International Women's Month 2023
/
Today marks the end of International Women’s Month. A time devoted to celebrating the achievements of women across the world.
As a Black woman in business navigating the arts and fitness space, I can tell you first hand that the journey has been met with much adversity. However, it also has been filled with such beauty and growth that I am truly grateful for.
“Women should be celebrated every day…It doesn’t just honor the iconic women who have changed history, but encourages new generations to dream big and know that anything is possible.”
I vividly remember key points along my journey where other women empowered me through moments of elevation, grief, and celebration. From Joanna Parris, Carla Catherwood, to my gym teacher who supported me co-facilitating the first dance and cheer team at my high school. Many were catalysts in building my confidence, gaining clarity and expanding on my goals. That is one of the reasons why I am so passionate about doing the same for others.
With that said, I challenge anyone who is reading this to advocate and amplify woman in your community doing great work. Not just during International Women’s Month, but all year round. The impacts could be far greater than you can imagine.
When You See It, You Can Be It!
Women of colour continue to blaze the trail in a variety of professions, roles and networks. Truly upholding the message “When You See It, You Can Be It!”, they not only give hope and inspiration to those around them but they also show future generations of women what is possible.
I would like you to meet four ladies who I absolutely admire! Each are from different industries and backgrounds but what they all have in common is the amazing work they are doing in their respective fields. Covering areas such as social media, to wellness, and entertainment. They are so talented and dynamic but most importantly, they are driven by a greater purpose.
It is such a pleasure watching these ladies flourish while they champion for their communities and TAKE UP SPACE in their industries. Know them - Support them - Amplify them!
Sofia Aguilar
COLOMBIAN
Sofia Aguilar is a faith-based influencer, digital creator, speaker and social media content strategist who has helped over 250 businesses across North America make their voice heard on social media. She is on a mission to help small business owners, high level entrepreneurs, CEOs and brands create an authentic digital presence that gets them results, visibility, and engagement without the burnout, stress and frustration that is often attached to content creation. Sofia is considered to be the “Amazon Prime of content creation” by helping people create tangible, organic and lasting results quickly and efficiently so that her clients are one step closer to building a brighter future for them, their business and their families.
What advice would you give to 13-year-old Sonia?
“If I could give a piece of advice to 13 year old Sofia, I would tell her to make cultivating friendships and connections a priority in her life instead of approaching those situations with fear and hesitation. A key mantra in my life as an adult is “collaboration over competition”. There are so many amazing women and communities out there who want to support you, celebrate you and see you succeed. I would want 13 year old Sofia to know that she doesn’t have to go through all the challenges of teenagehood and growing up, alone. I would tell her to get involved in her community, join groups and lean into her interests to find others who share the same. It’s amazing how a mindset tuned in to connection can be so valuable and make all the difference in every aspect of life.” - Sofia
Check out some of Sofia’s current offerings:
SPEAKING / TRAINING ON SOCIAL MEDIA - Sofia is a sought after speaker whose talks can be niche-centred or appeal to a wide range of audiences and industries. Regardless of the topic, one thing remains consistent: audiences will witness a motivating, high energy session that will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to elevate your digital presence to new heights.
VIP CONTENT DAY - Sofia’s signature service will allow you to walk away with a full month’s worth of powerful, engaging content designed to CONVERT. Learn more here.
(photo credit: Tatiyanna Williams-Britton of TruCreates)
Sonia Jhas
CANADIAN (South Asian Heritage)
Sonia Jhas is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and award-winning mindset and wellness expert. She is fired up by her mission to help people marry healthy living with a life lived well. Her special brand of inspiration and wisdom involves tried-and-true techniques that help people unlock lasting momentum and unapologetic self-fulfillment. Sonia’s enthusiasm, sense of humour, and openness about her own journey have earned her a reputation as an unstoppable force in the wellness arena.
What advice would you give to 13-year-old Sonia?
“Stop trying to square-peg-round-hole your soul. Don’t spend your time and energy angsting about whether you’re good enough for the outside world. Instead, get to know who you really are, what you really like, and what you really want for yourself, and then build a life around that. Ultimately, that’s the only way you'll feel good in your skin.” - Sonia
Check out some of Sonia’s current offerings:
I’LL START AGAIN TOMORROW - In Sonia’s newly released book, she shows you how to overcome the self-sabotaging beliefs and behaviors that are preventing you from conquering your wellness goals. Serving up tough love, inspiring personal stories, wellness insights, and piercing questions, Jhas guides you through the difficult and joyful journey of self-discovery to help you finally get unstuck. Read “I’ll Start Again Tomorrow” here.
MOMENTUM WITH SONIA JHAS is exclusive content that will tackle 4 major pillars: mindset, fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle. Access Sonia’s signature Momentum resources for free here.
Brigitte Truong
CANADIAN (Chinese Heritage)
Brigitte is a Multimedia Host, Producer and a forward thinking digital Content Creator in lifestyle and entertainment. Her personal brand of interviewing and storytelling over the past fourteen years has garnered the attention of some of the largest global lifestyle brands; most recently USA TODAY and CICC in China who signed her on as the American host of their new streaming series, Sister Cities. With an unwavering commitment to sharing diverse stories and perspectives, Brigitte’s work in front of and behind the camera aims to educate and inspire female self-starters like herself to live with intention and create with purpose.
What advice would you give to 13-year-old Brigitte?
“Believing in yourself is where it starts and losing it is where it all ends. So don’t lose that belief.” - Briggitte
Check out some of Brigitte’s current offerings:
HOMEGIRL NATION PODCAST - Join Brigitte each week as she meets with courageous female guests who make their own way despite the odds. The candid discussions you hear will give you a new perspective on how freeing and empowering it can be when you own your story and unapologetically share your most vulnerable lived experiences with the world. Listen to the Homegirl Nation Podcast here.
Omega Mighty
CANADIAN (Jamaican/Bajan descent)
Canadian R&B-fusion/dancehall artist Omega Mighty has an eclectic sound, switching from Jamaican patois, smooth sultry vocals and an energetic rap flow with confidence. Her 2021 EP "Me & Youforia" put her on the map with the exploration of genres such as r&b, dancehall, afro-beats and pop. Omega started in music early training in classical piano at the age of 4, vocal by age 6 and dance by age 9. Growing up in what is known as the most diverse city in Canada "Toronto", Omega has been exposed to varying rich culture which has helped to shape her sound. Omega has since been seen gracing the stages of various festivals including RBC Canadian Open, Canada Day Vancouver, Riverfest, AfrowaveTO and more opening for acts such as Flo Rida, Johnny Reid, Fefe Dobson and Mother Mother. Wearing multiple hats, Omega brings together energetic stage performances as singer-songwriter, producer, and creative director.
What advice would you give to 13-year-old Omega?
“Just start the thing. You will fail along the way which is your opportunity to learn and improve.” - Omega
Check out some of Omega’s current offerings:
FOLLOW OMEGA’S ARTIST PROFILE ON SPOTIFY - Omega’s spotify profile features many of her smash hits including her newly released single: “Badgirl Workout”. See link to her Spotify artist profile here.
MINIK CREATIONS - Omega is also dedicated to helping organizations, small businesses and professionals engage with their audiences through live events. Whether that is a fundraiser event, an intimate conversation, a celebration, or a networking opportunity, she has had the honour to work with some amazing organizations making impact in the community.
