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Women's Wellness Day promotes self-confidence and personal growth in a safe environment

'Being around women I think is something very powerful in itself, and being able to talk and be emotional and make connections is important'-Tasheena Sarazin

Tasheena Sarazin's mother brought her to the first Women's Wellness Day at the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre 16 years ago, when she was just a little girl. Sarazin has returned every year since, and now shares her passion for storytelling and cultural awareness, through her teachings.   

"Being around women I think is something very powerful in itself, and being able to talk and be emotional and make connections is important, said Sarazin.

 "It's such an accepting environment. It's a safe space for women, and I think when women feel safe together, that promotes a lot of self-confidence."  

Sarazin brought her friend Sara-Vi Leroux to this year's event. A first-time participant, Leroux said she left feeling inspired by the women who shared their personal journey in such a supportive environment.  

"It's not something that I normally get out and do.  It's almost overwhelming how powerful and strong all of these women seem to be," said Leroux.

The idea for the first Women's Wellness Day was the result of discussions among the staff, who realized the women they served were aware of the programs offered at the Centre, things like family support, prenatal nutrition, healing, and wellness. However, they didn't know what was available to them out in the community. Executive Director Kathy Fortin was there when it all began.   

"So we came up with the idea to get the organizations to set up booths here, giving the women some awareness about the different agencies available."  

What started as 10 community groups has nearly tripled in size. Among the various organizations were Victim Services of Nipissing District and the Ojibway Women's Lodge.  

This year's theme is 'Walking in Balance.'   

As a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Child Nutrition Community Support Worker, Melanie Chevrier works with women at the Centre.  She says it's important to give women the boost they need to feel confident about themselves as they try to balance their lives. 

"This event is a day for women to pamper themselves, to boost their spirits a bit with a lot of our teachings and give them a lot of information about the culture, to bring back that information about our history, our culture so they know who they are," said Chevrier.

The day featured traditional dancing by women who explained their style of dance and its meaning. Women were also given the opportunity to get their hair and make-up done professionally as a way to boost their self-image. Bruno Henry, an Ojibwe Fashion designer from Wikwemikong, showcased some of his designs, which he made available for the women to try on and have their picture taken. 

Annette Manuel, who works with women at the Friendship Centre stressed that "It's about self-care. It's about self-love. It's about having women appreciate the beauty of who they are and what they represent, and their role in the community, and their role in their family."