By: Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Burlington Local-News.ca
Over the weekend, on Sat., Dec. 6, 2025, West-End Mums (WEM) welcomed approximately 150 elegantly dressed guests to their second annual WEM Gala, a vibrant celebration of culture, community and motherhood. The atmosphere Oakville’s OE Banquet Hall was warm and lively as MC Mercury and MC Royal kept the crowd entertained with humour, games, and interactive moments — including teaching MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos a Nigerian dance move. Laughing along with the audience, Triantafilopoulos joked that she would return the favour by teaching the group Greek dances next time. The evening also included raffles, giveaways, and a soulful live performance from singer Kenneth Collins.
The gala’s purpose went far beyond entertainment. It was a night built on support, solidarity, and recognition for the Nigerian mothers and growing network of women who make up WEM. One of the evening’s most notable moments came when MPP Triantafilopoulos presented a formal recognition from the Government of Ontario, honouring the organization’s impact.
“I would like to present, on behalf of the Government of Ontario, Premier Doug Ford, and as a Member of Provincial Parliament for Oakville North–Burlington, my sincere pleasure in recognizing West-End Mums on your celebration of your 2025 WEM Gala,” said Triantafilopoulos. “Thank you for your inspiring commitment to empowering women, strengthening families, and building a vibrant community of support and connection. Your work continues to uplift and unite Nigerian mothers across Oakville and beyond.”
Her remarks continued with praise for the group’s leadership and the wider value of their initiatives. “By fostering mentorship and creating opportunities for mothers to build confidence and connection, you are enriching not only your members but the broader community we live in as well,” she said, emphasizing that the province recognizes the importance of grassroots organizations. “Our government in Ontario recognizes the importance of community-led initiatives like yours. We have programs that support families such as the Ontario Child Benefit, newcomer settlement services, and community grant initiatives that help local organizations deliver meaningful programming. We remain committed to building stronger and resilient communities.”
She highlighted WEM’s role in advancing that vision, noting, “When organizations like West-End Mums bring people together, create opportunities for connection and empower families to thrive, they play an essential role in advancing that shared goal. Tonight’s gala is an opportunity to celebrate you, to celebrate your accomplishments, to reflect on the growth and impact of this community and to honour the relationships built along the way.” Triantafilopoulos ended her remarks with heartfelt gratitude and festive well-wishes, adding, “West-End Mums, you rock.”
Although Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward was unable to attend in person, she sent a video message celebrating WEM’s story and influence. “Your journey has been remarkable, and your impact has been felt across the west end,” Meed Ward said. “You created a space where Nigerian moms can find culturally relevant programming, peer support, and a strong network as they navigate motherhood, immigration, career development, and community inclusiveness.” She also acknowledged the leadership team by name and praised their dedication. “Your programs are making a real difference — the women in business initiative, career transition and leadership development sessions — you are giving women the tools they need to thrive. This is economic empowerment in action.”
The night transitioned into a lively after-party, where guests filled the dance floor to a mix of Nigerian music, soca, reggae, and afrobeats. The energy was joyful, celebratory, and unmistakably communal — reflecting exactly what West-End Mums has come to represent.
Originally created as a support network for Nigerian mothers in Halton, WEM has evolved into a broader community for moms and women in general, offering connection, mentorship, culturally informed programs and a sense of belonging. Remarkably, the organization is fully volunteer-run, sustained by women who believe so deeply in the mission that they often invest their own resources to keep programs accessible and impactful.
For more information about West-End Mums and their work in the community, visit their website at www.westendmums.org.
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