NEWS RELEASE
ARAB WOMEN'S SOCIETY
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There was a festive celebration for Arabic women at Guelph's Royal Cuisine Restaurant on November 6. The president of the Arab Women's Society (AWS), Dr. Sundes Alammi, and Dr. Nahla Abdelbary organized the event. There were almost 80 local women, who originated from many Arabic countries and other nations, in attendance. Many were Newcomers to Canada in the last 5 years or less. The women shared a delicious dinner, danced to a DJ and drummer, and had lots of time to chat, laugh and got acquainted.
Local entrepreneurs spoke about their businesses and presented their products and services. It is a goal of the society to promote female lead small businesses. At the end of the party there were raffles for gifts. During the event non-perishable food items were collected for donation to the Salvation Army. It was a warm, joyful and cooperative evening.
The women's gatherings were held monthly before the pandemic in the 3 years of the AWS' existence. There have been picnics, community room parties and potlucks. Young women and children are always welcomed. The women support each other in adapting and integrating into Canadian Society.
The AWS gives a helping had to all Refugees and Newcomers who request support. The AWS helps with translation and facilitates all sorts of procedures from making appointments to explaining cultural norms. All of the work Dr. Alammi and Dr. Abdelbary have done has been voluntary.
Before the society was created Dr Alammi had spent countless hours since 2009 supporting refugees and helping Newcomers settle and adjust to their new lives in Guelph. Creating the society gives Dr Alammi and Dr. Abdelbary the chance to gather women together to celebrate and support each other. Leaving your homeland can be devastating. Starting a new life in a new country is very challenging and Dr. Alammi and Dr. Abdelbary are here to help.
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