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Khamica Bingham is a Canadian Olympic sprinter who specializes in the 100 metres and has represented Team Canada at the highest levels of international competition. From the Olympic Games to the World Championships, Bingham has established herself as one of Canada’s premier track and field athletes.

Born on June 15, 1994, in North York, Ontario, Khamica Bingham’s journey to becoming a Canadian Olympic sprinter did not begin on the track. She was originally a national-level gymnast before transitioning into sprinting during high school due to the financial burden gymnastics placed on her family. That shift would ultimately shape her legacy in Canadian athletics.

Khamica Bingham’s Early Career and Breakthrough

Khamica Bingham’s speed became evident early in her track and field career. In 2012, she competed in the 100 metres at the IAAF World Junior Championships, finishing fourth and signaling her arrival as one of Canada’s rising sprint talents.

Her development accelerated as she became a key member of Canada’s women’s 4×100 metre relay team. Alongside Kimberly Hyacinthe, Crystal Emmanuel, and Shai-Anne Davis, Bingham helped set a national record, strengthening Canada’s position in global women’s sprinting.

As a Black Canadian athlete, her presence on international relay teams also expanded representation at the highest levels of track and field.

Khamica Bingham at the Olympic Games

In July 2016, Khamica Bingham was officially named to Canada’s Olympic team, achieving one of the most significant milestones in any athlete’s career. Representing Team Canada at the Olympic Games placed her among the elite 100 metre sprinters in the world.

She later competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics, further solidifying her reputation as a consistent and high-performing Canadian Olympic sprinter.

Competing at the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships demonstrates not only speed but longevity and resilience in an intensely competitive sport.

From Gymnastics to 100 Metres Specialist

Khamica Bingham’s transition from gymnastics to track and field is a defining part of her story. Switching sports at a young age required rebuilding her athletic identity, retraining her body, and developing elite sprint technique.

Her success illustrates adaptability and determination, qualities essential for sustained performance in professional athletics.

For many young athletes, particularly those navigating financial or structural barriers, her story proves that a change in direction does not mean a loss of potential.

Khamica Bingham
Photo: Khamica Bingham (Instagraam)

Representation and Black Excellence in Canadian Sport

As a Black Canadian Olympian, Khamica Bingham represents visibility and excellence in women’s sport. Track and field has long been a space where Black athletes have made global impact, and Bingham continues that tradition within Team Canada.

Her achievements contribute to Canada’s growing legacy in women’s sprinting and inspire the next generation of athletes who aspire to compete at the Olympic level.

Beyond medals and race times, her career symbolizes perseverance, discipline, and national pride.

Khamica Bingham’s Legacy in Motion

Today, Khamica Bingham remains recognized as one of Canada’s top 100 metre runners. Her participation in multiple Olympic cycles and international competitions reflects both elite performance and enduring commitment to her craft.

From a young gymnast in Ontario to an Olympic sprinter competing on the world stage, Khamica Bingham’s journey is one of transformation, speed, and impact.

She is not just running races — she is building legacy in Canadian track and field.

FAQ: Khamica Bingham

What event does Khamica Bingham compete in?
She specializes in the 100 metres and also competes in the women’s 4×100 metre relay.

Has Khamica Bingham competed in the Olympics?
Yes. She represented Canada at the 2016 Olympic Games and the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Where is Khamica Bingham from?
She was born in North York, Ontario, Canada.

Nigerian‑Canadian computer scientist Dr. Rita Orji has been appointed as one of 40 global experts to the inaugural United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. This landmark panel, the first of its kind, is tasked with providing independent scientific assessments on how AI is shaping societies, economies, and daily life around the world.

Dr. Orji was selected from a highly competitive pool of over 2,600 applicants from more than 140 countries. She is the only Nigerian and one of just two Canadians on the panel, marking a significant milestone for global representation in AI governance.

Leading Research in Human-Centred AI

Dr. Orji is a Professor of Computer Science at Dalhousie University and directs the Persuasive Computing Lab. Her work focuses on designing AI and digital technologies that are human-centered, ethical, and equitable. She develops systems that encourage behavior change and improve well-being, bridging technology and human behavior in innovative ways. Her research spans human-computer interaction, adaptive systems, persuasive technology, and digital interventions that have practical applications in health, education, and social impact.

Recognition and Achievements

Over the course of her career, Dr. Orji has authored hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and received millions of dollars in competitive research funding. She has been recognized among the world’s top two percent of scientists and has received prestigious awards, including Canada’s Arthur B. McDonald Fellowship for early-career research excellence. She has also been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women in STEM and recognized among the Top African Women in STEM, reflecting her influence both nationally and internationally.

Her pioneering research has consistently highlighted the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in technology. By designing AI systems that prioritize access and ethical engagement, Dr. Orji has established herself as a leader in shaping not just technological innovation but the social impact of AI globally.

Impact Beyond Academia

In addition to her research, Dr. Orji co-founded TechForward Impact, a platform dedicated to advancing ethical and inclusive AI. The initiative cultivates talent pipelines for underrepresented communities, promotes global collaboration on AI safety, and provides mentorship and education for the next generation of technology leaders. Through her work, she ensures that AI development benefits all communities equitably and responsibly.

Her appointment to the United Nations panel underscores her role as a leading voice in AI governance. As part of this global advisory body, Dr. Orji will provide evidence-based guidance to policymakers, advocate for inclusive technological development, and help shape international strategies for AI deployment that prioritize human rights, safety, and societal well-being.

Shaping the Future of AI

Dr. Rita Orji’s appointment is a milestone not only for her career but also for representation in science and technology. Her work exemplifies the potential of AI to transform lives responsibly while emphasizing fairness and inclusivity. As artificial intelligence continues to influence every aspect of human life, voices like Dr. Orji’s are essential in ensuring that technological progress is both innovative and equitable.

With her extensive research, global impact, and dedication to mentoring the next generation, Dr. Orji stands at the forefront of the international AI conversation, helping to ensure that advancements in technology create meaningful opportunities for people worldwide.

Born in Toronto to Jamaican immigrants and raised Pentecostal in the Jane and Finch neighbourhood, Jully Black’s story is rooted in faith, culture, and resilience. Exposed to music at an early age, her undeniable talent led to her discovery by Warner-Chappell Music at just 19 years old.

She later joined the Hip Hop collective The Circle alongside artists such as Kardinal Offishall and Tara Chase, a formative moment that would shape her sound and presence in Canada’s music scene.

Earning the title “Canada’s Queen of R&B,” Jully Black has released four studio albums and collaborated with global artists including Nas, Destiny’s Child, and the Black Eyed Peas. Her contributions to music earned her a Juno Award in 1997, followed by numerous nominations throughout her career, cementing her as one of Canada’s most respected vocalists.

But Jully’s influence extends far beyond music.

In 2008, she hosted the Canadian Radio Music Awards and later became a celebrity reporter for CTV’s entertainment program Etalk. In 2021, her decades-long impact was recognized with an induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame, a defining milestone in her legacy.

In 2023, Jully Black made national and international headlines during her performance of the Canadian national anthem at the NBA All-Star Game. By changing the lyrics to “our home on native land,” she sparked powerful conversations about truth, reconciliation, and Indigenous recognition, a moment that led to her being honoured by the Assembly of First Nations.

Her artistry also shines on stage and screen. From Da Kink in my Hair (both stage and television) to the critically acclaimed stage production of Caroline, Or Change, Jully has proven her range as a performer. Her theatrical work earned her both the Toronto Theater Critics Award for Best Lead Performance and the Dora Mavor Moore Award.

Beyond performance, Jully Black is a committed social activist. In 2018, she launched 100 Strong and Sexy, a wellness membership program focused on women’s physical and mental health. In 2022, she founded the Jully Black Family Foundation in honour of her late mother, Agatha Gordon, supporting the education of young women in Ontario.

Jully Black represents more than musical excellence; she embodies courage, culture, and community leadership. Her voice has not only shaped Canadian sound but continues to influence national conversations around identity, equity, and empowerment.

Her legacy is still being written boldly.

In 2026, history was made at Montreal City Hall as Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month). Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, she became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious honor, cementing her place in history while celebrating Black excellence and cultural legacy.

This recognition is a testament to Dr. Fagbohun’s decades-long dedication to empowering women, uplifting entrepreneurs, and championing inclusive communities. She is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer, brand strategist, and dynamic speaker. Over the past 20 years, she has blended innovation, beauty, and social impact to create safe spaces where women can thrive in business and wellness. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 individuals globally and leads a worldwide community of more than 40,000 beauty enthusiasts.

As the Founder of Montreal Vendors, a business growth hub, Dr. Fagbohun supports over 17,000 entrepreneurs across Canada, providing visibility, strategic growth opportunities, and advocacy for inclusion. Through her vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand, Niffy Signature, and her Niffy Wellness Foundation (@niffywellnessfoundation), she redefines beauty through health, sustainability, and empowerment.

Her work has earned her a place among the Forbes Universal Women Network, leadership boards, and global mentorship programs, including the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program for Black youth in Montreal. Featured internationally by media outlets like CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, Dr. Fagbohun continues to shape global conversations around leadership, cultural pride, and entrepreneurship.

A Historic Recognition at Montreal City Hall

In 2026, history was made as Dr. Fagbohun signed the Canadian Historic Golden Book as a laureate during Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs (Black History Month) at Montreal City Hall. Recognized alongside the Mayor of Montreal and directors of the Round Table for Black History Month, this milestone marks both a personal achievement and a collective victory for representation, excellence, and community impact.

A First for Nigerian Representation in Quebec

In the 35-year history of Montreal’s Black History Month, which honors 12 laureates annually, Dr. Fagbohun became the first Nigerian in Montreal, Quebec, to receive this prestigious recognition. Her accomplishment underscores the power of representation and highlights the importance of visibility in shaping inclusive narratives.

Empowering Through Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Dr. Fagbohun’s work extends far beyond personal achievements. As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, she provides Canadian entrepreneurs with visibility, mentorship, and strategic growth opportunities. Through Niffy Signature, she promotes safe and informed beauty practices globally, while her Niffy Wellness Foundation serves girls aged 10 and above, as well as women across Montreal, focusing on wellness education, confidence-building, and empowerment initiatives.

Her influence spans public speaking, authorship, mentorship, and cultural advocacy. Proudly rooted in her Ijebu heritage, she champions cultural relevance while shaping global conversations around leadership, representation, and diversity.

A Global Voice and Community Champion

Dr. Fagbohun’s work has been featured by CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian, among others. Her recognition as a 2026 Black History Month Laureate affirms her dedication to empowering women, supporting entrepreneurs, and elevating Black excellence across Canada and beyond. She also serves as a Doctoral Fellow at the Global Institute of Leadership and Development and mentors young people, including Black youth in Montreal, through the Gemstar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program.

Nifemi Fagbohun Laureate

Celebrating Black Excellence and Cultural Legacy

Black History Month is a time to reflect on resilience, celebrate achievements, and recommit to building equity for future generations. For Dr. Fagbohun, this recognition is not just personal, it is a testament to community-driven leadership, cultural pride, and the transformative power of consistent effort.

This milestone is dedicated to the supporters, collaborators, mentees, and global audiences who believe in her vision. It is a celebration of collective advancement, cultural representation, and the enduring impact of Black excellence in Canada and worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As we honor the 2026 laureates of Mois de l’Histoire des Noirs, Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that entrepreneurship, wellness, and community impact can coexist to create lasting change. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers committed to leaving a mark on the world.

Congratulations to Dr. Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun on this historic achievement.

Storytelling shapes memory, culture, and power. When Black stories are told with care, context, and intention, they become tools for preservation, resistance, and transformation. Few voices in Canadian media embody this responsibility as thoughtfully and consistently as Amanda Parris.

Amanda Parris is an award-winning Canadian broadcaster, writer, playwright, and cultural curator whose work has helped reshape how Black stories are told and received across Canada. Through journalism, television, theatre, and documentary storytelling, she has created space for Black voices to be heard without dilution or compromise.

A Career Rooted in Culture and Curiosity

Amanda is an arts reporter and producer with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Over the years, she has hosted and contributed to several CBC platforms, including The Filmmakers, Exhibitionists, From the Vaults, and the CBC Music radio series Marvin’s Room. Her work spans television, radio, digital media, and live cultural conversations, positioning her as one of the most respected cultural commentators in the country.

She also writes Black Light, a weekly column for CBC Arts that explores Black creativity, identity, and cultural expression with depth and insight. In 2016, she co-hosted the Polaris Music Prize ceremony alongside Tom Power, further cementing her role as a trusted voice within Canada’s arts and music landscape.

Storytelling Beyond the Screen

Amanda’s impact extends far beyond broadcasting. In 2017, her debut theatrical play, Other Side of the Game, was staged by Toronto’s Obsidian Theatre and Cahoots Theatre. The play offered a deeply nuanced exploration of Black womanhood, ambition, and identity. After being published in book form, it went on to win the Governor General’s Award for English-language drama in 2019.

Her work continued to evolve across mediums. Other Side of the Game was later adapted into a three-part release for the theatre podcast PlayME in 2021, expanding its reach to new audiences.

Another notable work, The Death News, written by Amanda and directed by the late Charles Officer, is a filmed stage monodrama set in a near-future where premature Black death is treated as inevitable. Commissioned as part of 21 Black Futures, an anthology series for CBC Gem, the piece responds to the question of what the future of Blackness looks like. Inspired by radio death announcements in Grenada, Amanda envisioned the work as a form of resistance to mainstream media’s failure to tell nuanced and humane Black stories.

Education, Advocacy, and Cultural Leadership

Before joining CBC, Amanda co-founded Lost Lyrics alongside Natasha Daniels, an arts education initiative that used theatre, poetry, dance, music, and film to engage youth at risk of dropping out of school. This early work reflects a consistent thread throughout her career: storytelling as a tool for empowerment and social change.

In 2022, Amanda was recognized with the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television’s Changemaker Award, alongside Kathleen Newman-Bremang and Kayla Grey. She has also received multiple accolades for her work, including recognition for Best Writing in a Web Program for The Death News.

That same commitment to innovation continued with projects such as Revenge of the Black Best Friend, a comedy web series she created in 2022, and the launch of For the Culture with Amanda Parris in 2024. The documentary series profiles pressing issues within Black culture, continuing her mission to center Black voices with honesty and care.

Honouring Her Impact This Black History Month

Women of Rubies celebrates Amanda Parris for her unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling and cultural preservation. Her work reminds us that representation is not just about visibility, but about intention, integrity, and truth.

By centering Black stories across platforms and generations, Amanda Parris continues to redefine what it means to tell stories that matter, stories that endure, and stories that truly belong to the people they represent.

In an era where visibility, trust, and narrative control define brand success, Cynthia Mwangi stands out as a force shaping how stories are told, received, and sustained across Africa’s media landscape.

A multifaceted PR, Marketing, and Communications expert, Cynthia brings nearly two decades of experience spanning broadcast journalism, digital marketing, inbound strategy, and high-impact communications. Her career reflects not only longevity, but evolution, adapting with intention as media, audiences, and platforms continue to shift.

Leading Brand Strategy in Broadcast Media

Cynthia currently serves as Brand Manager at Hot 96 and Deputy Radio Digital Manager at Royal Media Services Ltd, Kenya’s leading media house. In this role, she operates at the intersection of content, operations, revenue, and digital growth.

Her responsibilities include overseeing programming and station operations, driving revenue generation, and leading the development and execution of station-specific digital and social media strategies. Through her leadership, Cynthia ensures brand consistency, relevance, and audience engagement across both traditional broadcast and digital platforms.

Her work reflects a deep understanding that modern media success is no longer siloed,it requires cohesion between on-air storytelling, online engagement, and measurable business outcomes.

Cynthia Mwangi

Building Brands With Intention Through Cyn Communications

Beyond broadcast, Cynthia is the founder of Cyn Communications, a strategic communications firm dedicated to elevating brand reputation and driving meaningful engagement.

Through her consultancy, she partners with organizations, public figures, and institutions to design and execute innovative communications strategies that align visibility with purpose. Her expertise spans:

  • Media relations and brand positioning

  • Political campaign communications management

  • Crisis communications and reputation management

  • Social media strategy and execution

What sets Cynthia apart is her ability to navigate both traditional and digital channels, using each strategically to amplify reach while maintaining message integrity.

Recognition Rooted in Impact

In 2024, Cynthia Mwangi was recognized as one of the Top Women in PR by the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), an acknowledgment that reflects not just professional excellence, but her influence in shaping ethical, effective, and future-forward communications.

Her work demonstrates that strong storytelling is not about noise, but about clarity, strategy, and trust.

A Woman of Rubies

As a Woman of Rubies, Cynthia Mwangi represents leadership grounded in expertise, adaptability, and service. Her career is a reminder that communications is not just about visibility, it’s about shaping narratives that move industries, influence public perception, and create lasting impact.

Through media, strategy, and mentorship, Cynthia continues to redefine what it means to lead with purpose in an ever-evolving communications landscape.

Sherley Joseph is a Canadian podcaster, media producer, and community builder whose work has helped shape the landscape of Black Canadian storytelling for more than a decade. Through audio, publishing, and community-led platforms, she has consistently centred culture, identity, and lived experience, creating space for voices that are too often overlooked.

With over 10 years of experience in audio storytelling and digital media, Sherley is best known as the creator and co-host of The Sherley and Clove Podcast. What began as a conversation-driven platform has grown into a cultural archive of more than 800 episodes, exploring everyday life, Black identity, creativity, and the nuances of lived experience through honest dialogue.

Building Black Canadian Creators

Over the past 3–4 years, Sherley has expanded her impact through Black Canadian Creators, a national media platform and community dedicated to spotlighting Black Canadian creatives, independent media, and cultural storytelling. The platform serves as both a visibility engine and a connector, linking creators to opportunities, resources, and pathways for sustainable growth.

Through publishing, podcasting, events, and strategic partnerships, Black Canadian Creators has become a trusted space where stories are amplified with intention, care, and cultural context. At its core is Sherley’s belief that creators deserve not only exposure, but ownership, agency, and longevity in their work.

Amplifying Northern Voices in Podcasting

Sherley is also the founder of BlkPodNews: Northern Voices, a platform committed to amplifying podcasting and independent audio storytelling across Canada. By highlighting creators and stories from across the country, BlkPodNews challenges dominant narratives and expands what Canadian media looks and sounds like.

Her work in audio storytelling extends into live spaces as well. Sherley serves as a co-organizer and curator of The Soundwave Summit, a national conference focused on podcasting, community building, and creative entrepreneurship. The summit brings together storytellers, producers, and media professionals to learn, connect, and build together.

Recognition and Impact

In 2024, Sherley was selected as one of 20 independent digital newsrooms for the CJF Digital Catalyst: Mentorship for Independent News, as part of the inaugural cohort of the CJF NextGen Creator-Journalists program. The recognition reflects her long-standing commitment to independent media, ethical storytelling, and community-centred journalism.

Black Canadian Creators

A Woman of Rubies

Sherley Joseph embodies what it means to be a Woman of Rubies, leading with consistency, care, and cultural clarity. Her work is rooted in community, driven by purpose, and sustained by a deep respect for the power of story. Through sound, platform-building, and collaboration, she continues to create spaces where Black Canadian voices are heard, valued, and preserved.

As media continues to evolve, Sherley remains committed to building ecosystems, not just platforms, where creators can thrive on their own terms.

Learn more about Sherley’s work on her website and Instagram page

The legendary costume designer has earned her fifth Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design for her work on Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, officially making her the most-nominated Black woman in Oscar history across any category. With this milestone, Carter extends a legacy that has not only shaped cinema but also paved the way for future generations of Black creatives.

Before this year’s nomination, Carter was tied with Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis at four nominations. She now stands alongside Spike Lee and Morgan Freeman, each with five nominations, ranking among the most-recognized Black creatives in Oscar history. Only Quincy Jones (seven nominations) and Denzel Washington (nine nominations) stand ahead.

A Career Rooted in Cultural Storytelling

Ruth E. Carter is widely celebrated for her ability to use costume as storytelling, honoring history, culture, and identity through design. Her work has consistently elevated Black narratives on screen, most notably in Black Panther (2018), for which she became the first Black woman to win an Oscar for costume design. Her nomination for Sinners further solidifies her role as a cultural architect in film.

In this year’s Best Costume Design category, Carter joins an accomplished group of nominees including Deborah L. Scott (Avatar: Fire and Ash), Kate Hawley (Frankenstein), Malgosia Turzanska (Hamnet), and Miyako Belizzi (Marty Supreme).

Breaking Barriers and Earning Oscars

Carter’s work on Marvel’s Black Panther marked a watershed moment in cinema. The costumes were more than outfits, they were symbols of pride, power, and identity, rooted in Afrofuturism and rich African tradition. For this achievement, she became the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.

She repeated that historic win with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, becoming the first Black woman to win multiple Oscars in any category, a distinction that cements her legacy while spotlighting how rarely Black designers have been recognized at Hollywood’s highest levels.

Now, with her fifth Oscar nomination — this time for her work on the period-rich Sinners, Carter has surpassed legendary actresses and creatives to hold the record for the most nominations of any Black woman in Oscar history.

Design Philosophy: Culture, Respect, and Visual Truth

Carter’s approach to costume design centers on truth and representation. For Sinners, set in the early 20th-century American South, she described her work as an act of cultural preservation, using clothing to protect and reflect the lived realities of Black working-class life rather than merely embellishing characters. This level of nuance and historical sensitivity has defined her career.

Her designs don’t just dress actors; they tell their stories. Whether it’s the vibrancy of African-inspired regalia or the layered texture of Depression-era clothing, each piece becomes a visual narrative that deepens audience engagement with the story.

More Than an Oscar Nominee: A Cultural Legacy

Beyond the Oscars, Carter’s contributions extend to education and inspiration. Her memoir, The Art of Ruth E. Carter, chronicles her creative journey and creative philosophy. Her work has been featured in traveling exhibitions exploring Afrofuturism in Costume Design, showcasing how cinematic costume can reflect identity and imagination.

She also serves on the Academy’s Board of Governors for the Costume Designers Branch, helping shape the future of the industry and championing greater diversity in storytelling.

Celebrating Legacy, Visibility, and Impact

Ruth E. Carter’s achievement is more than a personal milestone, it is a reminder of the power of sustained excellence and representation. Her work has not only shaped cinematic worlds but has also expanded what visibility looks like for Black women behind the scenes.

At Women of Rubies, we celebrate moments like these because they reflect the very essence of our mission: honoring women who break barriers, build legacies, and redefine what leadership and creativity look like on a global stage.

Ruth E. Carter’s legacy is still unfolding, and history is watching.

Esther Ojo, a Canada-based registered nurse, cultural entrepreneur, and community wellness advocate, has officially launched DUURA, a premium medical and professional apparel brand designed for individuals who spend long hours on their feet, working under pressure and constantly in motion.

Built at the intersection of design, technology, and function, DUURA was created to meet the real-world demands of healthcare professionals and performance-driven individuals who require more from what they wear, without compromising comfort, structure, or style.

At the core of the brand is Motion Engine™, DUURA’s proprietary performance system that guides how each garment is shaped, how fabrics stretch and recover, and how long-lasting comfort is maintained through extended shifts and high-demand environments. Every seam, fabric choice, and silhouette is intentional, engineered to support movement, confidence, and endurance.

“DUURA was born from my lived experience in healthcare,” says Ojo.
“I know what it feels like to work long, demanding shifts while constantly moving. I wanted to build apparel that truly supports the body, not just aesthetically, but functionally and sustainably.”

Unlike trend-driven fashion labels, DUURA is built on systems, not seasons. The brand focuses on longevity and performance, creating garments that adapt to stress, movement, and real-world use while maintaining structure over time.

Introducing DUURAFIT

DUURA’s flagship performance collection, DUURAFIT, is designed for high-demand environments where mobility, durability, and function are essential. Powered by the Motion Engine™ Performance System, the collection features ergonomic patterning, technical fabrics, and functional design details engineered to support full-range movement throughout long and demanding shifts.

The DUURAFIT collection is built to perform under pressure — without sacrificing comfort or form.

A Founder Rooted in Purpose and Community

Beyond her career in nursing, Esther Ojo is the founder of Teoafrocarib Market, a cultural store that celebrates African and Caribbean culinary traditions while serving as a hub of identity and belonging for immigrant communities. Her work consistently reflects a deep commitment to service, culture, and community empowerment.

“DUURA represents care in motion,” Ojo adds.
“It’s a reflection of my belief that the people who give so much of themselves deserve apparel that supports them at every step.”

A true Woman of Rubies, Esther Ojo continues to lead with compassion, excellence, and purpose. With the launch of DUURA, she introduces a new standard in performance apparel, one that honours the resilience and dedication of professionals who show up every day under pressure.

Learn more about Duura here

Follow Duura on Instagram here 

Oluwanifemi “Niffy” Fagbohun is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, five-time bestselling author, and internationally trained Chemical and Polymer Engineer. With two decades of cross-industry experience, she has built a remarkable career that blends innovation, beauty, and empowerment. Her journey reflects the power of passion and purpose in driving transformation for women around the world.

Building a Community of 17,000 Entrepreneurs

As the Founder and Director of Montreal Vendors, Niffy leads a thriving network of more than 17,000 entrepreneurs in Quebec. Through this platform, she champions visibility, economic access, and cultural inclusion for small businesses and creatives. Her leadership has positioned Montreal Vendors as one of Canada’s most dynamic ecosystems for diverse entrepreneurs.

Redefining Beauty Through Safe and Sustainable Practices

Niffy is also the visionary behind Niffy Signature, a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand that prioritizes health, safety, and sustainability. Through her work, she has empowered over 15,000 women globally by providing education, training, and access to safe beauty products. Her dedication to ethical entrepreneurship extends to the Niffy Wellness Foundation, a nonprofit advancing beauty health, mentorship, and wellness education for women and girls in underserved communities.

Global Recognition and Impact

Niffy’s groundbreaking work has been featured in major media outlets such as CityNews Montreal, Ticker News Australia, and The Guardian Nigeria. Her contributions to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment have earned her numerous awards, including the Canadian Choice Awards (2024 & 2025) for Health and Beauty, Top 100 Black Women of Excellence to Watch in Canada (2023), and the Global Entrepreneurs Award (2025).

Leadership, Mentorship, and Global Advocacy

Beyond her businesses, Niffy serves on leadership teams with Playmas Montreal, CDNBCA, Gemstar School of Excellence, and Black Engineers of Canada. As a proud member of the Forbes Women Network, she uses her platform to mentor women and advocate for inclusivity in leadership.

A dynamic international speaker, she has delivered presentations across Canada, Nigeria, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, inspiring audiences with her message of confidence, purpose, and wellness.

Confidence and Purpose

Through her foundation, bestselling book Your Beauty Police, and global advocacy, Niffy continues to create safer, more inclusive spaces for women and girls. Her life’s work embodies the essence of empowerment — proving that beauty, business, and leadership can all coexist when rooted in purpose and integrity.