We are a grassroots youth group, organized and run by young women in the City of Ottawa (which is located on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Annishanabe People)

OUR TEAM
Circle Profile Photo Social Media Abstract Shapes (7)

Hi! My name is Nayaelah (she/her). I was born and raised in the Middle East and immigrated to Canada with my family at the age of 12. I grew up speaking Hindi, Urdu & English as my family is from India. I am passionate about creating a more equitable world and building solutions that allow minorities to thrive. To date, I have travelled to 22 countries, and been on more than my fair share of walking tours (because I love learning about history). I can be found near delicious food, craft stores, and pretty stationery, or on a plane to my next adventure.

Circle Profile Photo Social Media Abstract Shapes (9)

Hi! My name is Fariba (she/her). I am a first generation Bangladeshi immigrant, having moved to Canada at the age of eight. I’ve spent most of my life in Ottawa, where I’m currently completing my Masters in Neuroscience at the University of Ottawa investigating psychiatric symptoms that occur in Alzheimer’s disease. When I’m not doing science, I’m either eating or sleeping or eating some more.

Circle Profile Photo Social Media Abstract Shapes (3)

Hi! My name is MJ (she/her). I am mixed-race and a second generation Bengali immigrant. I was born in Vancouver but have lived all across Canada. I am currently completing my Master of Environment Studies at Dalhousie University, but my background is in Communications. You can find me anywhere there are plants, saltwater, good food, drinks, and company. 

Circle Profile Photo Social Media Abstract Shapes (4)

Hi! My name is Shaza (she/her). I am a first generation Pakistani immigrant. I moved to Ottawa, Canada at the age of 2 and have lived here my entire life. I am currently completing a Masters in Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Ottawa, with a particular focus on fatty liver disease and dietary interventions. I can be found anywhere with board games, books, art and surrounded by nature, sweets and laughter!

Circle Profile Photo Social Media Abstract Shapes

Hi! My name is Kathy (she/her). I am a second-generation Chinese immigrant, born and raised in Ottawa. I am currently completing my Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa studying emergent viruses, including the virus responsible for COVID-19. I’m passionate about chocolate, naps, and travel, but have an absolute hopeless sense of direction.

Here are some reasons to join

  • I joined empower’em in order to help create a safe space for women in which they can engage in various activities ranging from community involvement to skill development and grow as strong and confident individuals. I feel like there are not as many resources and/or organizations that bring these values to women as there should be, but empower’em is one of the few that truly strives to empower women of all backgrounds

    Shaza Asif

  • I joined Empower'em to help create events that would empower women in my community

    Annette Kattackal