Sayaspora, established in Montreal in 2015, has dedicated the past ten years to providing a platform for young women of the African diaspora to share their stories, develop skills, and foster a sense of community.
Originating as a modest online blog, Sayaspora has evolved into a global media outlet and community initiative, now commemorating its 10th anniversary.
Driven by the lack of representation in mainstream media, the organization was founded with the vision of empowering voices that were often marginalized. Executive director Djamilla Toure explained, “Our mission stemmed from the need for authentic representation and spaces where our stories could be genuinely portrayed and our voices heard.”
Initially, Sayaspora operated as an online space for women of the African diaspora to showcase their narratives and drive positive change. Over time, the organization expanded its scope to encompass physical events, recognizing the importance of bridging the digital and real-world experiences.
Today, Sayaspora conducts social media campaigns, publishes a magazine, and produces digital content online while also hosting in-person workshops and panels to support individuals in their personal and professional growth in Canada.
What started in Montreal has now grown into a vast online network with over 19,000 members, predominantly women aged between 18 and 34. Toure emphasized their focus on empowering the youth, a demographic that remains central to their mission.
Sayaspora’s influence transcends borders, with a significant following across various continents, particularly in cities like Montreal, Paris, and Bamako, Mali.
Among the organization’s notable endeavors is Sayalab, an initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of content creators in Montreal and Ottawa. Witnessing the positive impact of these programs on participants’ lives is a source of immense fulfillment for Toure.
Celebrating its anniversary on Nov. 29, Sayaspora hosted a lively community event, symbolizing its growth and accomplishments. The occasion featured diverse representations of the organization’s initiatives, showcasing its impact through various platforms and projects.
While Sayaspora engages with weighty topics like health and security, the anniversary served as a moment of joy and festivity, reflecting on the journey and achievements thus far.
This year, Sayaspora also unveiled a community space in Montreal, envisioned as a hub for communal gatherings and events, signifying its commitment to fostering connections within the broader community.
Looking ahead, Sayaspora aims to expand its footprint across Canada, developing programs not only in Montreal but also in Ontario and other provinces.
For Toure, leading Sayaspora is a profound and purposeful endeavor, resonating with her belief in living a meaningful life through impactful work.
She encapsulates the essence of Sayaspora’s ethos in her message to others: “If you sense a void that needs to be filled, perhaps you are the one destined to create it.”
As Sayaspora embarks on its next chapter, it continues its journey of growth and transformation, extending its reach beyond Montreal to uplift voices, foster unity, and redefine representation in media — one story at a time.
