By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Nigerian mothers across the Halton region and beyond are gearing up for an unforgettable evening of culture, community, and celebration as local organization Nigerian Mums in the West prepares to host its annual end-of-year gala on December 6, 2025. The event, now in its second year, will take place at OE Banquet and Conference Hall in Oakville, bringing together families, community leaders, and supporters for a night that highlights the accomplishments of Nigerian women in the region.
The organization, also known as West-end Mums, was founded in 2021 by Burlington resident Chichi Okiche. Having recently moved to the Halton area with a newborn, she found herself without family, friends, or a familiar support system nearby.
“I started the group out of the need for community after moving to a new area and just having a baby,” says Okiche. “I had no family or friends around and wanted to connect with people who looked like me, specifically in the west end of the Halton region, so they were close by. I wanted a community close to home, a safe space where we could share resources and support one another.”
What began as a personal search for connection has since grown into a thriving network of over 350 mothers. Okiche built the group one conversation at a time.
“I would literally walk up to women in the grocery store and ask if they wanted to be part of the group,” she says with a laugh. Today, the network includes mothers from Oakville to Niagara Falls and hosts an array of initiatives, from career support workshops to family picnics and moms-only events designed to nurture friendships and create a sense of belonging.
The upcoming gala is one of the organization’s proudest traditions. Designed to honour community impact and celebrate the achievements of Nigerian women, the event will shine a spotlight on entrepreneurs, leaders, and mothers who have made meaningful contributions throughout the year. “The end-of-year gala is about celebrating some of the women in our community for their impact,” says Okiche. “It’s also a chance for husbands, family, and friends to come out, have fun together, and enjoy a beautiful night.” The evening will also welcome dignitaries, including the Mayor Rob Burton of Oakville and local MP Effie J. Triantafilopoulos, a testament to the growing visibility and recognition of the group.
Beyond celebration, West-end Mums focuses on education, empowerment, and practical support for immigrant families navigating new systems and expectations. Career workshops are held annually, including a February session with a career coach and a June entrepreneurship event that offers guidance on starting and scaling businesses. The group also collaborates with community partners, including CIBC, to provide resources on financial literacy, business development, and career transitions. “We’re building a support system,” says Okiche. “A safe space where moms can share experiences, seek advice, and navigate life together.”
For Okiche personally, living in Burlington and the wider Halton region has deepened her appreciation for the community. “I love Burlington,” she says. “I lived in Etobicoke previously, and I have a lot of peace here. It has been positive raising kids and having a sense of community.” She adds that being part of West-end Mums encourages local involvement, whether through volunteering at schools, contributing to local fairs, or supporting food banks.
The organization’s long-term vision centres on strengthening the presence and voice of African families in the region. “We want to see the Nigerian community recognized,” says Okiche. “We hope to support local charities, get more involved in youth programs so kids can see other Black moms engaged, and help make our neighbourhoods safe while supporting local businesses.”
For mothers looking to join, the process is simple. “Go to www.westendmoms.org and click on the ‘Join Us’ button,” says Okiche. “Someone will reach out and add them to the community. Anyone who is a mom and wants to connect is welcome — even if they’re married to a Nigerian. We are open and inclusive.”
The 2025 End-of-Year Gala will feature a red carpet at 5 p.m., followed by the main program at 6 p.m. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased through the organization’s website. The venue, OE Banquet and Conference Hall at 2245 Speers Road in Oakville, is expected to be filled with music, elegance, and heartfelt celebration.
What began as one mother’s wish for connection has evolved into a powerful network embodying belonging, growth, and empowerment. As Nigerian Mums in the West prepares to close the year with glamour and gratitude, the community it has built continues to flourish — one mother, one story, and one shared experience at a time.
