Contributors

MEET OUR TEAM

Myles Jones
Myles Jones
Photo Editor

During my retirement, I developed a keen interest in photography and computer graphics and was glad to use my talent to contribute to the development of this book that promotes the successes and achievements of Black Women in Canadian society. It is to the authors’ credit to produce this book and it is hoped that many may read it and feel a sense of pride in the positive accomplishments of the Black Women of Canada.

Floydeen Charles-Fridal
Floydeen Charles-Fridal
Public Relations and Dignitary Support

Being involved with this project has been a great experience, as I learned as much about myself as I did about others. It has been an honour to be part of this very important work on behalf of Black Canadian Women who have accomplished so much and in so many ways—much of which is not known locally, provincially, and across this country. To be part of a team lead by the Honourable Jean Augustine, Dauna Jones-Simmonds, and Denise O’ Neil Green has been rewarding. More rewarding though is knowing this book is a resource that will accurately and truthfully reflect the value added by the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women to Canadian society. I do hope that as you read it, you will see a reflection of yourself in at least one of these women. Their accomplishments have been on behalf of all who make up the beautiful Canadian mosiac.

Raphael Caldeira
Raphael Caldeira
Graphic Design and Printing Expert

It has been a privilege to work on a project that conveys a positive, inspiring and eye opening message; not only to women, but also to a young man from England. Helping with this project has shown me that the only obstacles holding us back from our potential are the ones we put in front of us. So thank you to all these inspirational, confident and successful women. And thank you for allowing me to be a part of this. Peace, love and unity!

Dr. Shannon Meadows
Dr. Shannon Meadows
Chief Editor and Coordinator

I have really enjoyed working with this wonderful group. The experience of reading these powerful stories and insightful anecdotes left me exhilarated and inspired. Congratulations to the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women celebrated in this book!

Valerie Jones
Valerie Jones
Researcher and Editor

When I was invited to participate in the project on accomplished Black women in Canada, I was intrigued. I am now thrilled to have participated in documenting the accomplishments of the posthumous heroes, the invisible women who pursued their challenges with perseverance, grace, and dignity. I have learned so much. I have lived in Canada for forty-five years, yet I was not aware of many of these women. I ask myself how many young people are aware of what these women endured to make life better for all of us? Congratulations to Dauna, Denise, and Jean for seeing this project through to fruition. May it be a legacy for future generations of what can be accomplished. May the achievements of these heroes enlighten others to realize that all races are capable of great things.

Juannittah Kamera
Juannittah Kamera
Social Media Coordinator

It was such an honour to work with this group of amazing and passionate women dedicated to recognizing the achievements of so many incredible women. I am very inspired by what these women have done and continue to do. Congratulations to all those who were nominated and this year’s 100 Accomplished Black Women.

Paulette Kelly
Paulette Kelly
Researcher and Nominee Support

I enjoyed working on this project for a number of reasons. It provided an opportunity for me to learn about a vast number of Black Canadian women who have made major contributions to our country and community. This book is a tribute to the hard work and accomplishments of these role models. Current and future generations now have a reservoir of information and knowledge of Canadian Black history. Additionally, while participating in this project, I got to meet and work with a group of highly motivated and resourceful women.

Norma Wilson
Norma Wilson
Researcher and Editor

First, let me thank the three authors for bringing to the forefront these life glimpses of 100 awe-inspiring women. I am “over the moon” that I got the opportunity to participate in bringing the publication to fruition. Why and what did I gain? I met 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women through their bios from which the profiles for the book were developed. It was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my post-retirement life. I literally relived some of my work life as a librarian and human resources specialist. I honed in on my research and writing skills. My team player skills helped me deal with people effectively. This has been a rewarding experience. Working with Dauna and her team was a joy. Acquiring this book will be money well spent. Congratulations to all—the authors, the nominees, the participants, and the people who will purchase this valuable publication. Be proud and be blessed.

Ettie Dawkins
Ettie Dawkins
Event Planner

When I received an invitation from the Hon. Jean Augustine to attend an information session on this project, my curiosity was stirred. After listening to the presentation and the pros and cons from those in attendance, it was clear this publication was necessary and very timely. For me, it is a gift to meet and work with a team of dedicated women who answered the call to enlighten and leave a legacy for future generations. It is an eye opener to learn of these accomplished Black Women, and I am grateful for the opportunity to play a role in coordinating the celebration gala.

Susan Hunter
Susan Hunter
Communication Advisor

Canada’s history and culture is enriched by diversity. We see this richness reflected in our arts, in business and politics, and is the result of the achievements and accomplishments of many, including the phenomenal women profiled in this book. The 100 accomplished women are truly pioneers and trailblazers in their fields, and they have made a lasting impact on Canada. I am honoured to be part of this project working with a wonderfully talented and energetic team led by Dauna Jones-Simmonds and the Honourable Jean Augustine. We are all indebted to them for their vision and determination to bring the stories of these incredible women to light; their stories need to be told in classrooms and in our homes.

Sarah Bukhari
Sarah Bukhari
Researcher

It was an absolute pleasure to work with everyone on this project. I am so grateful I was able to contribute in a small way, and my administration to all the team knows no bounds. Thank you for allowing me to be part of such an important project.

Mandissa Arlain
Mandissa Arlain
Website Coordinator and Researcher

It’s been a thrill and honour to have been allowed the opportunity to contribute to this book project, and through contributing, I’ve been gifted with enlightenment and inspiration. Congratulations Accomplished Black Canadian Women. I know your stories will inspire generations to come as they have inspired me.

Ajay Grover
Ajay Grover
IT Consultant

I think in life it happens you reach a stage and you want to start over again and you seek motivation for another journey.After reading the success stories of these 100 Accomplished Women, how they have fought against all odds and shine. I have got rejuvenated again and ready to start something new in life. I would like to thank to all the team members without whom this project wouldn’t have possible and it’s been an honor to work with such a wonderful team and entrusted me to complete the task.

Cecile Peterkin
Cecile Peterkin
Event Supporter, Advisor, and Sales Support

When I heard about this project, I immediately wanted to become involved. So, I decided to volunteer to work on the Nominations/Research committee—a rewarding decision. I learned so much and was inspired by the accomplishments and contributions of these Black women. I hope their stories will have the same impact on future generations as they did for me.

Sombo Saviye
Sombo Saviye
Editor and Profile Coordinator

It has been a joy working on this project. As I read through these incredible womens’ profiles, I appreciated learning about their contributions to Canada and how they overcame their personal challenges. I am grateful to have been exposed to the 100 ABC women, some of whom I’ve met; some whose achievements I would not have known of had I not been part of this project; and some who are involved in the health and co-operative housing sectors that are part of my career. This is a must-have book as it bears messages of courage and hope. Congratulations to the 100 ABC women who through this medium, share their achievements and invaluable advice with women worldwide and inspire us all to follow our dreams. Thanks to Hon. Jean Augustine, Dauna Jones-Simmonds, and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green for this amazing publication. Dauna, thank you for getting me on board with the wonderful editing team!

Janet Tyrell
Janet Tyrell
Proof Reader

Congratulations to Dauna, Jean, and Denise for recognizing the need for this worthwhile and timely publication and for following through with it. Congratulations also to all my “sisters” for making such a valuable contribution to society without expecting any reward. You have made a contribution both to society and posterity. It is for me an honour and a privilege to be able to help with this publication in some small way.

Loretta Jones
Loretta Jones
Communications Coordinator

Congratulations to the co-authors for creating a format to recognize these accomplished and inspirational women. Through this book, I hope these ABC Women’s legacies will inspire us to realize our potential and reach out to others. At the launch of the project, I was enlightened and impressed by a room filled with predominantly women who are very accomplished in their various fields and lives. They shared their views and ideas so articulately about the selection criteria for the nomination process. Everyone was so passionate and so engaged. It was a very productive evening. I felt very proud to have been involved in this process, and I’m honoured to have made a small contribution to the publication of the book. Congratulations to the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women.