Mercy Itohan Osayi: Why I’m Committed To Fostering Stronger Communities
Mercy Itohan Osayi is a dedicated advocate for women and youth empowerment in Canada. As President and Founder of Women of Dignity International ( WODI), she champions initiatives aimed at nurturing personal growth and community building.
Educated at Auchi Polytechnic, Delta State University, and the University of Lagos, Mercy’s professional journey includes roles in public relations and customer service. She holds certifications in Canadian Retail, Customer Service Excellence, and Workplace Essentials.
Active in her community, Mercy serves on various boards and engages in social impact projects. Through WODI, she spearheads programmes providing training and support to empower individuals.
Mercy also leads initiatives celebrating Black history and Edo culture, fostering pride and awareness. Her commitment to empowerment extends beyond her professional life, reflecting her dedication as a wife, mother, and community leader. In this exclusive interview with ESTHER IJEWERE, she shares her story.
Inception of Women of Dignity
International ( WODI)
STARTING Women of Dignity International stemmed from a deeply personal journey intertwined with the broader narrative of immigrants and their integration struggles. My own experiences navigating the process of integration in Canada ignited a spark within me to make a meaningful difference.
Arriving in a new country is inherently challenging, but what struck me most was witnessing the stress and hurdles that many women face in the process. Whether it was linguistic barriers, cultural differences or systemic challenges, it became evident that there was a significant gap in support for women in particular.
The vision for Women of Dignity International emerged from this realisation – a vision to create a supportive and empowering community where women could find resources, guidance, and camaraderie as they navigate their journey in Canada. Our organisation is built on the belief that no one should feel isolated or overwhelmed during the process of integration.
Drawing from my own experiences and those shared by other women, I was inspired to establish a platform that not only addresses practical integration needs but also fosters
a sense of belonging and dignity. Our mission encompasses providing a range of services, from language classes and job training to social support networks and advocacy initiatives.
Ultimately, Women of Dignity International is driven by the desire to alleviate the stress and challenges associated with integration, ensuring that every woman feels valued, respected and empowered as she builds a new life in Canada.
Empowering women and youth: WODI’S Canadian impact
WODI serves as a vital support system for women and youth, offering them resources, guidance, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through various programmes such as mentorship initiatives, skills training workshops, and educational seminars, WODI equips individuals with the tools they need to thrive in Canadian society.
Furthermore, WODI plays a crucial role in advocacy and awareness- building. By amplifying the voices of women and youth from diverse backgrounds, WODI sheds light on issues such as gender equality, immigrant rights, and social inclusion. Through community outreach programmes and public campaigns, WODI strives to create a more equi
table and inclusive society for all. Significance of Black History Month
Black History Month is pivotal for recognising Black Canadians’ contributions. It initiates acknowledgment and sets the stage for increased representation in governance,
entrepreneurship, education, and more.
How her Edo cultural background shapes WODI’S initiatives
Drawing from my Edo heritage, I’ve been profoundly influenced by the strength and resilience of Edo women. Historically, Edo women have been regarded as warriors, embodying courage and determination in the face of adversity. This rich cultural heritage forms the foundation of my approach at WODI.
I am deeply committed to showcasing the beauty and richness of Edo culture through our initiatives. From promoting traditional arts and crafts to celebrating cultural festivals, preserving our heritage is a central aspect of our work at WODI. By embracing and honouring our cultural identity, we empower women to take pride in their heritage and heritage, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community.
Award for Prime Minister Trudeau: Recognising leadership in diversity
At Women of Dignity International, we felt compelled to honour Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a beacon of leadership and progress during Black History Month.