The landscape for Black women in Alberta is evolving, shaped by groundbreaking initiatives and inspiring success stories that highlight resilience, leadership, and community impact. From entrepreneurship to advocacy, Black women are not just part of Alberta’s progress. They are driving it.
Leadership in Action
The establishment of the Alberta Black Advisory Council marks a major step forward in addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusion. Black women are stepping into leadership roles across sectors, with organizations like BCW in Action and When African Women Talk (WAWT) leading initiatives that empower Black Canadian women and girls.
The impact of Black women’s leadership continues to grow. Shauna Bookal has been recognized among Canada’s top Black women leaders for her contributions to sport management and community development. The legacy of Violet King, Alberta’s and Canada’s first Black woman lawyer, lives on through the Violet King Engaged Scholar Award, which celebrates excellence in leadership and community engagement.
Women like Margaret Adu, founder of AOmega Lodges, are creating spaces that prioritize independence and dignity for seniors. Virnetta Anderson, who became the first Black woman elected to Calgary’s City Council in 1974, remains an enduring example of leadership. Her work in the 1950s helped shape Alberta’s social landscape, from co-founding Meals on Wheels to strengthening community support networks.
Breaking Ground in Childcare and Economic Empowerment
Alberta’s childcare system is undergoing a transformative shift that will reshape economic opportunities for families. Beginning April 1, 2025, the province’s $15-per-day childcare program is set to ease financial strain, with government estimates showing families could save an average of $11,000 per year per child.
For Black women entrepreneurs and professionals, this reform presents both opportunities and challenges. While the initiative expands access to affordable childcare, advocates continue pushing for adjustments to ensure it benefits low-income families equitably.
With Alberta committing to 68,700 new childcare spaces by April 2026, more Black women entrepreneurs are exploring the childcare sector. Established Black-owned daycares are adapting to the new funding model, helping to close longstanding gaps in access to affordable, high-quality care.
Building Stronger Communities
Grassroots organizations continue to be the backbone of community support. Hands Lifting Hearts, a Calgary-based initiative, provides essential services for African women newcomers, ensuring they have the tools to thrive. These efforts go beyond immediate relief, creating long-term networks of empowerment and stability.
Education and Professional Development
Institutions across Alberta are expanding opportunities for Black women in high-growth fields. NorQuest College has launched targeted programs to support Black women in STEM, while the University of Alberta’s Black-led Research Network Initiative is strengthening Black research excellence. SAIT’s Black Empowerment and Excellence programis creating mentorship opportunities and career development pathways specifically designed for Black students and professionals.
The results are already visible. The Women in STEM Scholarship program is helping future leaders access careers in science and technology. Organizations like WISE Edmonton are actively working to support the retention and advancement of women and underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
Looking Ahead
As Alberta moves through 2025, momentum is shifting from conversation to action. Companies and institutions are recognizing the need for diverse leadership and implementing meaningful equity and inclusion strategies. Success stories are multiplying, and with every step forward, Black women are making space for future generations to dream bigger and achieve more.
My journey with Rachel Solutions has strengthened my commitment to amplifying our voices and building platforms for visibility. While we celebrate progress, there is still work ahead. Every breakthrough paves the way for the next, and I am inspired by the knowledge that the impact we create today will shape the future of Black women in Alberta.
Our stories matter. Our contributions matter. Together, we are building a more inclusive Alberta where Black women can see themselves in leadership, innovation, and every space where change is made.
