistic wellness. 

Values:

Respect. Equity. Inclusivity. Openness. Diversity. Dignity and the Self-determination of our service users and their social and cultural networks. 

Commitment

We are committed to providing equitable and culturally sensitive programs and services within the evidence-based practice. We are determined to foster a safe and positive space that encourages and respects our client’s perspectives and feedback.

See?

This data and growth can only validate the need for all Black-serving organizations to intentionally ensure equitable practices, procedures, and protocols inform their services and support to Black-identifying recipients.

Want to discuss this further? Please get in touch with us at info@kindmindsfamilywellness.org

#research #statistics #regionofwaterloo #growth #blackcommunities #equity #inclusive #culture #practice #censuscanada #notforprofit



References:
Statistics Canada

KMFW collaborates on the Co-op for Community program

KMFW is grateful for the ongoing impact of the Co-op for Community program on the demographics we serve 🫶🏾

Thank you, United Way Waterloo Region Communities.

Here is what United Way Waterloo Region Communities had to say about our collaboration:

Co-op for Community is a program that we are EXTREMELY grateful for! Not only do Co-operative and Experiential Education at University of Waterloo students bring energy and knowledge to their co-op placements, but they get the opportunity to support other local nonprofits alongside their work at United Way. This term students from the program are supporting UWWRC, Crow Shield Lodge, Kind Minds Family Wellness, Peace for All Canada, and Child Witness Centre doing all kinds of work like event support, data entry and analysis, program design and evaluation and research. Speaking on behalf of the group, we are thrilled for their expertise and thoughtful participation in the local nonprofit sector, right here in Waterloo Region! #WRAwesome #locallove #UWaterlooCoop #HireWaterloo

Social Determinants and Inequities in health for Black Canadians

Hello,

Did you know:

Social, economic, and political factors share the conditions in which individuals grow, live, work, and age and are vitally important for health and well-being.

These should be the starting points for you to reflect on how racism and discrimination may contribute to how Black-identified individuals experience them 🤔

In other words, racism is increasingly recognized as an essential driver of inequitable health outcomes for Black and racialized Canadians!

And discrimination against Black people is deeply entrenched and normalized in Canadian institutions, policies, and practices and is often invisible to those who do not feel its effects 😔

Today, Black Canadians experience health and social inequities linked to processes of discrimination at multiple levels of society, including individual, interpersonal, institutional, and societal discrimination!

Please swipe for some quick facts and visit www.Canada.ca to read about the Social Determinants and Inequities in health for Black Canadians, especially their ongoing experiences around education, housing, income and employment, health, and health behaviours.
#kmfw #awareness #ourstotell #health #inequities #communityengagement #blackhistory #canada

BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROFILE

We are honored to have our Executive Director, Ajirioghene Evi’s profile featured in SPECTRUM Waterloo Region's Rainbow Community Space's weekly blog in February. The featured profiles are one of their initiatives to do more community engagement with Black, Indigenous, and racialized queer folks in our region.

So this month, you can read profiles of African, Caribbean, and Black folks making a difference in the queer community!

KMFW is thrilled to know that KOJO Institute
is working with the team at Spectrum through its program, The Foundation of Equity and Anti-Black Racism 🙌🏾

Thank you for the feature, SPECTRUM Waterloo Region's Rainbow Community Space 🙌🏾

Please visit the link below to read about the featured profile of Ajirioghene 😊

READ ARTICLE HERE

#kmfw #queer #equity #intersectionality #justice #2slgbtq+ #inclusion #commumityengagement #blackhistory #february

We are Black History!

Hello everyone,

As we welcome the month of February tomorrow, we wish to say Happy Black History Month!! ✊🏾

The 2023 theme is Black Resistance 🙌🏾

Kind Minds Family Wellness celebrates Black history and excellence every day of the year. As community members, we want you to know that you do not have to be Black identifying to reminisce on and be mindful of what is happening within Black communities- all year round!

Therefore, we would like to hearten you to embrace the following acts throughout the year:

Individuals
-Support Black-Owned Businesses
-Learn about Black History in your area, and remain updated on current Black affairs, especially in the areas of continued marginalization, oppression, and exclusions for Black persons.
-Donate - Many Black-led and Black-serving initiatives remain underfunded even in our Region; reach out and ask about the needs in such spaces.
-Volunteer. For many Black-led and Black-serving organizations like ours, volunteers are an integral part of the team. There is room for you to add to the remarkable work, and your skills, time, and experience will be well-regarded.
-Celebrate Black literature, authors, artists, art, and professionals as a whole!

Organizations
-Organize Diversity and Inclusion Events that promote conversations that will bring about changes in spaces such as places of employment and shared spaces in our community.

For the next 28 days and beyond, we want you to remember that Black history is Canadian History, and the African diaspora is core to what we stand for at KMFW. Therefore, we will continue to share various events available in the KW region and surrounding area throughout the month and the rest of 2023!

We will also highlight the Black excellence of the past, present, and upcoming future leaders. Likewise, we will share interviews, discussions, teachings, written materials, and other content from Black leaders in our community and Canada.

Lastly, our internal events/programs that celebrate Black excellence year-round will be highlighted, and they are open for all to participate in year-round 🤎

Kindly,

KMFW Team 🤎

#nonprofitorganization #activism #blackhistorymonth #blackexcellence #blackpride

Organic Leadership

We have numerous Organic Leaders in our community, and we are confident you also know a few.

Today, we introduce you to Mama Esther Kowai (pictured to the right of our ED), a resident of our Region and a member of our Wazee Senior Group. Mama Esther (as we often refer to her) is an initiator who enjoys planning, organizing, and directing joint efforts for the happiness of others.

Since migrating to Canada in 2007 from Sierra Leone, (she is of Liberian Nationality), she has continued supporting others in Sierra Leon's local communities via donated items. Mama Esther's efforts have been consistent throughout the years; however, the pandemic hugely impacted her ability to source items and send them to Sierra Leon in a timely manner.

She would appreciate the donation of the following items (ongoing):
-Used clothing (summer and spring items only) and shoes for all ages (children, youth, adults)
-Writing materials and school supplies for school-aged children
-Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, etc. )

You can communicate directly with her via her email address at estherkowai073@gmail.com
Thank you as you support her initiatives!!
#leadership #community #donations #givingback #growth #africa #sierraleon #kwregion

Reflections: Racial Diversity in Cycling

It's the weekend!!!

We share a great reflection following a community Bike Festivities sponsored by the City and hosted by us and some organizations serving racialized communities in the Region of Waterloo.

Shirley G, a volunteer contributor with KMFW, shared some hard-to-accept facts on Racial Diversity in Cycling, highlighted organizations supporting and encouraging more racial diversity in bicycling, and challenged us with a quick task to seek out diversity in cycling.

Read about this on our website (KMFW Blog).

-According to Kara Fallon, Shop Manager at Bikes Together, "generally, the bike industry defaults to this lens of a white, cisgender, heterosexual, non-disabled man with class privilege." However, this is not the true image of who the cyclists are, and it does not allow us to build safer or inclusive spaces for those who do not share this perspective. In addition, an equity view around inclusiveness means cities need an intersectional approach to planning and promoting racial diversity in cycling.

-Also, diversity of thought should help propel cycling forward in myriad ways. Kecia McCullough, a licensed master of social work and leader of the Black Girls Do Bike chapter, shared in an article that "there's a conscious effort toward dispelling old images while welcoming new and diverse perspectives." So what are these new images that promote cycling inclusion, you'd ask?

Kara Fallon recommends that municipalities/cities take a step back, create intentional spaces, listen, amplify BIPOC [Black Identifying People of Color] and trans voices, and support BIPOC and trans people in leadership positions. As a start, here is a sample of some organizations and groups close to and around South Western Ontario working to encourage more racial diversity in bicycling, along with ways you can get involved to support them.

*Ontario Cycling: Women in Cycling Steering Committee: Aims to boost equality and diversity in cycling in Ontario.

*Everyone Rides Initiative (Hamilton): They remove the barriers that prevent people from accessing bikes for transportation and fun!

* Transportation for liveable communities (Hamilton)k.=' ki88: Sustainable transportation advocacy

* The Culture Link (Bike Host): The bike Host program matches up Newcomers open to cycling with mentors who ride regularly.

* ManDem Cycling (Toronto): This is a diverse and inclusive cycling community-based program for any bike, any skill level, and they ask that you Come Outside!

*Gyaldem Cycling Collective: This is a women's cycling club in Toronto, Canada, that offers social rides for identifying women of all skill levels

*City of Kitchener Bike Festivities: They hosted their first event for Racialized communities this past June 2022. An opportunity for a fun and safe space for racialized communities to experience the joys of cycling. Learn new skills from trained instructors and go for small group rides around the City. Free training, tune-ups, refreshments, live music, kid's activities, and more!

You are welcome to add more or tag others in the comment session.

-Why #RepresentationMatters

If you need a reference for how poorly underrepresented minorities are in cycling media, visit the websites or social media of most bike brands and play the representation game:

a. How many clicks or images until you spot a POC [People of Color]?

b. What's the ratio of POC to white folks?

c. Repeat a and b with WOC [Women of Color].

Let us know how the above task was for you- mind you, this challenge from Ayesha McGowan was written in 2018, 4 years ago today! Your research will answer that not much has changed since 2018!

Still on why representation matters, Ayesha McGowan developed the above challenge in a curated article for Bicycling Titled Diversity Is Cycling's Most Urgent Problem—Here's How to Fix It (2018). Here is an excerpt from her message, and you can read more by visiting the Bicylicing.com page.

Quick information about Ayesha McGowan:

She is an elite road racer and cycling activist. You may know her from her mission to become the first African-American female professional road cyclist (which has been covered by outlets like BICYCLING, Outside, ESPN, and BBC News). She has also worked in bike advocacy, getting more women and people with disabilities into riding.

Ayesha shared ten (10) ways bike industry professionals can better promote diversity in cycling; I have highlighted them below.

1. Understand why it has to start with you.

2. Include women—and then go further.

3. Recognize it's about equity, not equality.

4. Be deliberate.

5. Know the difference between representation and tokenization.

6. Hire POCs!

7. Be creative when you scout talent

8. Keep asking questions.

9. Be willing to get uncomfortable.

10. Treat each new piece of content as a new opportunity.

Thank you for reading.

*I highly recommend reading the article by Tamika Butler (also on Bycling.com) titled, Why We Must Talk About Race When We Talk About Bikes: SYSTEMIC RACISM CAN'T BE FIXED WITHOUT TACKLING IT WITHIN CYCLING.

Images:

First: ED at KMFW, Ajirioghene (Left) and Cultural Navigator at African Family Revival Organization, Fadhwah.

Second: ED at KMFW, Ajirioghene (Left), and Event Contributor at KMFW, Lauren (right)

 Source:

Bicycling.com

The need for more supports for LGBTQ+ newcomers within Ontario

Content analyses indicate that youth-serving and settlement organizations in Canada are not doing enough to illustrate their support of LGBTQ2S+ newcomers 

---

In a content analysis conducted by Sulaimon Giwa and Ferzana Chaze focusing on 34 immigrant-serving organizations in Ontario and Newfoundland, it was found that only 9% of the organizations offered specific resources for LGBTQ Newcomers, 15% of the organizations explicitly included LGBTQ individuals in their diversity statements, 2% of organizations clearly illustrated racially diverse individuals who were intended to represent LGBTQ Newcomers and 4% of organizations provided external and additional resources for this demographic.

This, as highlighted in the article, may suggest that these organizations do not have an adequate understanding of the unique needs of the population they serve. Specifically, these organizations do not recognize newcomers as LGBTQ+ individuals who require specific supports and resources to aid with their settlement.  At its core, this issue is indicative of the lack of intersectionality among these organizations.

The same can also be said of metropolitan centers. A similar content analysis conducted by Joseph Flett found similar results among youth-serving settlement organizations within urban centers such as Toronto and Vancouver who, despite serving populations that are quite diverse, still do not display enough intersectional support for racially and culturally diverse LGBTQ+ Newcomers.

This is significant as community organizations are an incredibly important resource for LGBTQ Newcomer youth. Research indicates that racialized LGBTQ+ Newcomers often feel hesitant about reaching out to those in their community for support due to hostility towards LGBTQ+ individuals along with reports of experiencing homophobia within schools. Thus, community-based organizations work to support these already marginalized individuals. However, as illustrated, these organizations, despite claiming to be inclusive often fail to provide specific and effective services for the populations they claim to serve.

Despite the results which emerged from these studies, there are a variety of amazing organizations currently offering support to Newcomers who are a part of the LGBTQ2S+ community within our region, the Greater Toronto Area and Canada. We have compiled a list of some of these organizations below and Kind Minds Family Wellness is happy to support any LGBTQ Newcomers in connecting and navigating these resources:

Rainbow Community Council

The Solidarity Alliance is a working subgroup of the Rainbow Community Council (RCC) that formed in recognition of gaps in services and essential resources for LGBTQ+ Newcomers/refugees/immigrants to Waterloo Region. This working group is composed of community members and representatives from agencies who in some capacity work with LGBTQ+ Newcomers.

Find out more here

OK2BME

OK2BME offers a set of supportive services for 2SLGBTQIA+ identified children, teens, adults and their families in the Waterloo Region. The OK2BME program consists of three unique areas including confidential counselling services (in person or online), OK2BME Youth Groups for individuals 12-18, as well as public education, consulting and training around 2SLGBTQIA+ issues.

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SPECTRUM

Located in Kitchener, Ontario, SPECTRUM offers more than 20 different groups and activities monthly including Transgender peer support groups, games nights, SPECTRUM Prime for LGBTQ2+ adults 55+, and Rainbow Multicultural Connect.

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Access Alliance

Access Alliance celebrates Newcomer LGBTQ+ communities and advocates for equal rights for LGBTQ+ folks across the GTA. They have a variety of services including their LGBTQ+ Newcomer weekly drop-in sessions, LGBTQ+ Newcomer Cooking Together program and one on one counselling services.

Find out more here

Culturally and Racially Specific Services

The Black Queer Youth Initiative (BQY)

The Black Queer Youth Initiative is a safe space for Black, African, Caribbean and multiracial youth, aged 29 and under, who are located in Toronto, Ontario and identify as LGBTQ2S.  BQY operates as an anti-oppressive, trans-inclusive, participatory, youth-centred space that is responsive to and defined by the needs of its participants. BQY is predicated on theories of intersectionality, which explores the interdependence between multiple identity categories (e.g., race, ethnicity and sexuality) and social inequities and exclusion (e.g., racism and homophobia).

Find out more here

Salaam Canada

Salaam Canada is a volunteer-run national organizations serving cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver dedicated to creating a safe space for people who identify as Muslim and LGBTQ+. Salaam offers discussion and support groups, and social spaces while also providing queer Muslim individuals with additional resources regarding settlement services and support for those looking to emigrate to Canada by means other than claiming asylum.

Find out more here

Resources for organizations

Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation

LGBTQ+ Newcomer Safer Space Strategy

Click here to find out more!

Written by Britney Andrews

Self-Care for Kids: Tips to Help Your Family Recharge

Kids are busy these days. School, household chores, extracurricular activities, and spending time with friends take a lot of time and energy. Not to mention the additional pressures that come with social media and technology. Without balance, even kids can become overly stressed and burned out!

That's why it's so important to be a self-care role model for your child while also finding activities that can help them unwind, reset, and prepare for what life brings. Let's talk about some practical ways you can help your child develop a healthy self-care routine:

Practice It Yourself      

While children certainly have their own, innate personalities, they also pick up certain character traits and habits based on the role models in their life. If you preach good eating habits but only eat junk food, they will likely end up eating the same. To ensure your child builds strong self-care routines, build those of your own.

Start with ensuring you're eating healthy, balanced meals full of proteins, vegetables, fruits, seeds, and good fats. Incorporate regular exercise into your daily schedule — all the better if you can include your child in your fitness routine. And try the following:

●      Picking up relaxing hobbies that don't include screen time.

●      Turn off all electronics during family bonding times.

●      Getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night.

●      Taking days off for mental and physical relaxation.

Boost Your Home's Atmosphere  

The home is an outward reflection of you and your family. A tidy home can set the tone for your day, week, and month. If you go into a room and feel overwhelmed by clutter and disorganization, your children likely will feel the same emotional stress.

Take the time to assess your surroundings and the atmosphere. Get the whole family involved on a purge day; go room by room, choosing what to keep, donate, or toss if it feels crowded.

Once your house is clutter-free, organize everything. This could mean adding new vertical storage or moving furniture around. Whatever systems and structures will make life easier and cleaner for your family, it is the right action plan. As you are decluttering, rearranging, and organizing, do a thorough and deep clean of every part of your home.

If the atmosphere in your home needs a shift, here are some other things you can do to transform it into a peaceful, cheerful oasis:

●      Add extra lighting.

●      Hang more mirrors to reflect natural light.

●      Open windows to let fresh air in.

●      Play tranquil music throughout the day.

●      Diffuse lavender or wild orange.

Try Yoga       

If you can integrate yoga into your child's habits, they will reap the benefits for years to come. Not only is yoga excellent for physical stretching, balance, and strengthening, but it also helps children regulate their emotions and anxiety while improving concentration and self-discipline. Many YouTube channels (e.g., Cosmic Kids Yoga, KidsYogaStories, Yoga with Adrian, etc.) guide viewers through yoga poses in a kid-friendly way.

Establish a Weekly Family Movie Night      

Building bonds with loved ones is vital for self-care. To fill your child's love tank, plan a weekly movie night that all family members can look forward to.

Whether you watch new or old movies, make it an event. You can either cuddle on the couch or put pillows and blankets on the floor, grab your favorite snacks or sweet treats, and enjoy sparking your imagination and quality time together.

Encourage Puzzling  

There is ample scientific evidence for puzzles' benefits on the brain. Whether it is Sudoku, jigsaws, crosswords, or any number of other puzzles, encourage your child to foster a love for puzzles now so that they can reap the benefits as they age. If they stick with it, they could gain cognitive and emotional benefits (i.e., lower stress levels and better mood)!

Self-care is required for all people to live a balanced and healthy life. Teach your child what they can do to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The ideas above are a great place to start, but also consider your child's specific interest and keep trying new things that inspire their rest, health, creativity, and joy!

This article was written for KMFW by Anya Willis of FitKids.info

January 29 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Islamophobia

Today we remember the lives lost in the Quebec Mosque massacre on Jan 29. Islamophobia is real. Hate is real. It has cost us too much already. This needs to stop! We stand with the victims of the mosque shooting. We stand against Islamophobia. From https://cmw-kw.org/

What you can do to make a difference:
1) Take a moment to learn about Islamophobia in Canada.
2) Join the action against Bill 21 (Laicité Law) that promotes state-sanctioned discrimination and exclusion of Muslims and other visible minorities.
3) When/if you witness or experience Islamophobia, racism or xenophobia, report it and seek support for victims here: www.reportinghate.ca

#QuebecMosqueShooting #WeRememberJan29 #WRagainstislamophobia #CMWagainstIslamophobia #Islamophobia #StopIslamophobia #NationalDayofRemembrance #ally

Today is the International Day of Education

Today is the #internationaldayofeducation

"Education is a human right, a public good and a public responsibility.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as International Day of Education(link is external), in celebration of the role of education for peace and development.

Without inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong opportunities for all, countries will not succeed in achieving gender equality and breaking the cycle of poverty that is leaving millions of children, youth and adults behind.

Today, 258 million children and youth still do not attend school; 617 million children and adolescents cannot read and do basic math; less than 40% of girls in sub-Saharan Africa complete lower secondary school and some four million children and youth refugees are out of school. Their right to education is being violated and it is unacceptable.

This year’s International Day of Education will be a platform to showcase the most important transformations that have to be nurtured to realize everyone’s fundamental right to education and build a more sustainable, inclusive and peaceful futures. It will generate debate around how to strengthen education as a public endeavour and common good, how to steer the digital transformation, support teachers, safeguard the planet and unlock the potential in every person to contribute to collective well-being and our shared home."

- The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

#educationisahumanright #transformingeducation #educationday

KMFW Executive Director's Comments on Recently awarded grant by The Region of Waterloo

Happy Friday!

As professionals working with Black youth (ages 10 years old and upward) and through our recent engagement with these demographics in the Region of Waterloo, we have come to recognize that male-identifying youth in particular who are Black identifying are not granted many opportunities for volunteer work and paid work. This was evident in the data obtained (narratives of various systemic barriers such as anti-Black racism and discrimination that the youth shared) from our most recent leadership workshops with Black youth (one with youth who are English language learners (ELLs) and another for non ESL youth), and newcomer students in the Region.

I am so happy to commence work on this program (Leadership Skills Development and Pathway to Youth Entrepreneurship) that will run for 24 months and will create a culturally inclusive environment that demonstrates and promotes mutual respect, effective relationships, clear communication, explicit understandings of expectations, and critical self-reflection. In this inclusive environment, people of all cultural orientations will freely express who they are, their own opinions and points of view; fully participate in teaching, learning, work, and social activities; and feel safe from abuse, harassment, or unfair criticism as they learn and provide supports to low-income residents in the region.

Participants will learn hands-on, planning and budgeting; engaging with small businesses in the region; foundational skills in running a small business; customer service skills; conducting minor repairs such as drywall repair and installation, indoor painting needs, and minor home improvements for low-income families living in the Waterloo Region.

The instructors and mentors are professionals in the line of work who are invested in contributing to the growth and development of Black identifying youth in our region, as well as to our mission aimed at transforming personal narratives of Black persons, supporting and empowering them as they navigate systems in order to attain positive Self-actualization and Holistic wellness.

"No greater place to be than in a leadership position to lead young minds to prosperity"

Darrius Garrett

Thank you to the Region of Waterloo for the grant to move this work forward in our community!

#youthleadership
#communitydevelopment
#blackyouth #notforprofit

Written by Ajirioghene Evi-Cobbinnah via LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajirioghene-evi-b-a-b-s-w-m-s-w-aa47a81a9/

KMFW Leadership in Restorative Work

Our Community in Transformation: Next Steps Towards Becoming a Restorative Region

KMFW is thrilled to be a panelist in the upcoming conversation on November 25th, where together with our partner and community leaders will explore Our Community In Transformation: Next Steps Towards Becoming a Restorative Region.

The conversation will be moderated by Mike Farwell, and the panel will deconstruct principles of restorative justice, restorative practice, and transformative justice and explore how these tools can build towards a restorative region. See photos below to learn more about Mike as well as panelists Chris Cowie, ED of Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), Tafadzwa Takaendesa operations personnel of Kind Minds Family Wellness, and MPP Laura Mae Lindo.

Please register for free at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/our-community-in-transformation-becoming-a-restorative-region-tickets-178881548527