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 equitable 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.

The significance of this award lies in acknowledging individuals who champion diversity, equality, and inclusion in our society.

By recognising Prime Minister Trudeau as one of the heroes of our time, we aimed to convey a message of appreciation for his efforts in advocating for marginalised communities and promoting social justice. This award symbolises our gratitude for his commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable Canada for all.

Moreover, presenting this award serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership in driving positive change and fostering unity amidst diversity. We hope that by highlighting Prime Minister Trudeau’s contributions, we inspire others to emulate his example and work towards a more just and compassionate society.

Reflecting on the WODI journey, major challenges faced and how they were tackled
Navigating as a Black woman in Canada’s diverse landscape, securing funding and expanding capacity has been a significant hurdle for WODI. Our urgent need for warehouse space to accommodate growing food bank services and training programmes remains a priority. Currently self-funded, we’re actively seeking partnerships and government support to realise our expansion plans and further empower our community.

Factors that contribute to empowering women and youth
In today’s society, I believe several factors play pivotal roles in empowering women and youth. Firstly, comprehensive training programmes are essential. They provide the necessary skills and knowledge for women and youth to pursue their ambitions effectively.

Moreover, facilitating opportunities for entrepreneurship is crucial. By offering support and resources, we enable women and youth to start and grow their businesses, contributing to economic development and sustainability.

Visibility is also significant. Highlighting the achievements of women and youth across various sectors not only inspires others but also challenges stereotypes, fostering inclusivity and recognition.

Advice for young women leaders
My advice to young women with leadership aspirations is to take the first step toward realising their goals. Start by identifying your passions and interests, and then articulate your vision by writing it down. Plan meticulously, strategise effectively and take deliberate action to bring your ideas to fruition.

Remember, progress is incremental. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or challenges along the way. Instead, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay committed to your journey, and you will gradually see the impact of your efforts.
Keep moving forward, one step at a time, and you will soon find yourself ascending to greater heights of leadership and influence in your community. Trust in your abilities, stay resilient and never underestimate the power of your voice and actions to effect positive change.

Envisioning WODI’s global impact
With a five-year plan underway, WODI aims to empower 10,000 women and youth globally. Through strategic partnerships and innovation, we are driving sustainable change and shaping a brighter future for all.

Passion and legacy
My passion is deeply rooted in the vision of a world where women and youth are liberated from the shackles of depression, belittlement and demoralisation. I am driven by the urgent need to combat domestic violence and create a society where every individual is empowered to thrive. Through my work with WODI, I strive to leave behind a legacy of transformation and empowerment. I envision a future where the story of women’s triumphs over adversity, achieved through the holistic approach of WODI, serves as an inspiration to generations to come.

My goal is to establish a legacy where the impact of our initiatives reverberates through communities, empowering individuals to reclaim their dignity, realise their potential, and forge paths to success. I am committed to leaving behind a world where women and youth are not merely survivors but thriving leaders and changemakers in their own right. At WODI we empower women to become positive leaders to effectively lead their communities.

Three women who inspire her
Based on the stories I heard from my late father, Pastor Wilfred Uhunmwangho, and the historical legacies they left behind, these are the 3 women who inspire me.

Emotan Uwaraye: As the first woman to build a crèche, Emotan’s pioneering spirit and commitment to childcare deeply resonate with me. Her dedication to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children highlights the importance of early childhood education and the empowerment of women in caregiving roles.

Queen Idia: Queen Idia’s remarkable courage and leadership during wartime exemplify the strength and resilience of women in history. Her selfless actions to support her son in battle and safeguard the kingdom demonstrate the influential role women play in shaping the course of events and defending their communities.

Wangari Maathai: Wangari Maathai’s groundbreaking achievements as the first black African woman to win a Nobel Prize for her work in environmental sustainability are truly inspiring. Her tireless advocacy for conservation and grassroots activism underscores the power of individuals to effect positive change on a global scale, leaving behind a legacy of environmental stewardship and social justice.

Thoughts on International Women’s Day theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’
The theme ‘Inspire Inclusion’ perfectly resonates with WODI’s mission of celebrating resilience and commitment to humanity. As we commemorated International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, we were inspired to champion inclusivity and diversity, fostering a more equitable world for all.