Girls' Voices, Girls' Vision

On Monday, March 15th, Julia, Siham and I were invited to attend the "Girls' Voices, Girls' Visions" Event at York University as guest speakers. It truly was an afternoon of celebration with the bright cheers and inspirational words of many significant and "smarticle" female activists and leaders. Cheryl, a Women Studies professor, invited both Julia and I to join the Girls Panel and Siham was invited to join the panel for amazing women who were making a difference through various campaigns/organizations. At first I thought this would be extremely scary because of the intimidating and cool women and girls however I felt at ease and comfortable around them. It really was a turning point to me to witness how much I have changed since I joined the Girl's Speakers Bureau. People I would look upon as role models spoke to me as if I was just as experienced and wise as they were.

The day started with Cheryl, who welcomed us to the event and introduced the various individuals who were there with us. It was about 50 of us in one room. Cheryl started with a wonderful presentation called "Why Girls You Ask" which answered many questions I had for myself. She spoke of "Which Girls?", "Who's left out of the picture" and "How Girls Move Forward?". After that we had a woman who flew in from Montreal named Tatiana Fraser, come forward to speak of Canadian girls and young women. She emphasized the influences of media and I have to say Julia and I were nodding to her whole speech to show how involved we were and how much we agreed with her. We also had the opportunity to formerly introduce ourselves which was when I realized that each and every person in the room came in experienced. Then I listened to Saron Ghebressellassie, also known as YWCA Toronto Young Woman of Distinction 2007, speak of her complex life. This was the speech I was most involved in and it wasn't just me. Julia (resting on my shoulder) kept whispering "wow" as I noticed the tears in the audience and Siham's neck wobble back and fourth. This woman really is remarkable!

After the three speeches it was time for refreshments! I tried to gobble down all my fruits and a tiny sandwich before Julia stole all of it! Then it was our time to shine. Julia and I stood up strong and confident, we slowly went to our speech spot and recited what we had written! At first I started off nervous but got much more comfortable as I went on. Julia on the other hand was a natural, beginning to end! After us a few more girls voiced their lives and visions. I had the opportunity to hear many insights as well as an amazing poem. And after the Girls Panel it was time for the Women. There were people from York Region, YWCA Girls Centre, Plan Canada, Gashanti and Worc it as well as the Toronto Star! These women are all true naturals. "They have it in their bones, like its within them!" Julia said while they presented. Both panel's were amazing and inspiring. I knew then and there that this was the best event I had been to because I had learnt so much.

Just when I thought this couldn't get better we were served cake!!!! All I can say is "DELICOUS", Julia and I shared the cake and that day I also found out how much Julia loved icing- NOT! We had the opportunity to have many conversations and reflections upon the event then. We met new people, and made friends. Siham was the professional chick rocking her awesome coat, while Julia and I pigged out on our cake while casually speaking to everyone there! I almost didn't want to leave in the end. I hadn't only made new friendships with the people I met at York but also had the priviledge to get to know both Siham and Julia. I feel honoured to say that on Monday, March 15 I, Maneesa, went to York University to join the Girls Panel. Thank you Plan Canada, Siham and of course my genius partner- Julia! i had a great time!