Who We Are
Our Story
and Values
We envision a world where women of colour are not only included but celebrated—thriving as leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Our vision is about rising beyond limitations, embracing every part of our identity, and unlocking the full potential within. At Raising Phoenixes, we’re laying the foundation for generational change—empowering women to soar with confidence, purpose, and pride.
Inspiring women of colour to take flight, soar to new heights and be the best of themselves
Our Vision
Our mission is grounded in the understanding that women of colour face systemic barriers that often isolate, silence, or exclude them. Raising Phoenixes exists to shift that narrative—by creating intentional spaces where community, courage, and care intersect. Whether through peer support, mentorship, education, or advocacy, we cultivate environments where women can be fully seen, deeply supported, and powerfully equipped to pursue their goals.
Raising Phoenixes creates brave and safe spaces where women of colour can connect, share knowledge, learn, and grow together.
Our Mission
Our Principles
Courage
We challenge each other to let go of expectations we've long held of who we had to be and what people expect us to be.
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, respect, and transparency in all our actions and interactions.
Peace
We foster serenity and harmony by enhancing our physical, spiritual, mental, emotional health and well-being.
Compassion
We treat each other with kindness, understanding, and empathy, supporting one another in all circumstances.
United
We lift each other up, we amplify each other's voices through collective effort, knowing that we are stronger and will achieve more together.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Denise Ledi
Denise is a leadership coach, governance expert, and Co-Chair at Raising Phoenixes. She builds inclusive, equity-focused organizations through strategic planning, evaluation, and coaching women to lead with clarity and courage.
Cecilia Mzvondiwa
Cecilia is a lawyer, speaker, and DEIB strategist who empowers leaders to build inclusive, purpose-driven communities. As Board Treasurer, she brings legal expertise and transformative insight to support equity, justice, and sustainable impact at Raising Phoenixes.
Our Story
Raising Phoenixes was founded by women of colour who turned adversity into action. Inspired by the phoenix, we created a space where women rise—through healing, learning, and leadership—together.
Why We Rose
Raising Phoenixes was born from the lived experiences of women of colour who recognized that too often, their brilliance, strength, and potential were dimmed by systemic inequities and societal expectations. As immigrants, caregivers, professionals, and leaders, they had navigated workplace bias, isolation in community spaces, and a lack of culturally relevant support.
Yet, from these fires, something powerful emerged.
Beginning
1
The founders of Raising Phoenixes came together with a shared vision: to build a community that doesn't just survive adversity—but rises because of it. Inspired by the resilience of the mythical phoenix, they saw their own rebirth mirrored in its flight. The name symbolizes what happens when women are given space to heal, lead, and grow together—boldly and brightly, in all their diverse colours.
Vision
2
Evolution
What began as a grassroots gathering has evolved into a registered not-for-profit organization committed to creating brave and safe spaces where women of colour can access support, share knowledge, and unlock opportunity. From professional development to healing circles, from advocacy to entrepreneurship, Raising Phoenixes continues to build programs and partnerships that help women rise—again and again.
3
This is more than an organization. It’s a movement of renewal, resilience, and rising together.
Now
4
Dorothy Agbetiafa
Dorothy is a strategic consultant and Board Secretary at Raising Phoenixes. She brings expertise in program evaluation, equity-driven initiatives, and community engagement, guided by the Sankofa principle of honoring the past to build a better future.
Carol Chau-Wong
Carol is a dedicated social worker with a decade of experience in health, education, and nonprofits. She advocates for equity and amplifies the voices of marginalized communities at every level—local to national
Karen Chinaleong-Brooks
Karen is Co-Chair of Raising Phoenixes and a public health expert. She empowers marginalized communities through strategic leadership, education, and advocacy rooted in fairness, equity, and collective liberation.