Who We Are
Rooted in Africa. Connected in Canada.
The African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO) Canada is part of an international movement dedicated to advancing women’s leadership, building meaningful connections and creating opportunities for greater influence.
Our chapter brings together women of African heritage and diverse backgrounds, professionals, entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, community advocates and allies. We believe leadership extends beyond titles: it means opening doors, sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others.
In Canada, we are building an inclusive network where women can connect across cultures, generations and professions, strengthen their leadership potential and contribute to meaningful change.
Our Purpose
What Guides Our Work
Our Mission
To connect, empower and advance women and emerging leaders.
Through mentorship, leadership development, strategic alliances and community engagement, creating pathways for greater influence and meaningful impact in Canada and beyond.
Our Vision
A Canada where women have opportunities, networks and influence to lead.
Where women of African heritage and diverse backgrounds are recognized, represented and equipped to shape inclusive and prosperous communities.
The Visionary Behind AWLO
Dr. Elisha Attai
Founder & International President, AWLO
Dr. Elisha Attai founded the movement that grew from a regional women’s leadership conference into the international African Women in Leadership Organisation. His founding vision helped establish a platform for leadership development, advocacy, collaboration and opportunity across Africa and the diaspora.
His vision continues to inform AWLO’s international mission and the work of its chapters, including AWLO Canada.
Our Global Heritage
Our Journey: From Accra to the World
From a regional conference to a global network, AWLO’s story is one of leadership, collaboration and growing international influence.
Where the Movement Began
The first West African Women in Leadership Conference (AWLC) created a platform for women’s leadership and collaboration.
A Stronger Voice for Women
Opened by former First Lady Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, the conference helped catalyse advocacy for 35% affirmative action in women’s representation.
Beyond the Continent
AWLO’s first US conference brought the movement to the global diaspora and opened a new chapter of international connection.
From Vision to Community Impact
AWLO Canada’s inaugural gathering marked the start of its community engagement journey, creating a space for women, emerging leaders, professionals and allies to meet, exchange information and share experiences. The gathering encouraged women to learn about one another’s work, support emerging ideas and initiatives, and explore opportunities for mentorship, volunteer engagement and collaboration.
Leadership Without Borders
AWLO World Convention Canada marked an important milestone in the chapter’s international leadership journey.
Theme: Minds, Market, and Movements: Elevating Women’s Leadership for Global Impact.
A Global Movement in Motion
The Canada Diaspora Summit, UK launch, and PAALA DC reflected AWLO’s growing international reach and connections across continents.
Canada Diaspora Summit Theme: Women Building Belonging and Influence.
Leadership in Canada
The People Building Our Chapter
AWLO Canada is supported by a dedicated team of unpaid volunteer leaders who generously contribute their time, skills, and expertise to advance our mission. Working collaboratively, our Canadian leadership team helps build an engaged and sustainable chapter through strategic coordination, responsible resource stewardship, communications, and meaningful community partnerships.
Amb. Don Mathias
Executive Director
Supports international organizational leadership and coordination across AWLO’s network.
Stephanie Innocent
Vice President
Provides strategic leadership and coordination for chapter development, partnerships, membership growth and community engagement.
Jayne Ugboma
Finance & Resources Coordinator
Supports financial coordination, resource planning and responsible stewardship as the chapter develops its activities.
Rufina Irielle-Joseph
Communications Lead
Supports chapter communications, visibility and engagement with members and the wider community.
Amb. Mariam Adam
Global Public Relations Officer
Supports AWLO’s international communications, public relations and visibility.
What Guides Us
Leadership Grows Through Connection
Inspired by the spirit of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — we believe progress is stronger when people share opportunities and support one another. Our work is guided by five principles.
Connection
Relationships across cultures, professions and generations.
Leadership
Encouraging confidence, voice and participation.
Opportunity
Opening pathways to mentorship and collaboration.
Inclusion
Welcoming diverse perspectives and men as allies.
Legacy
Creating opportunities that extend beyond ourselves.
Our Canadian Commitment
Building Belonging. Expanding Opportunity.
AWLO Canada seeks to create spaces where women can build relationships, exchange knowledge, explore leadership and mentorship opportunities, and contribute to their communities.
We recognize the experiences of newcomers, women of African heritage and women from diverse backgrounds who are building personal, professional and community networks in Canada. Through gatherings, leadership conversations and strategic partnerships, we aim to turn connections into meaningful opportunities.
We are building more than a network. We are building a community where leadership creates opportunities for others.
Our Work in the Community
Leadership in Action. Connection with Purpose.
AWLO Canada brings people together to exchange knowledge, champion women’s leadership and support community participation. Our Annual Diaspora Summit is our flagship convening platform. Alongside it, our community initiatives create welcoming opportunities for connection, mentorship, intergenerational learning and mutual support, including women and HeForShe allies.
Our initiatives include Tea, Talk & Everything Else, Women’s Networking Circles and Golden Connections. Activities are developed and delivered as resources and partnerships permit.