BEING BLACK IN PHILANTHROPY

Dahabo Ahmed-Omer has accumulated a wealth of experience and accomplishments in the performance measurement, policy development, HR planning analysis, and employment equity and diversity sectors. Ms. Ahmed-Omer has been the recipient of notable awards over the years, including the exceptional service within the Federal Public Service, the Canada150 Community Builder Award, the

Hope Academy community contribution award, the Ottawa Black History Community Leadership Award, the top 100 under 40 Most Influential Person of African descent in support of United Nations decade and most recently, the Globe and Mail’s Inaugural Business Changemakers Award (2021).

Jennifer Bernard is a Certified Fund Raising Professional and has held senior leadership positions within a variety of institutions across the charitable and not-for-profit landscape including the Ontario Science Centre, Royal Conservatory of Music, Trillium Health Partners and McMaster Children’s Hospital. Jennifer is currently the President & CEO of Women’s College Hospital Foundation, one of Canada’s oldest and most iconic healthcare institutions.  Throughout her career Jennifer has led a number of high performing teams and worked with volunteers to raise more than $100 million in the non-for-profit sector.

Jennifer is an active public speaker and passionate volunteer. She supports a variety of not-for-profit Boards and organizations including the Toronto Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals which supports and advocates on behalf of those within the philanthropic profession that are dedicated to building a better, more equitable world.  

In 2018, Jennifer was recognized as one the 25 most influential women in Canada by Women of Influence, joining a list of trailblazing women who have had significant impact on Canadian society.

Stachen Frederick was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Powerful Women and is the recipient of a number of social impact awards. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of community and program development, internationally, and in Canada.

Stachen is the Founder of BrAIDS for AIDS, a not-for-profit organization to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in the African, Caribbean and Black Communities in Canada, and internationally through a culturally relevant practice of hair braiding. She is the current Executive Director of Weston Frontlines Centre, a youth charity in one of the poorest ridings in Toronto.

Agapi Gessesse is an Award-winning changemaker who was named a 2020 Top Black Woman to Watch in Canada. Born and raised in Toronto to a refugee mother, Agapi’s commitment to mentoring marginalized youth stems from her lived experience, and belief in community development.

Agapi has captivated audiences on local and national stages as a commentator on anti-Black racism, workforce development and youth engagement.

Agapi Gessesse serves as the Executive Director of CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals.