It’s been more than three years since 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women (100ABCWomen) began shining a light on the brilliance of Black women across Canada. Co-founded by the Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine, Dauna Jones-Simmonds, and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green, the organization celebrates the excellence and achievements of Black, African, and Caribbean Canadian women in every field imaginable.
Their mission is clear: to document, celebrate, and amplify the achievements of Black Canadian women across every field of excellence. On Saturday, October 4th, 100ABCWomen hosted its second annual symposium, a gathering focused on the remarkable women excelling in skilled trades.
The first panel, “Being in the Skilled Trades World and Building a Career,” brought together women who have broken through barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Moderated by Marie Clarke-Walker, President of Marie Clarke-Walker Consulting Inc. and former Executive Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress, the conversation set an inspiring tone.
Panelists included:
- Natasha Ferguson, Founder of ETHELFOX Construct Group, a full-service construction and development company.
- Stephanie McLean, a Red Seal 309A journeyperson with IBEW Local 804.
- Camille Mitchell, licensed architect and founder of the Black Architects and Interior Designers Association (BAIDA).
- Elizabeth Moses, a two-time recipient of WXN Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Awards — the youngest tradeswoman to ever receive the honor.
The symposium was emceed by Emily Mills, founder of How She Hustles, a digital influencer, and event producer known for amplifying women’s voices. The event featured performances by Hemmy Reed, whose soulful saxophone filled the hall, and Rudo Forteau, a steel pan artist who fused traditional Trinidadian rhythms with modern beats, igniting the room with energy.
The second panel, “The Legal, Occupational Health and Safety, Career and Family Impact,” shifted the focus to navigating professional balance and systemic change. Moderated by Rosemarie Powell, Chair of the Toronto Community Benefits Network, the discussion featured:
- Lavina Latham, Partner at Alphonse Latham LLP.
- Lee-Anne Lyon-Bartley, Vice-President of Health, Safety, and Environment at Dexterra Group.
Their insights revealed both the challenges and triumphs of pursuing excellence while managing family and career responsibilities.
The keynote speaker, Yasmiem Fadl, AVP of Enterprise Real Estate at TD and Chair of JennAir’s Disrupting Design Advisory Board, delivered a speech that captured the spirit of transformation. Drawing from her experience in corporate leadership and advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she emphasized that true change begins when individuals dare to become changemakers. “She showed the power of changemakers to transform entire systems.”
Closing remarks came from Dr. Joel Moody, Chief Prevention Officer and Assistant Deputy Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. His call to action centered on collaboration urging stakeholders to work together toward evidence-driven solutions that make workplaces safer and more equitable for everyone.
Anyone inspired by this movement can learn more at 100ABCWomen.ca. The work of 100ABCWomen continues to empower Black women to thrive in every area of their lives. Through their advocacy, visibility, and mentorship, they are reshaping what leadership looks like in Canada’s skilled trades and beyond.
