On March 8, 2026, the WMEN Foundation Edmonton proudly celebrated International Women’s Day under the theme “Celebrating Women’s Wellness.” Founded with the support and mentorship of Action for Healthy Communities (AHC), the organization continues to empower women and girls through community-driven initiatives focused on health, connection, and cultural engagement.
This impactful event brought together 54 women aged 15 to 65, along with young girls aged 8 to 14, creating a vibrant, intergenerational space rooted in celebration, learning, and community connection.
Promoting Women’s Mental Health Awareness
The first segment of the event focused on women’s mental health, an increasingly important topic in today’s conversations around wellness and equity. Guest speaker Sujata Poudel led an insightful discussion encouraging women to break through longstanding stereotypes surrounding mental health.
Participants explored practical ways to:
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- Recognize early signs of mental health challenges
- Overcome stigma in diverse cultural contexts
- Seek support and access community resources
This session highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, especially among newcomer and culturally diverse communities, where barriers such as stigma, language, and access often persist.
Building Community Through Culture and Networking
The second segment shifted focus toward cultural celebration and networking, reinforcing the importance of connection and belonging. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and strengthened community ties in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Events like this are essential for fostering social inclusion, community engagement, and women’s empowerment, particularly for newcomers navigating new systems and social landscapes.
A Celebration of Culture and Connection
The event concluded with a delicious Nepali lunch, bringing participants together over food—an important cultural connector that fosters dialogue and shared understanding. The atmosphere reflected a strong sense of volunteerism, unity, and celebration.
A Growing Community Impact
Since its establishment and registration in 2023, WMEN Foundation Edmonton has continued to grow as a grassroots organization supporting women and families. With ongoing mentorship from AHC, the organization successfully received the Supporting Employment and Economic Growth (SEEG) Grant in both 2024 and 2025, enabling them to expand their programming and community reach.
Why Events Like This Matter
International Women’s Day events like this play a critical role in advancing:
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- Women’s wellness and mental health awareness
- Community support for newcomers
- Cultural inclusivity and diversity
- Youth engagement and leadership development
By creating safe and supportive spaces, organizations like WMEN Foundation Edmonton are helping build stronger, healthier communities.
Looking Ahead
As the conversation around women’s wellness, mental health, and community empowerment continues to evolve, initiatives like this serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, mentorship, and shared purpose.
