African Centre's 2014 International Women's Day

Alberta's Council for the Advancement of African Canadians, commonly known as "African Centre", hosted Africans and non-African guests to a 2014 International Women's Day gala on March 8, 2014.

The event, which had as its theme "Inspiring Change" had Bev Esslinger, a City of Edmonton's sitting councillor as its keynote speaker.   

View photos of guests who walked the red carpet. 

Organized by a committee that was led by Beatrice Ghettuba, chair of African Centre's Board of Directors, in conjunction with various African communities, guests were treated to poetry recitation, fashion shows, including cultural dances by a Nigerian dance group led by Aniema Joseph, the vice president of the Nigerian Canadian Association, and an El Salvadorian dance group.

Beatrice Ghettuba and Tesfaye Ayalew, African Centre's Executive Director - in a welcome address to the guests - celebrated a selection of African "women of distinction" whose "nominations are based on ... inspiration for change and contribution to [African] communities, ... leadership in various fields of work, and outstanding personal achievements."

African women in various disciplines were honoured at this year's gala: awardees cut across academics, business, community service, entertainment, and health and fitness fields.