I had the opportunity to speak last night at the Indo-Canadian Arts and Culture Initiative’s (ICACI) gala celebrating International Women’s Day and the achievements of Indo-Canadian women. I got a traditional dress for the evening, which I must say, was a hit!
It was great to meet The Hon. Dr. Kellie Leitch, Canada’s Minister of Labour and the Status of Women, who was in attendance and said a few words in honour of International Women’s Day and her new initiatives for women and girls.
(The Hon. Dr. Kellie Leicht)
A number of awards were handed out to some extraordinary women for their accomplishments. There was traditional dance performances, music and (my favourite) traditional Indian food. We were joined by the Consul General of India, Mr. Akhilesh Mishra and his lovely wife, and my friend, Reeti Mishra.
The “hero” award recipients are:
Arts and Culture – Anu Vittal, Artist and Poet
Diversity – Puja Amin, Founder, Sanskriti Arts
Performing Arts – Vandana Vishwas, Musician
Media – Anjum Nayyar, Founder, Masala Mommas
Entrepreneur – Renu Mehta, Founder and President, Imagebuilderz
Community Leadership – Deepti Aurora, Philanthropist
Congratulations to all!
There were entertaining Bollywood performances by Sanskriti Arts, and singing by Vandana Vishwas and Raghbir Chauhan.
Here is Mokshi Virk, Director, ICACI on stage with the young dance performers and our lovely emcee:
Selfie with talented artist and friend, Bhavna Bhatnagar…
And a very special THANK YOU to Mary Tripi, owner, The Private World of Mary Tripi salon, for making my hair presentable for the event!
More photos to be posted soon – the professional ones! 
Always uplifting to celebrate women’s achievements….
Shannon