Esther Ijewere

4 weeks ago | womenofrubies.com | Esther Ijewere

Crowned Miss World Somalia 2025, Zainab Jama is using her platform not for glamour, but for global advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM),a deeply rooted cultural practice that continues to harm millions of girls across Africa. Her story is not just one of survival; it is a powerful example of turning personal trauma into transformative leadership. Zainab Jama’s FGM advocacy is now one of the most influential efforts emerging from East Africa.

1 month ago | womenofrubies.com | Esther Ijewere

Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a Nigerian-Canadian physician, spoken word artist, and public speaker whose groundbreaking achievements and advocacy work are transforming the Canadian medical landscape. As the first Black woman valedictorian in the history of the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Oriuwa has consistently used her platform to address systemic racism, champion diversity, and inspire future generations of Black professionals.

1 month ago | womenofrubies.com | Esther Ijewere

Rechie Valdez has made history once again. On May 13, 2025, she was sworn in as the new Minister of Women and Gender Equality in Canada, a landmark move under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s newly formed cabinet. Valdez also takes on the role of Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism. This appointment marks a powerful return of Women and Gender Equality (WAGE) as a standalone ministry highlighting the federal government’s renewed focus on gender equity and inclusivity. Who Is Rechie Valdez?

1 month ago | womenofrubies.com | Esther Ijewere

Manjit Minhas, a celebrated Canadian entrepreneur, is the co-founder of Minhas Breweries, Distillery and Winery, one of the largest and most successful alcohol production companies in North America. Born in Calgary, Alberta, and of Indian descent, Manjit launched her business career at just 19 years old. Today, she is not only a business powerhouse but also a prominent investor on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, where she empowers startups and women entrepreneurs to scale boldly.

1 month ago | womenofrubies.com | Esther Ijewere

Anna Lambe is a Canadian Inuk actress and passionate advocate for Indigenous voices. From her roots in the Arctic to national and international screens, she has carved a path defined by talent, purpose, and cultural pride. She first captured attention with her breakout performance in The Grizzlies, earning critical acclaim and a Canadian Screen Award nomination. Most recently, Anna takes center stage as Siaja in the CBC/APTN/Netflix original comedy series North of North.