Rose Cathy Handy

We are thrilled to announce that Esther Ijewere has been recognized and celebrated as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch by CIBWE (Celebrating and Inspiring Black Women Everywhere) Canada. This prestigious award is a testament to Esther’s exceptional contributions in her field, her dedication to community empowerment, public relations, and the various fields that have earned her this prestigious accolade.

Esther Ijewere, a celebrated multi-award-winning media personality, entrepreneur and ardent women’s advocate, has used her influential Women of Rubies platform to shine a spotlight on over 5,000 remarkable women worldwide. Her tireless efforts in amplifying women’s voices and championing gender equality through her NGO, Rubies Ink Initiative for Women and Children have made a substantial impact on society.

The awards ceremony, held in Mississauga on the 28th of October, was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the iconic Jean Augustine, Charmaine Williams, Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, and the esteemed Senator Amina Gerba. The visionary behind the CIBWE awards, Rose Cathy Handy, founded the platform to celebrate and inspire the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black women.

Esther Ijewere’s Acceptance Statement:

Esther Ijewere expressed her profound gratitude for the honor, saying, “I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch Award from CIBWE. It is a privilege to be recognized among such a distinguished group of inspiring women. This award is a testament to the collective efforts we make to create a better world. I am committed to continuing my work in uplifting and empowering women, and I am dedicated to the cause of gender equality. This award further fuels my passion for positive change, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead.”

About Women of Rubies

Esther’s profound work with Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to showcasing and uplifting women from all walks of life, is emblematic of her unwavering commitment to positive change. With an unshakable belief in the power of women’s stories to drive positive change, Esther has curated numerous impactful events, including the Media Visibility Bootcamp, aimed at equipping women with the tools they need to amplify their voices and broaden their impact. Women of Rubies stands as a beacon of inspiration, fostering a community where women’s achievements and aspirations are celebrated, and their voices heard.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact; admin@womenofrubies.com

See more photos from the event;

Esther Ijewere Women of Rubies — Esther Ijewere (L), Latoya Mullings ( C) and Funmilayo Odeniyi (R)

Esther Ijewere Cibwe Awards — From Left: Pamela Anoliefo, FOla Adegoke, Esther Ijewere and Sheila Akpota

women of rubies — Esther Ijewere and Angela Ikogho

In the rich tapestry of Canada‘s multicultural landscape, stories of resilience and triumph often stand as pillars of inspiration. Among them, the remarkable journey of Rose Cathy Handy, an immigrant from Cameroon, shines brightly. From being the CEO of H.E.R Consulting and Services Inc. to founding the Celebrating Immigrant Black Women Excellence (CIBWE) Awards, Handy’s story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and community.

Creating a Vision of Empowerment

Rose Cathy Handy’s journey commenced with a simple yet profound vision – to create an event that not only uplifts the women of her home country but also celebrates and elevates Black women, both immigrants and natives to Canada. This event would become a platform to showcase their achievements, resilience, and perseverance in the face of adversity. With this vision, the CIBWE Awards were born.

Shining the Spotlight on Achievements

The inaugural CIBWE Awards marked the realization of Handy’s dream. Beyond recognition, the event ignited a sense of unity and empowerment among Black women. It celebrated their strength and contributions, offering a space for their stories of triumph and success to be heard and appreciated.

A Sister’s Legacy and a Growing Movement

Handy’s commitment to her sister’s memory became a driving force behind her work. Beyond a single event, CIBWE expanded its scope and evolved into an organization dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the accomplishments of Black women across Canada and even beyond its borders.

Empowerment Through Unity

CIBWE has become more than an event – it’s a movement that amplifies the voices of Black women, providing a stage for them to share their journeys and insights. The organization showcases achievements across a myriad of fields, from business and leadership to arts and academia. In a world where representation is vital, CIBWE stands as a symbol of unity, empowerment, and positive change.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change

The journey of Rose Cathy Handy, from immigrant to visionary leader, exemplifies the profound impact that passion and determination can have. Through CIBWE, she has crafted a legacy that serves as an inspiration to Black women, demonstrating that their excellence knows no bounds.

Uniting Dreams for a Brighter Future

As we applaud Rose Cathy Handy’s accomplishments and the remarkable journey of CIBWE, we are reminded that progress begins with a dream and the unwavering resolve to transform that dream into reality. Handy’s story underscores the power of unity and the potential to create a world where every achievement is celebrated, regardless of the challenges faced.

In honor of Handy’s sister and the countless Black women striving for greatness, her journey shines as a beacon of hope. It reaffirms that when individuals unite to uplift and empower each other, a brighter future is within reach, where achievements are limitless and empowerment is shared by all.

Esther Ijewere Honored With CIBWE Canada’s Top 100 Black Women To Watch Award