The Grandmothers of the Grand invite people to their fall speaker series being held at the Centre Wellington High School.
There is no cost but a free will offering for African Grandmothers will be appreciated.
The group supports the work of the Stephen Lewis Foundation. which supports African grandmothers who have been thrust into the role of caregiver to the millions of AIDS orphans. Despite the challenges faced every day by the grandmothers of Africa, they are holding their communities together through their energy and exuberance for life.
On Sept. 17, Janet Wilson, of Eden Mills, an author and artist, will speak about her book One Peace: True Stories of Young Activists, which combines her passions for social justice, portraiture, writing, and research. It is an illustrated collection of inspirational, real-life accounts of the power of children enhanced with artwork, poetry, and photographs.
Inspired by the philosophy of Gandhi “to reach peace we must begin with the children” Wilson will share her personal experiences in Africa and her close association with humanitarian efforts. She has promised to bring her art, which has been inspired by her African connection.
On Oct. 8, B.J. Caldwell, a prevention and outreach educator with the AIDS committee of Guelph and Wellington County will talk about the prevention and the problems of AIDS and HIV in the Fergus and Guelph area. Some might be unaware there is an HIV and AIDS clinic in Guelph. The club encourages grade 9 and up students, parents and grandparents to attend to better understand the new health risks and challenges faced by young people.
On Oct. 22, Rick Goodfellow, of Salem, will present a retrospective of his Tour d’Afrique adventure. It was an 11,000km trip on his bicycle from Cairo to Cape Town, South Africa. The presentation will include pictures of Africa.
On Nov. 5, Sharon Rice, of Elora, will give a PowerPoint presentation and talk of her 2006 solo trip to Africa to set up a children’s library in Tanzania on behalf of the Rotary Club of Guelph. She will offer a glimpse of the Africa she saw and the huge need for help in the continent.
All of the talks start at 7pm.
The Grandmothers of the Grand will be available to answer questions and give information about the Stephen Lewis Foundation initiatives.
Group members are available to speak or show a DVD about the programs provided by the foundation of grassroots organizations in Africa. Contact Cinda 519-843-1528 for more information about the speaker’s series, or about booking a speaker.
