Photo by Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo.
Good morning folks
We start this December news with the passing of yet another community icon, this time our friend, matriarch and mentor Nelly Mgbemena, our Top Story for the month. Those who got to know Nelly speak highly of her kindness, compassion and generosity, especially within Ottawa’s Nigerian community. Black Ottawa Scene expresses its condolences to the family. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.
On a happier note, we bring you news of honours to three of our community leaders and advocates: Gwen Madiba and Ikram Jama both receiving awards from Crime Prevention Ottawa; and Dahabo Omer who is ranked as one of the 2021 Women of the Year by Bay Street Bull newspaper. Another Black woman making the headlines, and not for the first time, is Venessa Kanu who is named Chief Financial Officer of the Year by the Ottawa Business Journal. Out in the west coast, Dalhousie University’s Professor Rita Orji was acclaimed as one of Canada’s 100 most powerful women by the Women’s Executive Network.
On the political front, Black women have made their mark in the recently concluded municipal elections in Quebec, the highlight being the election of Gracia Katahwa as mayor in Côte-Des-Neiges. In the November edition, we had featured the successful Black candidates in the October federal election; we shall keep tracking the progress of people of African descent in the political arena, as we seek a place at the communal Canadian “dining” table.
Here is the result of the November 2021 survey: Have you received at least one Covid 19 vaccination? Yes 100% No 0%. Thank you to all who voted. Remember to take part in the December survey: In the light of the ongoing Covid pandemic, do you plan to attend an indoor house party or dinner party during Christmas or the New Year?
All these and more in the December 2021 edition of your favourite Black news magazine.
Wishing you and your loved ones warmest wishes for a happy Christmas and a peaceful, productive New Year.
Godwin Ifedi Editor