“Whatever you do, work from the soul.”

It’s no surprise that Yaa Gyamfuah Nsiah, the new group programs coordinator and facilitator at NYWC, likes to help women build their resilience, knowledge and self-advocacy. After all, so many women in her life are pillars of strength and determination.

“I love that NYWC supports and creates space for women,” says Yaa, who has a master’s degree in International Development and extensive experience in advocacy, child-protection and refugee resettlement work. “So many women feel vulnerable, are unable to express themselves or struggle to get support without stigma.”

“I’ve been so inspired by the powerful women in my life.”

As a hotel owner and mother of 10 children, Yaa’s grandmother in Ghana was a force despite her health issues and living in a patriarchal society. “She was very business-minded and would easily tell you what was on her mind,” she says. Likewise, her mother worked hard in the family business while encouraging Yaa and her siblings to do and be their best. Her Aunt Margaret was also motivating: “She was a teacher who got her undergrad degree in her 50s.”

“I’m where I need to be now.”

After completing her undergrad and master’s degrees in the United States, Yaa returned to Ghana with plans to work at a women’s rights organization, but the funding fell through. Nonetheless, her work at International Justice Mission built her experience in advocacy, child-protection, and more.

“I’ve moved around a lot and done a bit of everything, from advocacy, event planning, administration, policy creation and more,” says Yaa, who is thrilled to use those skills for the Women’s Empowerment Series, Migrant Mother’s group and other helpful NYWC programs.

“No matter what I’m given, I’m always going to give it my best shot,” Yaa adds. “That mindset has really pushed me to work hard and figure things out. It’s like the scriptures say: ‘Whatever you do, work from the soul.’”

If you’d like to make a difference in women’s lives too, find out more about North York Women’s Centre and visit our Volunteering and Jobs sections.