The Great Lakes Society of BC (GLNS) is deeply committed to Truth and Reconciliation, decolonization, and combating racism. With a legacy spanning over 130 years, GLNS acknowledges its historical role in oppressing Indigenous Peoples and seeks to instigate healing and positive change within its organization and the broader communities it serves across Metro Vancouver and beyond.

Central to GLNS’s mission is the creation of inclusive spaces where community members, volunteers, and staff engage in open dialogues about racism at individual and systemic levels. This initiative includes confronting various forms of discrimination such as anti-Black, anti-Indigenous, anti-Muslim, anti-Semitic, anti-Asian racism, and others. The organization emphasizes the importance of active listening, continuous learning, and acting as allies to marginalized groups.

GLNS undertakes a critical examination of its complicity in colonization and acknowledges the impact of its historical silence. It commits to accountability by ensuring diverse community representation in senior leadership and governance, striving for substantial rather than superficial changes within its organizational framework. Departing from traditional hierarchical structures, GLNS adopts a grassroots approach that prioritizes power-sharing and collaborative decision-making, ensuring that community voices shape its policies and initiatives.

The organization extends its commitment to advocating for children and youth through policy reforms and program enhancements aimed at enhancing their quality of life. GLNS endeavors to dismantle systemic barriers and create opportunities for marginalized communities to prosper.

Ms. Kombii Nanjalah, CEO of GLNS, epitomizes this commitment through her extensive advocacy efforts. Her leadership in initiatives like “Great Lakes Kenya” demonstrates a dedication to empowering marginalized communities through practical interventions and community-driven solutions. Ms. Nanjalah’s personal journey underscores her belief in the transformative impact of community engagement and creativity. She uses her platform to promote positive life skills and ethical values among young people, earning recognition such as Kenya’s Presidential Award for her societal contributions. Her involvement with organizations like MYSA reflects a lifelong dedication to social justice and empowerment.

In Canada, Ms. Nanjalah celebrates the nation’s diversity and advocates for unity amidst cultural, linguistic, and religious differences. She emphasizes shared values like respect, acceptance, and inclusion as crucial in fostering cohesive communities where collective aspirations transcend divisive concerns.

Through the Great Lakes Networking Society of BC, Ms. Nanjalah continues to champion a collective impact model that harnesses arts and creativity to drive positive change. This approach empowers underserved communities to leverage their potential and reshape their environments for the better.

In conclusion, under Ms. Kombii Nanjalah’s leadership, GLNS embodies an unwavering commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, decolonization, and anti-racism. Through inclusive dialogue, accountable leadership, and community-driven initiatives, the organization endeavors to heal intergenerational wounds and foster a fairer society where everyone can thrive.