Sept 1, 2023

By Nicki Straza, Engagement Lead

One of Woodview’s priorities is to know, understand, and care for our clients in an effective, meaningful, and culturally sensitive way.

Theresa Vidal (EDI Coordinator) and Nicki Straza (Engagement Lead) have teamed up to find better strategies to do just this! This past summer Woodview was proud to be an official sponsor of the 2023 International Villages Festival in Brantford.

This festival celebrates some of the many incredible cultures present within the Brant County Area with traditional foods, dances, songs, and cultural education from many different regions of the world. As representatives we had the opportunity to attend several of these celebrations including the Italian, Muslim, Indian, and Filipino Villages.

We had the pleasure of making great connections with the Village Ambassadors and Mayors as well as some of the volunteers serving at the different events.

We learned that we need to share more about who Woodview is and the supports we offer.  We heard stories of stigma, obstacles and language barriers to accessing services in the mental health system.

We also learned there are incredible advocates in each of these communities that are ready and willing to bring their voice and insight to Woodview, including our partnership with the Brantford Brant Norfolk Ontario Health Team.

The International Villages Festival was a profound reminder that listening matters. It is so easy to make assumptions about how things should be done based on old ideas and models.

Woodview is committed to being a leader in equity, diversity, inclusion, and engagement in our community. This means the opportunity for change begins with us, and we are excited to take next steps with these incredible new friends we have made. Together we can make a difference!