HBG Fest: HerLegacy
Join us for an inspiring evening featuring remarkable educators - Ottillia Giralico, Tehilah Abakasanga, Maureen Kitheka and Deneka Dosant — who will share their personal journeys to career success. This event marks the culmination of our Project Up series, funded by the Laidlaw Foundation, aimed at enhancing the entry, retention, and success of Black women and Black gender-diverse communities in the educational system.
Throughout the evening, our speakers will discuss their unique paths, the challenges they faced, and the strategies they employed to thrive in their careers. This powerful conversation will highlight culturally relevant and evidence-informed practices designed to reduce barriers for Black women and equip them for educational and professional advancement.
About Our Speakers:
Ottillia Giralico is a fitness enthusiast, fitness coach, and owner of the Female-Only fitness facility, Club Enhergy. She attained her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto for Sociology & Psychology, and her post-graduate degree in Human Resources at George Brown College. After experiencing both parents suffer from severe illnesses, Ottillia was compelled to take control of her own health at a very young age. She became passionate about being consistent in the gym, and eating clean. After the loss of her mother in 2018, she decided to leave the corporate world to purse her passion for fitness.
Tehilah Abakasanga is the visionary Founder and Creative Director behind OFUURE. Hailing from Nigeria, Tehilah embarked on a transformative journey in 2015, driven by a powerful mission: to illuminate the richness of African culture and empower women of all shapes and sizes through the medium of vibrant and elegant clothing. Under her astute leadership, OFUURE's distinctive designs have earned widespread acclaim, transcending borders and resonating within the African diaspora and beyond. Worn by prominent celebrities such as Tia Mowry, Kelly Rowland, Nicole Ari Parker, Issa Rae, Yvonne Orji, Gabby Sidibe, Danielle Brooks, and Tracey Moore, Tehilah has become a beacon of inspiration for black entrepreneurs and creators.
Maureen Kitheka is a vivacious Kenyan-Canadian, currently working at Unilever Canada as Senior Marketing Manager leading all commercial efforts for the SheaMoisture brand. Driven by a strong love for consumers, curiosity to understand / influence their behaviour and a strong business acumen, she has spent the last 13+ years engaged progressively through different marketing roles in the consumer goods industry.
Deneka Dosant is a social and digital marketing expert with nearly a decade of experience across brand, agency, and talent management. She has led teams for top global companies, driving strategies that connect brands with consumers. As Director at Kensington Grey, and previously at Shine Talent Group and Viral Nation, she closed over 500 deals, launched departments, and secured multi-million dollar licensing deals. Deneka also manages top talent and content creators, helping them build their brands. Her leadership and expertise in digital marketing have made her a trusted figure in the industry.
Event Highlights:
Panel Discussion: Hear firsthand accounts from our esteemed educators as they share their experiences and insights.
Q&A Session: Engage directly with the speakers and gain valuable advice for your own journey.
Resume Reviews: Attendees can receive brief resume reviews to enhance their job applications.
Professional Headshots: Capture your best self with a complimentary professional headshot taken by a photographer.
Support Local Vendors: Explore and support Black, women-owned businesses showcasing their products and services.
Community-Building Opportunities: Connect with fellow attendees and expand your professional and personal network.
This event is not just a celebration; it’s a platform for professional development and community-building.
Date & Time: October 19th at 12:45PM
Location: It's OK* Studios (468 Queen St W)
We cannot wait to see you ALL there!
Please note that by registering for this event, you will be added to our mailing list. The event will be photographed, and by attending, you acknowledge that you may be included in these images, which may be used in our promotional materials.