Senior Sector Spotlight: Indo-Canadian Women’s Association

“Cultural Connections” - A Seniors Sector Spotlight on the Indo Canadian Women’s Association 

Written by: Breanne Harrison 

Somewhere in Edmonton, a few ladies sit in their homes, surrounded by various food products. They may be at their desk, sorting through invoices and order slips, or they may be in the kitchen with flour-covered aprons, stirring dough in a bowl. At the same time, a man sits in his home, perhaps answering emails or searching for stories to cover in his very own online news channel. 

After immigrating to Canada from their former country, each of these individuals was able to conceptualize and develop their businesses with help and connections from the Indo Canadian Women’s Association (ICWA). We are told this by Jodi Zabludowski, ICWA’s Executive Director (as of August 2024), and Vasudha Tiwari, an ICWA Project Coordinator, after we had asked: “What makes your organization unique?” 

“The organization’s history is women helping women,” Zabludowski says. Tiwari adds: “Now we celebrate everybody. A few of my clients have been able to start their own businesses. They got connected here and networked with different people to gain confidence and establish themselves.” Judging by the successes of the aforementioned individuals, it is quite clear that ICWA provides both resources and a social platform that will enhance their potential. Given the organization's history, their current desire to help individuals succeed is both unsurprising and heartwarming. 

In the early 1980’s, current board member Papiya Das and social worker Renu Ray, united with the mutual desire for services that would assist the South Asian community. More specifically, South Asian women, as many mainstream services did not give them adequate help or resources. As Das and Ray’s phones began ringing nonstop with inquiries from immigrants, they implemented a counselling service for women, providing telephone counselling, resources, and referrals from their homes. In 1983, a Community Concern Conference was organized, and it was at this conference that an organization that would assist South Asian women was deemed a necessity. Indira Aurora proposed the Indo Canadian Women’s Association, and on February 21st, 1984, ICWA was incorporated and has been helping the South Asian community ever since. Gita Das, Jagjeet Bhardwaj, Dr. Zohra Husaini, and Jayanti Negi and others built up the organization to where it is today.    

Despite their origins being centered around women, Zabludowski and Tiwari reiterate the inclusivity at their organization. “We do welcome men into our programs,” Zabludowski says. "They love coming here. They socialize, drink tea, and have snacks. It’s fun and important for them as well.” ICWA serves women, men, and youth alike in their programs, and as Zabludowski tells us, one of their priorities as of now is increasing services, resources, and programming for seniors. 

“The number of South Asian seniors is increasing in the community,” Tiwari says. “They are facing isolation due to cultural differences, language barriers, and mobility barriers.” To help reduce the potential negative impacts that these barriers may present, ICWA offers multiple activities and services. “We help them feel like they are a part of the community,” Zabludowski says. “They don’t have to be alone.” 

Among their many activities, such as yoga, games, and art classes, their literacy courses in both English and technology allow for seniors—and anyone who may need these services—to feel more confident in their ability to communicate. Many of Tiwari's clients were able to begin working, as the language barrier had been broken down. “They get more information and resources about Canadian culture,” Tiwari states. “They become independent, confident, and happy because they can celebrate different things.” 

Among many celebratory events at ICWA is Grandparents Day, wherein their facility becomes a hub for intergenerational activities and learning. As Zabludowski and Tiwari say, there may be cultural differences and gaps due to the grandparents being from one country, and the grandchildren growing up in another. “We try to give them that opportunity. They can spend time together to learn and bond.” 

Opportunities like these allow for South Asian seniors to become more independent in a culture that may be unfamiliar to them. ICWA gives these seniors the chance to socialize, in turn feeling less isolated and more in tune with their community. In fact, as Tiwari says, their activities and services have allowed for their clients to “meet their childhood” and reconnect with their culture.  

Perhaps one can connect with a new culture this International Women’s Day, for ICWA celebrates the day each year. A keynote speaker stands, discusses what it is like to move to Canada and live life here. Dancers perform intricate steps. Violinists drag their bows across strings. Poets recite words that illustrate the intricacies of life. It is a celebration of culture: of life, of connection, of community, and individuals of any culture are sure to gain a certain cultural richness. 

 

From literacy classes to games, ICWA encourages the breaking of cultural barriers, consequently enriching the physical and mental well-being of all who may need their services. Whether you are younger or older, it is never too late to establish yourself and become confident in your own community. 

To find out more information about the Indo Canadian Women’s Association, including their upcoming events, services, and programs, visit one of the following websites. 

 

Website: www.icwaedmonton.org  

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ICWAEdmonton  

 

Changing attitudes since 1984!