Gala WARABA 2023: Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs of Diversity

Montreal – The Gala Waraba 2023 honored African women entrepreneurs established in Canada, in an evening filled with emotion, pride, and recognition. Organized by the Réseau des Femmes d’Affaires Africaines (REFFA), the event, now in its second edition, brought together leaders, institutional partners, and entrepreneurs around a common goal: valuing and supporting African women’s entrepreneurship.

Several award winners were recognized for their remarkable contributions in various sectors, ranging from private education to real estate construction, investment management, and social innovation.

“It’s a beautiful celebration, a beautiful recognition of women in business. I am very honored to have received the Award of Excellence for my companies, which extend from education to real estate,” said with emotion Rayond Jab Gomis, award winner and entrepreneur heading a dozen companies. A survivor of three cancers and mother of four children, she delivered a powerful testimony of resilience and courage.

The evening also gave the floor to key players in Montreal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Carl Achi, representative of PME Montréal and jury member, emphasized the importance of such an event: “The Gala Waraba highlights inspiring African women entrepreneurs. Our role is to support them through financial tools, guidance, and networks to strengthen their economic independence,” he explained.

For her part, Henriette, a prize recipient, praised the evolution of African women’s entrepreneurship in Quebec: “Twenty years ago, nobody was talking about African women’s entrepreneurship. Today, seeing this room filled with strong and diverse projects warms my heart. We are no longer alone.”

Several partner organizations expressed their support, including the Afro-Entrepreneur Fund, which provides financing and guidance to entrepreneurs from Black communities, as well as Start-Up, an organization that supports women entrepreneurs in the social economy. “Our mission is to help these women build solid and sustainable structures so they can be independent and long-lasting,” said Cindy, communications officer at Start-Up.

The event also celebrated exceptional journeys. Aladi, from the Mamikaya World group, officially received her Waraba trophy for leadership this year, following her 2022 distinction. “Being recognized by my peers, African women entrepreneurs like myself, is an immense honor,” she declared.

Frédéric Pierre, of Chantier d’Afrique du Canada, recalled the impact of such initiatives: “Shining a light on women entrepreneurs in the community is essential. They actively contribute to the economy and inspire the next generation.”

The evening was marked by speeches filled with pride. Cécilia Macedo, municipal councillor, said she was “very impressed by the strength and social impact of African women entrepreneurs,” highlighting their driving role in Quebec’s and Canada’s economy.

Finally, Jacqueline, founder of REFFA and organizer of the event, closed the evening by receiving a surprise trophy. Deeply moved, she dedicated this recognition to her mission: “I am proud to have listened to the voice of the Lord who told me to put my sisters in the spotlight. My message to women is simple: dare to undertake. Your boldness will liberate millions of others.”

The Gala Waraba 2023 confirmed the importance of initiatives that value diversity and promote economic autonomy. By celebrating the journeys of Africa’s “lionesses,” it paves the way for a new generation of entrepreneurs, inspired and determined to transform their communities.