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Laughter and music echoed through the venue as women, dressed in vibrant attire, swayed to the rhythm of Afrobeats. Children dashed across the dance floor, giggling as they joined in the celebration. The night was a declaration of strength, resilience and sisterhood.
On March 8, 2025, the South Sudanese Community Association of Ottawa hosted its first-ever South Sudanese Women’s Gala at 196 Rue Notre Dame in Gatineau. The event, held in honour of International Women’s Day, recognized the contributions of South Sudanese women in Canada and abroad.
“We Had to Do It Ourselves”
Kaidi Rial
With men in attendance as supportive guests, Kaidi Rial, president of the association, playfully addressed them in her opening remarks.
“We’ve waited,” she said. “You all have not organized a party to celebrate us, so we had to do it ourselves.”
The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, setting the tone for a night of joy, appreciation and empowerment.
The gala was MC’d by Sandra Garang, a Carleton University graduate in marketing and communications and an active community member. Her vibrant energy and ability to command the room ensured the event flowed seamlessly.
As the night unfolded, the spotlight turned to Margaret Chol Leek, president of the South Sudanese Women’s Association of Ottawa and a mother of three. Stepping onto the stage, she spoke with conviction about the resilience and sacrifices of South Sudanese women.
“South Sudanese women work hard; we support our families and the entire community,” she said.
Acknowledging the struggles faced by women in South Sudan, Leek emphasized the importance of uplifting one another despite the ongoing conflicts.
“Women back home are in crisis, but that does not mean we forget to celebrate ourselves. We are amazing women and we must continue moving forward,” she said.
With South Sudan on the brink of renewed conflict, the South Sudanese community in Ottawa sees events like this as crucial to maintaining unity and resilience.
South Sudanese tradition holds that an elder speaks at major gatherings. On this night, attendees had the honour of hearing from Dr. Achol Ayom, Deputy Chairperson of the South Sudan HIV/AIDS Commission. Based in South Sudan, she had initially traveled for another engagement, but its cancellation gave her the opportunity to attend the gala.
“I am so glad I pivoted and made it here,” she said. “This room embodies the sense of community that belongs to our people.”
She spoke of the growing tensions in South Sudan and the need for women to step into leadership roles.
“It is our time; it is your time. It’s time for you as women to take the lead because women get things done. Women can make the change,” said Ayom.
Looking around the room, she added, “It feels as though all 64 tribes of South Sudan are represented here.”
The event featured a buffet of South Sudanese cuisine, prepared by various women in the community and blessed by Pastor Yamane Abraha before the feast began.
As guests mingled and enjoyed their meals, DJ Clement Olomoi kept the energy high, blending South Sudanese tunes and Afrobeats that had attendees dancing late into the night.
One of the most moving moments of the night was the certificate presentation, led by Rial, Leek and Garang. Each woman’s name was called, recognizing her contributions to the community. As they walked to the stage to accept their certificates, the room filled with applause.
As the night drew to a close the DJ played Celebrate by Emmanuel Kembe, a song deeply tied to South Sudan’s independence. Women embraced, dancing together in recognition of their strength, unity and shared journey.
Julia Laku, a proud mother, wife and community member, stood in the crowd, smiling as she took in the scene.
“South Sudanese women are always connected; we provide for our families and coming together allows us to celebrate our journey and remember how far we’ve come,” she said. “This is a special day and we deserve it.”
