Innisfil Indian Association Celebrates Women's Achievements at Second SHE-ROSE Gala

On Saturday, March 8, the Innisfil Indian Association hosted its second annual SHE-ROSE Gala to mark International Women's Day. The event, titled "SHE-ROSE," meaning "She is a hero," featured a keynote address by Shirin Ariff, an award-winning author, transformational coach, and advocate for women's empowerment.

Deepak Bidwai – Local Journalism Initiative

Ariff shared her personal journey as an immigrant who overcame an abusive marriage and serious health challenges, including cancer and facial paralysis, to build a successful life in Canada. She recounted her experiences of feeling disempowered in India and later enduring eight years of mental, emotional, verbal, and financial abuse in her marriage.

“I came to Canada on a spousal visa with the hope and promise of a fresh start,” Ariff told Simcoe Community Media. “However, I ended up in an eight-year-long abusive marriage. Coming from a background where we were taught to remain silent about such things, I felt ashamed to share my story until severe illness forced me to confront my reality. My pivotal moment was on the surgery table.”

The gala also featured a panel discussion moderated by the association’s vice president, Su Sahu. Panelists included professionals from the legal, educational, sports, religious, and business sectors, who discussed the daily challenges and successes women encounter while managing their careers and families.

The panel included:

- Shirin Ariff, keynote speaker, transformational coach, and award-winning author.
- Deepa Mattoo, Executive Director of the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic and a Supreme Court lawyer advocating gender equity.
- Suzie Addison-Toor, Vice President of Student Success at Georgian College.
- Amanda Patrick, entrepreneur and philanthropist dedicated to community development.
- Rev. Krista Moore, minister at Churchill and Gilford United Churches.
- Shanicka Edwards, founder and president of Shak's World Association, focused on youth empowerment through sports and mental wellness.
- Nicole Bowman, Director of Operations for the Town of Innisfil.

The event concluded with the presentation of the Outstanding Women’s Achiever Awards, recognizing local women for their significant contributions:

- Health & Wellness Advocate – Nina La Costa
- Youth Empowerment Leader – Tara Filteau
- Educational Excellence – Christine Baker
- Entrepreneurship Excellence – Suba Rasanathan
- Arts & Culture Leadership – Angela Aujla
- Sports Leadership & Achievement – Shanicka Edwards
- Community Impact Champion – Myrlene Boken
- Trailblazer of the Year – Cheraldean Duhaney

Shanicka Edwards, recipient of the Sports Leadership & Achievement Award, emphasized the importance of sports in her own journey, stating, “Sports have deeply impacted me. Basketball opened opportunities I never imagined. It’s my safe space and how I've built connections and family. Being recognized for using sports as a catalyst for community impact is an honor.”

The Sherose Gala aims to highlight women's resilience, strength, and accomplishments while promoting empowerment within the community.