Journal staff
A new retreat-style fundraiser hosted by the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Centre aims to showcase diverse voices, says executive director Chantel Butterfield.
“The goal is to be inspired — plain and simple,” Butterfield said of the inaugural “Inspire 2022,” happening May 28 at the Fox & Hound Canine Retreat arena in Bright’s Grove.
“It was also important for us to host an event where the focus isn't on the heavy work we do at the centre.”
The International Women’s Day-inspired event includes keynote speakers Shreya Patel and Shayla Stonechild.
“It’s not only a celebration of women-identified individuals,” added Butterfield. “But of Indigenous and racialized women and their unique perspectives and journeys to become top in their fields. We are holding ourselves accountable to amplifying the voices of speakers we don’t usually see within our community.”
India-born Patel, a former Sarnian and filmmaker, was recently named one of Canada’s Top 100 most Powerful Women. Her company, Window Dreams Productions, was showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival for the film “Girl Up,” which sheds a light on human trafficking in Canada.
Stonechild is a Metis and Nehiyaw Iskew (Plains Cree) influencer, TV host, yoga instructor and founder of Matriarch Movement, a podcast and non-profit that shifts the narrative of Indigenous Women.
They’ll be joined by local influencer and Sarnia Speaks founder Danielle Catton, and Marika Groendyk, trauma-informed communications expert and founder of Bluepoint PR.
“The day is meant as a celebration, with messages that inspire and empower,” Butterfield said of the event, which includes catered lunch from Call The Chef, vendors, prizes and recognition of local women.
“We plan to host this event annually and continue to celebrate unique voices and have this be something people really look forward to,” she added.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Inspire 2022
WHEN: May 28, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: The Fox & Hound Canine Retreat
DETAILS: For more information, visit http://www.sexualassaultsarnia.ca/events/inspire-2022