Jenny Okonkwo
Consulting
I addressed an acute workplace representation and diverse talent sourcing gap in the finance and accounting profession, creating visibility and community role models I co-authored the Finance Mentors Ledger and 21 Resilient Women In both 2019 and 2020 I was a keynote speaker at the AICPA Global Womens Leadership Summit Europe
Single mother of 4 amazing children. Named diabetes educator of the year through the faculty of the Medicine University of Toronto. Recognized by the Canadian Diabetes Education Certification Board for the award of excellence in diabetes education management. Community advocate and activist for continental Africans and other Canadian communities to get free access to health, health equipment and medications for all.
My greatest accomplishments have been to my family, supprting and enjoying
multiple generations and learning from their wisdom and the strength of our ancestors.
The opportunity to address racial and social justice in so many spheres including in education, institutions, government and organizations both public and private, and have been a source of great satisfaction. As an educator and researcher, contributing to the production of knowledge and being able to work with young people in supporting their intellectual, social and social justice development have been a great joy of my life.
My major accomplishments include; creating space for Black and Racialized students to feel heard and seen in higher learning, co-developing a Black mentorship program at the university of ottawa, and developing a knew consciousness to address systematic inequalities.
Developing Riddim Fitness Inc. and the Riddim Cultural Arts Program, writing and developing courses for municipal governments, school boards and not-for-profits for the betterment of Black children youth and families, and raising two Black children with my husband; children who are happy, healthy and grounded in the love of their family and community.
1. In 1978 VP for Immigrant nurses group in Quebec – re Bill 101 challenged this bill and won. Hospital had to rehire all nurses that were laid off. Was VP for C.A.P.I. (Centre for Professional Immigrants)
2. Establishing a Black Ombudson person in 1997 as part of a settlement reached
3. In 2000, won case against OHIP on behalf of Sickle patients in Southwest Ontario to be taken care of Harper Hospital, , Detroit, Michigan.
4. In 2008, won case where VIA Rail had to carry portable Defribulators on all their trains
Founded the 1st Black led transitional home in CanadaGrew my Business to 7 figures in 1 year Co Created a Tomato spice blend.
I became aware of who my God ( I am that I am) is and the birth of my sons.
My academic, professional, spiritual and personal(being a mother) accomplishments.
1. Raising two incredible human beings- two gorgeous children 2. Learning how to become my best self 3. Fulfilling my purpose while balancing the joys of life…family, friends and travel!
I received the Deeds Speak Award from York Regional Police, opened for Mrs. Obama, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and the former GG of Canada, and being the proponent in the Enslavement of Africans in Canada being named a historic significant Canadian event.
Helping others see and realize their own potential; using my voice, strategic thinking and influence to challenge organizations and drive more equitable outcomes; helping to redefine the ideas of leadership in my professional and volunteer work.
Raising three amazing childrenCurating my skincare line Organic Skin TherapiesCo-founding BC’s first Black led business organization.
My top three major accomplishments? Firstly, raising two incredible humans, my pride and joy. Secondly, forging a career path as a black woman dedicated to driving positive change. Lastly, simply cherishing being alive – navigating life’s challenges, embracing growth, and relishing every moment.
Leading TEC through the lens of service, humility and passion. Raising my daughter as a single mother while pursuing my own goas, and teaching her to do the same. Being a mentor and source of support to women from my community who needed guidance in navigating a new country
Co-author of Beyond Math, a critical thinking mental math workbook for ages 8 to 13 years and currently working on my second book title Notes to my younger self for ages 13 to 25 years. Being a black leader with a voice Initiating and implementing a knowledge platform where employees can share experiences
My top three major accomplishments? Firstly, raising two incredible humans, my pride and joy. Secondly, forging a career path as a black woman dedicated to driving positive change. Lastly, simply cherishing being alive – navigating life’s challenges, embracing growth, and relishing every moment.
Being honoured as one of the top 100 ABC women in 2024, I emerged as a winner in the BBPA Rise-Up Pitch 2023; I was named one of the top 100 Black Women to Watch 2023 in addition to other special recognition in 2023.
My greatest accomplishments include mothering three sons. I am also a published author of “Success is a Journey, the Entrepreneur’s Handbook.” Additionally, I achieved recognition as one of the Top 15 Coaches in Mississauga for both 2022 and 2023. In 2014, I was honored with the Microskills Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
I founded the African Canadian Weddings; I authored the book, Motherhood, a Sacred Ministry; Certified Human Resources Professional & Payroll Compliance Practitioner
1. Advancement of Black Women Entrepreneurs: As the founder of BWBN, she created pivotal platforms like the Metro Vancouver Black Women Business Expo,
2. Advocacy in Tech Diversity: Spearheading the Black Women in Tech Project and promoting diversity in the banking and finance sectors
3. Leadership Development
From I was a child I wanted to put books and people together. That resulted in the career I chose. I believe that literacy and being informed is key to making wise decisions for life. uthor of My Bert Has Alzheimer’s: Caregiving is living for Two. I found the strength to lay bare the anguish and the moments of joy of caring for a loved one living with dementia. Sharing is caring and I hope the book can help others on a similar journey.
As President of the Ontario Library Association I was able to work with a creative dedicated team which saw the birth under my watch of the Forest of Reading programmes which has spread all across Canada.
As a lifelong advocate for social justice I am still reaching. That keeps me working and aware. Doing my part to level the playing field, to call out injustice, and to be a voice for those who are voiceless are worthwhile goals.