Mzwandile Poncana, Mississauga.com Journalist Profile

Articles

New podcast amplifies survivor voices on gender-based violence in Peel

1 week ago | thespec.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Embrave Agency to End Violence has launched “Brave Voices,” a 15-episode podcast series focused on gender-based violence (GBV) in Peel Region. The podcast, funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Seed Grant, offers a platform for survivors to share their stories and provides essential information about the resources available to those affected by GBV. By amplifying voices often silenced by stigma, “Brave Voices” aims to educate listeners and encourage those in need to seek help.
New podcast amplifies survivor voices on gender-based violence in Peel

1 week ago | bramptonguardian.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Embrave Agency to End Violence has launched “Brave Voices,” a 15-episode podcast series focused on gender-based violence (GBV) in Peel Region. The podcast, funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Seed Grant, offers a platform for survivors to share their stories and provides essential information about the resources available to those affected by GBV. By amplifying voices often silenced by stigma, “Brave Voices” aims to educate listeners and encourage those in need to seek help.
‘Still a struggle’: Peel region’s trans community faces deep health care gaps

2 weeks ago | mississauga.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Despite the size and vibrancy of Peel Region’s queer and trans community, accessing safe, affirming health care remains a struggle. Services that specifically support trans and non-binary people are scarce, and many residents are forced to travel outside the region for basic care, according to service providers. Michael Segbor, a health co-ordinator at Moyo Health and Community Services, describes the reality starkly.
‘I never thought I’d have to fight like this’: Peel’s international students say immigration system is broken as election looms

3 weeks ago | bramptonguardian.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Mehakdeep Singh says he can’t imagine going back to India. Since arriving in Canada at age 19, the now 26-year-old has spent his most formative years studying, working and laying the groundwork for a life here. But today, he’s living on a visitor visa, with no work rights and no income. “I can’t even imagine having to go back without anything,” he said. “I call this country home.” Singh, a former international student, says he has been caught in a shifting maze of immigration rules.
Peel council warns Brampton waste incinerator expansion could harm health of nearby residents

3 weeks ago | thespec.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Peel’s public health officials are warning expansion of a Brampton incinerator could increase pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed fivefold expansion of the privately-owned waste incinerator could worsen air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in already overburdened neighbourhoods, deepening existing health disparities and exposing vulnerable residents to toxic chemicals, health officials said.
Peel council warns Brampton waste incinerator expansion could harm health of nearby residents

3 weeks ago | bramptonguardian.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Peel’s public health officials are warning expansion of a Brampton incinerator could increase pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed fivefold expansion of the privately-owned waste incinerator could worsen air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in already overburdened neighbourhoods, deepening existing health disparities and exposing vulnerable residents to toxic chemicals, health officials said.
Charity helping people escape family violence sees demand triple in Peel

1 month ago | pentictonherald.ca | Mzwandile Poncana

Shelter Movers, a volunteer-powered charity that helps survivors of abuse relocate, says demand for its services in Peel has tripled since it first began operating in the region. But with fewer Peel-based volunteers than it would like, the organization is working to expand its local reach — warning that gaps in community support can make it more difficult to fully satisfy requests from survivors.
Charity helping people escape family violence sees demand triple in Peel

1 month ago | thespec.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Shelter Movers, a volunteer-powered charity that helps survivors of abuse relocate, says demand for its services in Peel has tripled since it first began operating in the region. But with fewer Peel-based volunteers than it would like, the organization is working to expand its local reach — warning that gaps in community support can make it more difficult to fully satisfy requests from survivors.
Charity helping people escape family violence sees demand triple in Peel

1 month ago | bramptonguardian.com | Mzwandile Poncana

Shelter Movers, a volunteer-powered charity that helps survivors of abuse relocate, says demand for its services in Peel has tripled since it first began operating in the region. But with fewer Peel-based volunteers than it would like, the organization is working to expand its local reach — warning that gaps in community support can make it more difficult to fully satisfy requests from survivors.
‘Pilot solutions’: Growing Healthy Places initiative supports Mississauga kids

1 month ago | thespec.com | Mzwandile Poncana

A new initiative in Mississauga aims to improve access to healthy food and physical activity for children in underserved communities. The Growing Healthy Places initiative is a partnership between Ophea, 8 80 Cities, Brock University and Novo Nordisk Canada. It will bring together entities such as school communities, municipal governments, academic institutions and non-profit organizations to support the city of Mississauga in codesigning and tailoring solutions that meet community needs.