On August 19, 2023, the women’s wing of the Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO) organized a boat cruise in Peterborough Mariner with a focus on the mental well-being of women. The event was designed to offer relaxation and stress relief to women in the community, targeting those aged 14 years and above. With an attendance of over 82 people, attendees were transported by two coaches that operated between the Sheridan Mall and Scarborough Town Centre locations at 8:30 am and 9 am for pick-up, and 5 pm and 6 pm for drop-off.
During the boat cruise, participants engaged in social activities, reconnecting with old friends, and making new connections. The event featured music, dancing, and a hydraulic boat cruise that provided insights into the history of Peterborough. It was fully accessible, allowing attendees with mobility devices to fully participate.
A psychotherapist was present during the event, facilitating a group session to provide support for women experiencing mental distress. Recognizing the importance of mental wellness, the organization aims to focus on this initiative, understanding that the well-being of women contributes to a safe home for the community. The event aimed to address the tendency of women, often the backbone of families, to overlook self-care while prioritizing the needs of others.
The positive feedback received at the end of the cruise event included expressions of gratitude to the organizers for a great time, inquiries about the dates for the next event, and suggestions for future events and potential venues. The women’s wing acknowledged the continuous need for improvement and emphasized the goal of reaching every Ghanaian woman in Ontario. The call for more volunteers, enhanced planning, communication, involvement of external organizations, and increased funding through grants and partnerships were highlighted as crucial steps to support the programs and events held by the GCAO.