MEMBERS GATHERING
04 APRIL, 2025
Dream Weaving: A Transformative Activity at RaricaNow as part of our Bi-Weekly Meeting which took place at the Ewaka House.
In an inspiring display of creativity and collaboration with Nenookaasi. Bringing together member to explore their aspirations and craft a shared vision and inspiration for the future. The event aimed to foster a culture of innovation and teamwork while encouraging participants to think outside the box.
Interactive Workshops and Activities
The heart of the Dream Weaving event consisted of various workshops and activities that encouraged participants to express their dreams and aspirations. Nenookaasi guided members through brainstorming session exercises. Each member was tasked with identifying their individual inner self and how these could align with others mission.
Collaboration and Networking
Throughout the day, participants had numerous opportunities to network and collaborate with other members. This cross-interaction fostered a sense of unity and belonging within the organization.
The CEO of RaricaNow (Adebayo Chris Kattiti) presented Nenookaasi with a gift as appreciation for introducing the organization to this incredible activity.
As we wrapped up the evening, the organization provided participants with food and drinks which left smiles on their faces.
In conclusion, the Dream Weaving event was a resounding success, igniting passion and creativity among members while reinforcing a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Special thanks to our funders (Foundation For Black Communities, The Enchante Network, Government of Alberta) for their support.
GRAND OPENING OF EWAKA HOUSING INITIATIVE
MARCH 31, 2025 - EDMONTON, AB
Celebrating a New Beginning:
Grand Opening of the Ewaka Housing Initiative
March 31, 2025 marked a historic milestone as we gathered for the grand opening of the Ewaka Housing Initiative. A transitional and affordable home for 2SLGBTQ+ Refugees and Newcomers in Canada! This event was not just a celebration of a house; it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of hope, resilience, and community.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as community members, funders, allies, and advocates came together to support this vital initiative.
Keynote speeches by influential leaders emphasized the urgent need for safe housing for 2SLGBTQI+ refugees. Their words resonated deeply, reminding us that everyone deserves a place to call home—free from fear and discrimination. The highlight of the day was the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony by Nneka Otogbolu (COO, Foundation For Black Communities), marking the official opening of our new housing facility.
Guests also had the opportunity to tour the housing units and explore various communal spaces that foster connection and belonging. As the day came to a close, we reflected on our journey and celebrated the collective efforts that made this project possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for 2SLGBTQI+ refugees and Newcomers in Canada—a future where every individual can thrive with dignity and pride.
Special thanks to our funders (Foundation For Black Communities, The Enchante Network, Government of Alberta) who made this possible. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and believed in this project. Your commitment to inclusivity and compassion is what makes our community strong. Here’s to new beginnings, lasting friendships, and a home where love knows no bounds! #2SLGBTQI #RefugeeHousing #CommunitySupport #NewBeginnings #InclusionMatters
MEMBERS GATHERING
MAR 09, 2025
Sip and Paint Gathering: A Night of Creativity and Connection
Last Sunday evening, RaricaNow hosted a vibrant Sip and Paint gathering that brought together members for an unforgettable night of creativity, camaraderie, and fun. The event was held at Ewaka House, adorned with colorful decorations and inspiring artwork, setting the perfect ambiance for artistic expression. As participants arrived, they were greeted with a warm welcome and a selection of beverages to choose from. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as members mingled, sharing stories and laughter while sipping on their favorite drinks. Once everyone settled in, our Administration Assistant Chika took the stage to guide us through the evening's painting project. With brushes in hand and palettes ready, participants were encouraged to unleash their creativity.
Throughout the evening, the room was filled with laughter and chatter as members painted side by side, sharing tips, and encouraging one another. Some participants embraced the process wholeheartedly, while others found themselves pleasantly surprised by their hidden artistic talents. The combination of paint and sips created a relaxed environment that allowed everyone to unwind and enjoy the moment.
As we wrapped up the evening, the organization provided participants with food and bus tickets which left smiles on their faces.
The Sip and Paint gathering was a resounding success, leaving everyone feeling inspired and connected.
Thank you to everyone who participated and made this gathering a memorable one!
MEMBERS GETHERING -
23 FEB 2025
The members' gathering was an inspiring experience filled with energy, enthusiasm, and connection! As attendees arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, with familiar faces greeting one another and new friendships being forged. The house was beautifully decorated, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable day.
The event was full with inspiring keynote speeches that ignited passion and motivation among the crowd. Following that, interactive Vision Board workshops allowed members to dive deep into their future, sharing stories and learning from each other’s experiences.
Delicious food and refreshments kept everyone fueled and engaged, while lively discussions sparked around every table.
As the day wrapped up, a sense of accomplishment and excitement lingered in the air. Members left feeling inspired, empowered, and eager to implement what they had learned. The gathering not only strengthened existing bonds but also created new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Below are pictures of the gathering.
Queen Kash Bae’s Memorial - 15th Feb 2025
Kash Bae (WANJIRU FAHAD) - 24th Sept 1996 - 15th Feb 2022
Kash Bae was born on 24th September 1996 in Pumwani Hospital in Nairobi. She grew up in Kaloleni Estate, Makadara in Nairobi City Kenya.
She went to primary school at St. Teresa’s Boys Eastleigh Nairobi (2002 - 2011) and secondary/High school at Miu Boy’s Machakos County (2012 - 2025)
She traveled for work January 2016 to Dubai (UAE). From there she went to USA in 2016 and migrated to Canada January 2017.
She was a hardworking lady, loved cooking and she got along with everyone just fine. She love peace.
She’s was very passionate about community and making the world a better place for all people, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Kash shared her story as a Black Transgender Queen and never hesitate when the community called for her leadership.
Kash ws the Executive Director of RaricaNow for 9 months before her death, and our community is in mourning.
She was also the owner of Kash Kloset.
TRANS DAY OF REMEMBERANCE -
TDOR 2024 (20 NOV 2025)
Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed annually on November 20th, is a solemn day to honor the lives of transgender and gender non-conforming people lost to violence, while simultaneously raising awareness about the pervasive issues of anti-trans discrimination and the need for greater societal acceptance and protection for the trans community.
With the Theme of Remembering and Honoring all Trans lives lost in violence and discrimination, we remembered our very own Queen Kash Bae and Dr. Michael Marshall with a Loving Tribute videos. A Tribute video was also made to honor other Trans individuals who brutally and cruelly lost their lives all across the world.
That day was an important day for RaricaNow as an organization as the Founder, Speakers, Invited Guests, and all the members came together solemnly to honor our Trans brothers and sisters who lost their lives just for being themselves.
CHRISTMAS DINNER AND MEMBERS APPRECIATION - DEC 22, 2004.
This year’s Christmas Dinner and Members Appreciation Awards Night was an unforgettable evening of joy, reflection, and celebration. Held at Ewaka House, the event brought together the organization for an evening of joy, gratitude, and recognition. As we wrapped up an incredible year of accomplishments, we took the time to honor the outstanding efforts and dedication of our team members, making this night truly special.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious, carefully curated dinner, featuring a variety of festive dishes that showcased both traditional favorites and exciting new flavors. The evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a sense of togetherness as colleagues gathered to celebrate the season and each other’s company.
A Toast to the Future
As the night drew to a close, the CEO/Leader (Adebayo Chris Katiiti) shared a few words of gratitude, thanking the team and members for their incredible contributions over the past year.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to every member of our team. Your contributions, commitment, and passion make all the difference, and we can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in the coming year.
Happy holidays to all, and here’s to an amazing year ahead! 🎄✨
#HolidayCelebration #MembersAppreciation #EmployeeRecognition #ChristmasDinner #Teamwork #Gratitude #AwardNight #CelebratingSuccess
Annual General Meeting - 14th Sept 2024
On September 14, 2024, we held a successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) at St. Paul’s Church, where we welcomed a full house of attendees. This event provided an opportunity to discuss our achievements and activities from the past year, as well as to approve our operational budget, meeting minutes and membership expansion plans.
Elder Roxanne Sunwalker began our meeting with a blessing, emphasizing the significance of community engagement, the importance of voicing our concerns, and the power of collaboration. Attendees enjoyed a selection of food and soft drinks, bustickets where provided to make it accesible and childcare support while members shared their personal experiences and the positive impact RaricaNow has had on their lives.
A recurring theme throughout the meeting was the creation of a safe and welcoming environment within our community. Participants exchanged valuable insights regarding housing, while the board provided updates on the Ewaka housing project and funding opportunities from the Foundation for Black Communities, the Ethnocultural Grant from the Government of Alberta, and the Echante Network.
We deeply appreciate the support of St. Paul’s United Church for hosting our AGM, as well as the City of Edmonton for their ongoing assistance with our initiatives. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our community for their generous donations and unwavering support.
2SLGBTQ+ REFUGEE NEWCOMERS
SOLIDARITY MARCH
We marched in Downtown Edmonton from the Beaver Hill Park to the Legislative Grounds to advocate for equitable housing, healthcare service, settlement supports, jobs, and for the eradication of discrimination against queer individuals and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
