Marium Tolson-MurttyMarium Tolson-Murtty, UWindsor director for anti-racism organizational change, received the Influencer Award from Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor.

Gala honours inspirational women

Several members of the UWindsor community were among the honourees at a March 8 gala celebrating International Women’s Day hosted by Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor.

The organization, which provides employment and educational support to newcomers, immigrants, and racialized women in Windsor-Essex, conferred “Journey Towards Success” awards on alumnae Fatima Al Hakim (BS 2021), Maryan Amalow (BA 2005, MA 2008), Susan Taylor (BHK 1994) and Marium Tolson-Murtty (BA 1996, B.Ed 2003, M.Ed 2008).

Al Hakim received the Youth Community Leadership Award in recognition of her achievements during her studies, both in and outside the classroom. An award-winning student, she co-founded the Pre-Dental Society, mentored junior students, and served as a research assistant in two labs. She currently volunteers with We Connect Windsor, raising funds for its scholarship programs.

Amalow, executive director of the Organization of Part-time University Students, received the Daphne V. Clarke Trailblazer award. OPUS has been working with WEST to provide training and experience to young women. Amalow’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity has provided youths of varying backgrounds with opportunities to learn skills that will empower them on their journey to success.

Taylor is the program manager for innovation, entrepreneurship, and student experience at the Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre at St. Clair College. She received the Visionary Award in recognition of her experience founding multiple businesses as well as community engagement with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor Regional Hospital, and Women of Windsor Mentorship Collaborative.

Tolson-Murtty received the Influencer Award. She is the director for Anti-Racism Organizational Change in the Office of the Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Windsor, where is pursuing doctoral studies in education. Her volunteer work includes board positions with the Hour-a-Day Study Club, Black Council of Windsor-Essex, United Way Windsor-Essex County, Family Fuse, and PROPEL: Preparing for the Realities of Post-Secondary Education and Life.

Watch a video recording of the “Break the Bias” virtual gala.