Albertans Paying It Forward: International Women of Purpose Cultural Association
Image: Dr. Love Nwigwe and dancers
This story is one of ACGC's five-part series on Albertans 'paying it forward' in their work to make the world a more just, fair, and sustainable place for all. This story centers around the work of the International Women of Purpose Cultural Association, which is dedicated to empowering, educating, and celebrating women from diverse cultural backgrounds.
NOTE: quotes and details are taken from an interview with Dr. Love Nwigwe in July 2024, unless otherwise noted.
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When Love moved to Red Deer, she realized that there was no community she could identify with. As a Black woman, mother of four, immigrant, and advocate, she was looking for a way to connect with those of similar values and backgrounds, and when she couldn’t find any options, she decided to create one. In 2013, Love founded the International Women of Purpose Cultural Association (IWOPCA), whose mission is to empower, educate and celebrate women and their families from diverse cultural backgrounds. She started by helping her fellow Nigerian immigrants and now she assists newcomers from all over the world, particularly women newcomers. “I was looking for a platform to bring different cultures together to thrive,” says Love, “so we can empower and celebrate our diversity.”
Love has called herself “a voice for the voiceless, and “there when it comes to advocacy.” For example, Love mentioned addressing gender pay gaps in the workplaces of her clients with their managers. She also produced the short film, I Can’t Breathe, titled in the memory of George Floyd, to capture a glimpse of the racial discrimination faced by Black Canadians.
Image: Dr. Love Nwigwe at screening of short film 'I Can't Breathe' at Festival de Cannes
Disability justice is a cause deeply important to Love, who emphasizes the need for accessible workplaces, particularly for racialized women and youth with disabilities. “IWOPCA is dedicated to equipping individuals with the tools and opportunities to thrive, contribute meaningfully to society, and foster a supportive community that respects and empowers women of all backgrounds and abilities,” she states. “The organization actively supports employers in creating equal career development opportunities for individuals with disabilities and raises awareness about the critical need for workplace inclusivity."
In addition to disability justice, IWOPCA also has successful programs dedicated to welcoming and mentoring international students, providing cyber security and digital literacy training for youth and seniors, and restorative justice for those in trouble with the law. When it comes to people in trouble with the law for minor violations, the organization’s goal is to keep them out of prison, and instead advocate for community-centered justice, where the offender is able to give back to the community. What all IWOPCA’s programs have in common is that they center women’s experiences. “We are women, and we are leading each other, and we understand our pain and our needs,” Love explains when referring to IWOPCA’s ultimate vision.
But their work isn’t all serious. The landing page of IWOPCA’s website features a photo of a vibrant cultural youth group called “tasty rhythm, soothing sound.” The organization works to promote intercultural exchange, such as painting, dancing, story telling, music, and creative writing, allowing people to experience other cultures and take pride in their own. IWOPCA is often invited to perform at community events in and around Red Deer.
Image: IWOPCA youth camps
As for paying it forward, Love understands that young people will carry a community forward. Young people also need to be prepared to do so, so IWOPCA aims to provide opportunities for young people to lead, as well as instill the culture of volunteerism and giving back to the community. When not leading IWOPCA, Love is also a wellness and Christian counsellor, and coaches the youth in her community, especially youth experiencing race-based bullying. “Anxiety due to bullying is a big deal for young people and we are helping them navigate that.” Having healthy youth is vital to a community’s sustainability.
This work is not without challenges, and IWOPCA, while a mighty community, continues to search for the resources and funding that are vital for an organization’s longevity. The organization relies on donations, both monetary and in-kind, including in-person meeting space to run programs. Please click here to donate and contact Love to volunteer or donate in-kind.