We were honoured to welcome community leaders including Mike Morrice, Berry Vrbanovic, Chantal Huinink, Tim Louis, and Aislinn Clancy, alongside impactful speakers such as Mifrah Abid, Anne Marie Cipriani, Leon Kehl, Mamuzo Nwokoro, and Myeengun Henry.

We were also grateful to have community representatives join the conversation, including Sarah Shafiq from Coalition of Muslim Women, Ana Lagos Suazo from KW Multicultural Centre, the Ubuntu Kids from ACAWRA, and to Fauzia Baig for joining us to represent the Region of Waterloo

A highlight of the day was Mamuzo Nwokoro’s heartfelt performance of “We Are Kitchener” alongside her sons, reflecting unity, belonging, and shared humanity. We also appreciated the practical insights shared by Geraldine Stafford from the Waterloo Regional Police Service on recognizing and addressing racism in everyday life.

This event is a testament to the passion, leadership, and commitment of our Young Professionals team. As we reflect on the day, we are reminded that building an inclusive and equitable community begins with each of us through listening, learning, and meaningful action.

This initiative is proudly funded by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation.

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When we embrace one another’s differences with open hearts, we put love into action. At GRFS, we believe that love is more than a feeling — it’s what we do. Celebrating diversity, showing kindness, and building bridges between cultures is how we live this message every day.

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At Grand River Friendship Society, we marked Autism Pride Day with heartfelt messages, community reflections, and vibrant visuals filled with symbols of unity and support. Together, we uplifted the voices that too often go unheard and celebrated the beautiful spectrum of human minds.

Because love isn’t just something we say—it’s something we do. At GRFS, “Love is a Verb” means building spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

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Autism is not a limitation—it’s a different way of experiencing the world. By embracing this diversity, we enrich our communities, challenge stereotypes, and create spaces where everyone can thrive.

Let’s use this day to listen, learn, and advocate. Because awareness is the first step toward acceptance—and acceptance is the foundation of love.

Love is a verb—let’s show it in action, today and every day.

The post Honoring World Autism Awareness Day – April 2 appeared first on GRFS.

Let’s keep building a world where diversity is celebrated and support is second nature. Because when we show up for each other, we all rise.

Love is a verb.

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Together, we explored ideas for future partnerships, fostering collaboration to create meaningful change. It was inspiring to witness the dedication of CMW in empowering women and advocating for inclusivity.

A heartfelt thank you to the Coalition of Muslim Women for their warm invitation and hospitality. We truly appreciate the opportunity to connect and collaborate!

Because at the heart of every great initiative, love is a verb—a force that moves us to connect, support, and build a better tomorrow. ?

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