Moving the Needle on Asian Women’s Equality & Inclusion in Winnipeg

It all started back in 2013 with Sharan Tappia’s vision of helping the most vulnerable women while simultaneously celebrating womanhood and women’s accomplishments, and mentoring youth. Her goal was to do so in a way that was unique from the organizations already established in the community.

Tappia gathered with a few friends and shared her aspirations, and together, the group of women planned, organized, and executed a new way to celebrate Asian mothers and womanhood on Mother’s Day. The “Mother’s Day” event took place in May of 2013 at Maples Collegiate and included entertaining activities such as music, dance, and theatrical performances, as well as women’s crafts and a fashion show. It was an opportunity for networking and sharing cultural experiences with new generations.

The original members of the group, along with Rita Chahal as a Mentor, named the organization and decided on the mission and vision. On April 3rd, 2014 they registered the name “Asian Women of Winnipeg” with the Companies Office. In September of 2016, Asian Women of Winnipeg (AWOW) became officially incorporated and Pamela Rebello, O.M. was invited to serve the organization as an advisor.

Over the last few years, the organization’s events have grown and evolved; from Mother’s Day celebrations to International Women’s Day galas, Lohri Festival to Desi-Fest, and fundraising dinners for other organizations in the community like Siloam Mission and Willow Place. You can always count on Asian Women of Winnipeg to be active in the community, giving back and empowering women.

“I am very proud of the evolution and growth of our organization,” states Sharan Tappia, President of Asian Women of Winnipeg Inc. “As we move forward, I hope that AWOW will continue to broaden its horizons for women empowerment, belief, and recognition of womanhood and our contributions to the welfare of community and society.”

The pandemic has not slowed AWOW down! They hosted more than twenty virtual events throughout COVID-19. The organization also co-hosted a dinner for Asian recipients of the “Honour MB150 & MB150 Trailblazers” with the Asian Heritage Society and India School of Dance, another Folklorama member.

AWOW became a Folklorama member in 2020 to extend their outreach initiatives, network, and connect their youth with other ethnocultural communities and opportunities.

Celebrate with Asian Women of Winnipeg for International Women’s Day, on March 13th, 2022! Buy your tickets to support AWOW’s signature event with lunch to honour outstanding women of Asian origin for distinguished service! Entertainment and dance to follow. Visit www.asianwomenofwinnipeg.com for more information.