Mental health services tailored to your needs and experiences

8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Phone lines and online services offer, confidential support and follow-up to youth and adults without barriers or judgement.

Get Help Now
Call or Text Us:

587.893.9355

Mental health services tailored to your needs and experiences

8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Phone lines and online services offer, confidential support and follow-up to youth and adults without barriers or judgement.

Get Help Now
Call or Text Us:

587.893.9355

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We assist Black women and girls who immigrated to Calgary from Africa and the Caribbean.

Transition Age Youths

Transition Age Youths (TAY) refers to individuals who are in the process of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, typically between the ages of 16 and 24.

Adults

An adult refers to a person who has reached the age of majority and is considered to have reached the stage of full legal and social maturity.

Older Adults

An older adult, commonly referred to as a senior or elderly person, generally refers to an individual who has reached an advanced stage of life, typically beyond the age of 60.

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What is the HERConnect Initiative

The HERConnect initiative is dedicated to transforming mental healthcare for Calgary’s Black immigrant community at no cost. We provide mental health services tailored to the specific needs and experiences of African and Caribbean women and girls who have recently immigrated to Calgary within the past five years.

Who We Are

The visionary HERConnect initiative is brought to you by the Ladies in the Family Foundation (LIFF), in partnership with Alberta Black Therapist Network (ABTN) and Hope Alive Ministry (HAM), with the generous support of the City of Calgary’s Community Safety Investment Framework.

Mission

Connecting African and Caribbean women and girls with the support they need. Providing them with a culturally sensitive mental health crisis response and referral network

Vision

To build a resilient, inclusive, and mentally health community for Black immigrants in Calgary.

HERConnect Initiative

Our Services

We assist Black women and girls from Africa and the Caribbean.

Crisis Response

Immediate assistance for navigating access to basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare with the help of a multicultural link worker and social worker.

Counselling

We Offer culturally sensitive counseling services customized for newcomers and immigrant Black women and girls, delivered virtually or in-person by Black therapists.

Therapy

Culturally sensitive virtual and/or in-person therapy services tailored to newcomers and immigrant Black women and girls, provided by Black therapists.

Educational Resources

Providing education and information on mental health issues and resources while fostering a sense of belonging within the Black community.

Community Building

Connecting new community members to cultural communities while helping them find other resources within Calgary.

Advocacy

Assessing access to mental health crisis services for immigrant Black community and collaborating with the City of Calgary and local organizations to improve service provision.

Our Events

Join us in supporting Black women and girls  from Africa and the Caribbean.

Unhappy African American Woman Sitting On Therapy Session Indoor
Racial Justice Conference
Dismantling Systemic Racism, Transforming Lives.
This in-person event will be from March 18-19, 2024. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.
March 18, 2024
HERConnect Webiner - Natalie
Webinars: Mental Health Talks
Join us as we talk about the "BURNOUT: signs, risk & preventions."
May 8, 2024
HERConnect Initiative Launch - Dan Williams (1)
INITIATIVE LAUNCH
Transforming Mental Health Care for Black Female Immigrants
May 10, 2024
HERConnect Webiner - Mariam
Webinars: Mental Health Talks
Join us as we talk about the "HIDDEN HOMELESSNESS"
May 22, 2024
HERConnect Webiner - EKene
Webinars: Mental Health Talks
Join us as we talk about the "BLACK DONT CRACK."
June 5, 2024
HERConnect Webiner - Modupe
Webinars: Mental Health Talks
Join us as we talk about the "SEX & YOU - the good and bad."
June 19, 2024

Collaboration Partners

Collaboration is the power of people working together towards a common goal, promoting cooperation and understanding

Hope Alive Ministry

Hope Alive Ministry serves Faith and African Caribbean communities with counseling therapy and mental health presentations. Its mission includes trauma work, mental well-being.

Alberta Black Therapists Network

A collaboration of licensed Black mental health and addictions professionals providing therapy, psycho-educational sessions, and diversity inclusion consultations in Alberta since 2020.

Ladies in the Family Foundation

A non-profit organization building relationships with newly immigrated Black women and girls in Calgary over the past six years, increasing their economic, social, and emotional wellbeing.

Our Funders & Partners

As our relationships with local organizations, funders, and stakeholders grow, so does our ability to assist Black women and girls with their mental health needs.

Meet the HERConnect Team

Our team consists of highly trained professionals who are passionate about helping others, providing personalized care and support tailored to your specific needs.
Bukola Ojemakinde
Director & Project Mgr.
Ladies in the Family Foundation
Oluyinka Marcus
Hope Alive Partner Lead
Hope Alive Ministry
Noreen Sibanda
Lead Therapist
HERConnect Initiative
Joelle Kacou
Emergency Line Coordinator
HERConnect Initiative
Nicole Colley
Volunteer Coordinator
HERConnect Initiative
Ekene Balogun
Crisis Therapist
HERConnect Initiative
Modupe Olagundoye
Crisis Therapist
HERConnect Initiative
Liliane Kom Kengah
Crisis Therapist
HERConnect Initiative
Oluwaseun Osowobi
Community Outreach Worker
HERConnect Initiative
Amanda Ncube
Multicultural Social Worker
HERConnect Initiative
Mary Asake
Social Worker
HERConnect Initiative
Shola Adelakun
Practicum Student
MACP Intern
Ibukunoluwa Oyekan
Administrative Support staff
HERConnect Initiative
Olatioluwase Olatona
Deputy Volunteer coordinator
HERConnect Initiative
Why Choose Us

Why talk to us about mental health

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Ready Anytime

We understand the importance of being available when you need us the most. Whether it's day or night, our dedicated team is ready to provide you with the support and assistance you require.

24/7 Communication

We believe that effective communication is crucial for building strong relationships and providing top-notch service. That's why we offer 24/7 communication channels, anytime, anywhere. Receive prompt response to your inquiries.

Our Team

Our team consists of highly trained professionals who are passionate about helping others. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, our team members are dedicated to providing personalized care and support tailored to your specific needs.

Emergency Help

We understand that emergencies can happen at any moment, and we are here to help. Our team is well-equipped to handle urgent situations and provide the necessary assistance to ensure your safety and well-being.

Advance Technology

We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the field. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and platforms, we are able to deliver efficient and effective services that meet the highest standards.

Licensed Therapist

Our team includes licensed therapists who are experienced in various therapeutic approaches. We providing professional guidance and support to help you navigate through challenging situations and achieve mental and emotional well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

The HERConnect Initiative provides barrier-free, non-judgmental, and confidential support through 24/7 phone lines and online services. We provide mental health services tailored to the specific needs and experiences of African and Caribbean women and girls who have recently immigrated to Calgary within the past five years.

You can access immediate support and follow-up from the HERConnect Initiative by calling their 24/7 phone lines or using their online services. They offer distress phone services and web-based chat services for youth and adults in distress. These services are available 7 days a week.

Yes, volunteering at the HERConnect Initiative is a great way to make a contribution to the community and gain valuable skills and experience. They have various volunteer roles available, including administration, crisis services responder, youth educator, bereavement volunteer, and communications volunteer. You can join their team of volunteers and provide support to those in need.

If you want to support the HERConnect Initiative financially, you can make a donation through their website. They also have options like the In-Kind donation, gifts in kind, gifts of securities, hosting a fundraiser, workplace donations, and more. Your contribution will help respond to the mental health crisis and foster compassionate, connected, suicide-safer communities.

What is the emergency helpline numbers? The HERConnect Initiative provides several emergency helpline channels. These include 587.893.9355. This helplines are available to individuals in need of immediate support.

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Testimonial

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Join Us

Crisis Response Team

Volunteering at HERConnect Initiative is a great way to make a contribution to the community and gain valuable skills and experience. You can join our team and provide support to those in need.
Volunteer Today
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Bukola Ojemakinde, MSc

LIFF’s Executive Director, Project Manager HERconnect

Bukola Ojemakinde, a chemical engineer and prominent community leader in Calgary, has made a significant impact by establishing two non-profit organizations over the past five years. One of these, the Ladies in the Family Foundation (LIFF), is dedicated to fostering healthier relationships, promoting emotional well-being, and helping women and their families integrate more effectively into Canadian culture. Through partnerships with organizations such as the Calgary African Community Collective (CACC), the Distress Centre of Calgary, and the Women’s Centre of Calgary, Bukola addresses critical mental and physical health challenges faced by Black girls, women, and seniors.

Bukola’s dedication to community service has earned her several accolades. She was recognized as one of Suncor’s five employees making a difference and awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. As the Executive Director of the Bridge to Oasis (BTO) Foundation, she received the Innovative Leadership Award at the Bhayana Awards. Additionally, she serves on the board of directors for the Calgary African Community Collective and is a member of the Gender Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Subcommittee, where she supports Calgary’s initiatives in these areas. She also acts as a Grant Committee Advisor for the Calgary Foundation.

In 2024, Bukola was honored with the Immigrant of Distinction Award (Community Service) by Immigrant Services Calgary. As an Ideation Specialist and Program Manager, Bukola oversees numerous impactful projects led by LIFF and the BTO Foundation. These include LIFF’s “HerConnect,” “Cook for Inclusion,” “BE-GIRL,” and “Light Up Our Podium” initiatives. Her unwavering commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities continues to inspire many.

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Oluyinka Marcus M. A, Counseling CPC

Hope Alive Partner Lead

Oluyinka, a counselling Therapist in Calgary since 2006, has a passion for family relationships to thrive through therapy and the power of healing. Her mission includes trauma work, awareness of mental well-being, emotional intelligence, generational gaps, family conflicts and culture clashes.

Oluyinka’s Hope Alive Ministry serves Faith and African Caribbean communities with counselling therapy and mental health presentations. Oluyinka is a board of director with Association of Counseling Therapists of Alberta (ACTA) and member of Professional Association of Christian Counsellors and Psychotherapists (PACCP). She co-authors ‘Walk With Me – A 30 Day Devotional’ with her daughter, Oluyomi, containing poetry and encouragement on overcoming negative emotions.

Hope Alive Ministry serves Faith and African Caribbean communities with counseling therapy and mental health presentations. Its mission includes trauma work, mental well-being awareness, emotional intelligence, generational gaps, family conflicts, and culture clashes.

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Noreen Sibanda, MA, CCC

Registered Provisional Psychologist

Noreen Sibanda is an experienced clinician, speaker, psycho-educational workshop facilitator and a sessional instructor at Concordia University. She has presented at both local and international conferences and has reviewed and developed anti-racism and mental health curricula for organizations and postsecondary institutions.

Noreen currently serves as the Executive Director of Alberta Black Therapist Network and is a University of Alberta alumni, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women and Gender studies. She also holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and is a practicing Registered Provisional Psychologist and owner at Kaizen Psychological and Consulting. Noreen has appeared on podcasts, television and radio shows and is the 2022 NBCA Professional of the Year, recipient of the 2022 Momentum Mental Health Award for outstanding leadership in the mental health community and for founding ABTN, and a 2023 nominee of the Health and Wellness Superlative Awards.

Noreen is a proud executive member of When African Women Talk and is currently applying her passion for mental health, education, social change, and womens rights through her employment as a community-based mental health therapist.

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Joelle Kacaou

Emergency Line Coordinator/ Link Worker

Afro-Canadian woman, originally from Ivory Coast, Joelle Kacou is a bilingual (English/French) professional specializing in crisis management, mental health support, and community engagement. With experience in mental health services, including as a Mental Health Support Facilitator with Action for Healthy Communities, Joelle has honed her skills in trauma-informed care and crisis intervention.

Her leadership roles, including as a Research Analyst and Head of Office for the Elections Campaign for the Republic of Ivory Coast in Alberta, have further strengthened her project management and communication skills. Joelle is committed to advocating for marginalized communities and fostering inclusive environments for Black women and girls.
Joelle Speaks French and English

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Nicole Colley

Practicum Student/ Volunteer Coordinator

Nicole is deeply passionate about youth and women’s empowerment, as well as all issues related to gender. Outside of work, she dedicates her time to volunteering with organizations that focus on empowering Black female youth, promoting gender equity, and advancing climate justice.

With over eight years of experience working with youth, women, and vulnerable populations, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work.

Originally from the beautiful country of Jamaica, she served as the Coordinator for the Science & Technology Education Unit at the Scientific Research Council before migrating to Canada. In this role, she implemented programs designed to popularize STEM education in primary and high schools across the island.

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Ekene Balogun, MA, CCC

Canadian Certified Counsellor

Ekene Balogun has a MA in Counselling Psychology and has worked with children, youth, Individuals, and families for over 25 years. Ekene started her career working with “high risk”/vulnerable youths, young mothers, and victims of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in London UK. Ekene has a wealth of experience working with individuals that have experienced trauma, depression, grief, self-harm, anxiety, stress, bullying and anger.

Ekene graduated in 2004 with a BSC in Social Science & Criminology. After graduating Ekene worked with the Metropolitan Police in London UK, then went onto work with the biggest charity in London NSPCC to protect children from child abuse.

After migrating to Canada in 2012, Ekene went onto to complete a master’s in counselling psychology and endeavors to find the unique blend that is best for her client. There is a famous quote that says, “Life is 10% of what happens to us and 90% is how we react to it”. Ekene believes we gain important pieces of wisdom through experience and Ekene’s goal is to reconnect individuals with the hope that change can happen, barriers can be broken, and that the quality of a person’s life can be maximized.

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Modupe Olagundoye, MA, CCC

Canadian Certified Counsellor

Modupe Olagundoye holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is a Canadian Certified Counsellor-Qualifying (CCC) with over 10 years of experience in the human services sector. As a compassionate mental health practitioner, I provide support to individual adults, children, and youth in a secure environment.

My expertise includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and narrative therapy (Tree of Life Narrative), consistently yielding positive and effective outcomes across diverse cultural backgrounds. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients to openly share their deepest fears and facilitate personal growth. Committed to continuous professional development, I strive to enhance my skills to better assist clients in navigating their challenges.

I firmly believe that clients are the architects of their lives, and my role is to accompany them on their journey, working collaboratively to identify solutions that align with their individual needs and meet them where they are.

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Liliane Kom Kengah MA, CCC

Crisis Mental Health Therapist - English & French

As a compassionate and dedicated therapist, I empower individuals to overcome life’s challenges and achieve a more fulfilling life. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and am a Certified Canadian Counsellor. I provide non-judgmental and empathetic counseling services. Areas of Expertise: Crisis management, transition and adjustment, loss, grief, and bereavement, trauma, PTSD and recovery, anxiety, depression, and mental wellness, relationship dynamics and communication.

Therapeutic Approach: Through a collaborative and personalized approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore emotions, identify patterns, and develop effective coping strategies. My goal is to empower individuals to discover their inner strength, cultivate self-awareness, and achieve a more fulfilling life. Modalities: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Trauma-Informed Practice, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Additional Roles: As a mental health advocate, social activist, social analyst, and community builder, I am passionate about promoting social justice, equality, and community well-being. Language: I speak both English and French. Let’s work together to navigate life’s challenges and unlock your full potential.

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Oluwaseun Osowobi, MAIR

Community Outreach Worker

Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi is a globally recognised gender equality advocate with extensive years of experience in deploying effective solutions to challenge systemic social barriers that promote violence against women and girls through policy and grassroots advocacy. She has implemented community initiatives, programs, and public relations campaigns that improved knowledge, attitudes, and practices on violence prevention, fostered access to social services for women and girls, and empowered citizens to become more aware of their rights to fight against inequalities and violence in their daily lives.

Through her previous engagements, Oluwaseun collaborated with and scaled the capacity of state and non-state actors to implement policies and programs that advance women’s rights and safety. She is a Founding Member of the Feminist Coalition and Council Member of Nala Feminist Collective, two feminist movements advancing women’s rights, access, and accountability measures to mandate that African governments uphold their Generation Equality Forum (GEF) commitments. Oluwaseun holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from Swansea University, UK. 

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Amanda Ncube

Multicultural Social Worker

Amanda is a dedicated community social worker, with over a decade of experience in the social service field. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and is registered with the Alberta College of Social Work. She has experience creating and implementing programs tailored to meet community needs, with a particular emphasis on youth and family support. She has a deep commitment to equity, racial justice, diversity, inclusion and decolonization, Amanda brings her lived experiences as a Black woman to the forefront of her practice.

In Addition to her community focused work Amanda has collaborated with the United Nations and the Inter Council Network as a youth delegate, contributing to global discussions on the status of women and gaining valuable insights into policy and advocacy.

Amanda is Passionate about creating meaningful change and is inspired by the resilience of her clients and the power of grassroot community development. Amanda Speaks English and Ndbebele/Zulu

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Mary Asake

Social Worker, Hope Alive Ministry - Herconnect Project

Mary Asake is a dedicated and licensed Clinical Social Worker with Alberta Health Services, bringing extensive experience across various areas of social work, including Acute Care, Pediatric Community Rehabilitation, Child Protection, and Parenting Education. She holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Social Work, half Marathons and may other races.

Passionate about community service and volunteerism, Mary has demonstrated strong leadership in both professional and volunteer settings. She has actively contributed to organizations such as MONAC (Middlebelt Association of Nigeria in Canada), NCAC (Nigerian Canadian Association of Calgary), and RCCN (Rotary Club of Calgary North). Additionally, she has participated in the 100km Kidney March for seven consecutive years amongst others.

Mary’s commitment to community-building has been recognized with several honors, including a Recognition Certificate for Community Building Work from the Legislative Assembly of Alberta (August 2024) and the King Charles III Coronation Medal (January 2025). Mary is a sociable, reliable and fun-loving individual.

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Shola Adelakun

Practicum Student /MACP Intern

I am a Counseling Psychology student at Yorkville University, currently completing my internship under the supervision of a licensed professional. With several years of experience working with diverse populations in the human services field, my approach integrates strength-based, solution-focused, and CBT modalities to create a holistic and supportive experience for clients navigating life’s challenges.

I am particularly passionate about working with individuals and families dealing with grief, anxiety, and depression, with a specific interest in supporting individuals navigating maternal, perinatal, and reproductive mental health concerns. Dedicated to serving the BIPOC community, I strive to create a culturally sensitive and safe environment that empowers clients and fosters resilience. By honoring diverse backgrounds, generational differences, and unique experiences, I aim to build meaningful connections and provide personalized support.

Through unconditional positive regard and a collaborative approach, we can work together to develop the tools needed for your healing and growth. Shola speaks English and Yoruba.

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Ibukunoluwa Oyekan

Hope Alive Ministry - Administrative Support staff

Ibukunoluwa is a dynamic and purpose-driven professional with expertise in finance, administration, and specialized welfare services. With a master’s degree in accounting, she has made significant contributions to the financial sector, excelling in financial planning and analysis. Beyond numbers, Ibukunoluwa is deeply invested in people.

She has implemented tailored support systems that cater to individuals with diverse needs in mental health, disabilities, and elderly support. Her ability to integrate financial acumen with human-centered solutions makes her a unique blend of precision and empathy. Fluent in English and Nigerian, she is committed to driving meaningful change through structure and service.

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Olatioluwase Olatona

LIFF’s Administrative Support staff /Deputy Volunteer coordinator

Olatioluwase Olatona holds a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of British Columbia. She is passionate about helping people connect to the resources and support they need to thrive, particularly within communities that face systemic barriers. With her academic background and hands-on experience, Olatioluwase brings a thoughtful and empathetic approach to fostering connections and empowering others.

As a woman of color, she is deeply aware of the unique challenges minorities face, from underrepresentation to navigating cultural and systemic obstacles. Olatioluwase is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, driven by the belief that uplifting marginalized voices creates stronger, more vibrant communities. Her goal is to use her experiences and passion to break down barriers, amplify voices, and create spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. Outside of work, Olatioluwase enjoys snowboarding, exploring new activities, and volunteering at her church. Whether hitting the slopes or serving her community, she embraces every opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with others.