The Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment (JACYWE) is celebrating the International Day of the Girl on Monday Octobers 11th from 8:00am to 12:30pm by reuniting some of their girls at the Centre for the first time since the pandemic hit. 

After almost two years of virtual programming, the girls will participate in STEM activities including coding, social entrepreneurship and academic programs.  “We will have 20 girls and instructors at the Centre participating in our Craft for a Cause, Create Coding and Peer-Tutoring programs,” explains Emma Asiedu-Akrofi, Executive Director of the Jean Augustine Centre.  “They are very excited to see each other again, and we can’t think of a better day for them to reunite.”

Since 1995, the United Nations’ International Day of the Girl has been recognized globally, increasing awareness of issues faced by girls around the world.  This year, the UN’s theme is Digital Generation, Our Generation, after the pandemic increased the use of digital activities, learning and communications in many homes.  The theme aims to create a digital revolution in

which girls are equal players in the field of tech, as they are less likely than boys to use and own devices as well as gain access to tech-related skills and jobs.

In alignment with the UN’s theme, the Jean Augustine Centre will launch JAC’s “LegacyLeader in STEM, which will highlight girls in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math, kickstarting their overall Jean Augustine Centre Legacy Campaign fundraiser.

“During the pandemic, we recognized how important the Centre is to the mental health, socialization and academic learning of young girls,” says Asiedu-Akrofi. “Because we were virtual we were able to expand our reach beyond Etobicoke, and even held an online event with girls in Nigeria!”

The Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment was opened in June 2014 by the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, and offers programming for girls and young women from ages 7-17. Dr. Augustine saw a specific need in the community to create a space where young women and girls could thrive and be supported to reach their full potential.