On November 15, 2024, the majestic Hotel Marysin Dwór in Katowice, Poland served as the backdrop for a truly distinguished evening—the Brilliant Minded Women Gala, held in proud collaboration with the Order of St. Stanislas. This intimate gathering welcomed 200 esteemed guests from across the globe to honor exceptional leadership, cultural heritage, and the enduring power of human connection.
An elegant fusion of purpose and pageantry, the gala paid tribute to those who lead with vision, uplift their communities, and embody the highest ideals of compassion, innovation, and excellence.

An Evening of Purpose and Prestige

The gala was more than a celebration—it was a moment of reflection, empowerment, and forward-thinking. Through inspiring speeches, live performances, and meaningful awards, the evening shone a spotlight on women in leadership, the importance of service, and the global movement for gender equality.
Every element of the program was thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of warmth, unity, and cultural richness. Guests were immersed in fine dining, dynamic entertainment, and heartfelt recognition, forging connections that will continue to grow beyond the event itself.

Award Ceremony

• 4 Awardees in 2 Categories: Individuals were recognized for their excellence in Community Service and Business Development, each celebrated for their unwavering dedication to creating a better, more equitable world.
• 7 Brilliant Minded Global Ambassadors: These visionary leaders were celebrated for their international impact, exceptional leadership, and commitment to empowering others. As Brilliant Minded Women Global Ambassadors, they stand as powerful symbols of cross-cultural leadership.
• 5 Recipients of the Order of St. Stanislas: The historic and prestigious Order of St. Stanislas was conferred upon five remarkable individuals—Dames and Cavaliers—in recognition of their lifelong contributions to humanitarian efforts, public service, and global leadership.
• Certificates of Achievement: Each Brilliant Minded Women awardee received a beautifully personalized certificate, acknowledging their extraordinary impact and their role in advancing the mission of women in leadership.
• Certificates of Appreciation: Our generous sponsors and donors were also formally recognized with Certificates of Appreciation, honoring their invaluable support and belief in the Foundation’s mission.
• Acknowledging the Team and Volunteers: Behind every unforgettable evening is a team of passionate individuals. Special recognition was given to the dedicated volunteers and event team, whose hard work and devotion made the gala a true success.

Entertainment Highlights

The evening’s entertainment was a celebration of both tradition and modern expression:
🎻 A live violinist welcomed guests with elegance and grace, setting the tone for an evening of refinement.
💃 A vibrant dance performance energized the room, blending art and movement in a way that reflected the passion of the cause.
🎶 Classic and contemporary music, performed by a live band, seamlessly transitioned the night into joyous celebration, concluding with a nostalgic disco set that brought guests to their feet.
🌟 A captivating laser arts performance added a touch of magic and modernity to the night, creating an unforgettable visual experience.

In-Kind Support Contributions

This memorable evening was further enriched by generous in-kind donations, symbolizing appreciation, legacy, and shared vision:

• 💎 $20,000 Contribution
  Guests were gifted 200 copies of the commemorative documentary album,
  “Living Legends: Brilliant Minds in the World”, celebrating the extraordinary stories of individuals whose lives continue to shape and inspire the world.
• 🎁 $5,000 Contribution
  Thoughtfully curated gift baskets were presented to Sponsors, Donors, Ambassadors, and Awardees, each one a heartfelt token of gratitude and celebration.

November 1, 2019 | Riviera Event Space, Concord, Ontario
Guests: 500+

Brilliant Talk – Voices That Inspire

• Joanna Andros: My Blueprint of Self Sabotage – Helping individuals break free from self-sabotage and unlock their potential.
• Josephine Auciello: The Importance of Body, Mind & Spirit Alignment in Your Business – Teaching participants how to align their inner and outer worlds for business success.
• Tanya Chernova: The Courage to Have Life-Changing Conversations – Empowering people to step out of their comfort zones and have impactful, transformative conversations.
• Yvonne Bogorya Buczkowski: Women Empowerment – Offering strategies for women to lead, empower others, and overcome societal barriers.
• Carine Lacroix: Canadian Women Driven by Entrepreneurship – Inspiring Canadian women to pursue their entrepreneurial goals and break new ground in the business world.
• Laura Compagni: Ignite Your Fire – You’ve Got The Power – A powerful coaching session designed to ignite passion and purpose in every participant.
• Dr. Jean Augustine: Resilience – Empowering individuals to overcome challenges and build resilience in their lives.
• Angela Demontigny: Becoming a Force for Change – Providing tools for attendees to become catalysts for positive social change.
• Danuta Domurad: Shake Off Your Old Self – Guiding participants through the process of shedding old habits and embracing transformation.
• Marilyn Field: What is Most Important for Our Children – Discussing the importance of supporting the mental and emotional well-being of the next generation.
• Ida Gerasolo: Mental Health and Dancers – Focusing on the mental health challenges unique to dancers and how to build resilience in this high-pressure field.
• Hennnah Ji: Your Brilliance is Your Ministry – Teaching individuals to harness their personal brilliance for the benefit of others.
• Lesley Page: Life is Too Short to be a Passenger – Inspiring people to take charge of their own lives and create their own path.
• Lesli Silvestri: Mental Health: Design & Dialogue – Engaging in meaningful conversations around mental health, offering practical advice and strategies for well-being.
• Dauna Jones Simmonds: The Journey of Impact of Black Canadian Women – Discussing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Black Canadian women in creating social change.
• Maggie Habieda: The Power of Single Image – A repeat session with a focus on empowering individuals to use their image as a tool for leadership and impact.

Tradeshow

The event showcased a diverse range of 120 businesses across various industries, offering attendees the opportunity to explore new products, services, and innovative solutions.

• Networking Opportunities: The tradeshow served as a dynamic platform for businesses to network, interact with potential clients, partners, and investors, creating opportunities for future collaboration and growth.
• Interactive Engagement: Attendees had the chance to engage directly with business representatives, ask questions, and receive personalized demonstrations of products and services, providing a hands-on experience with the latest industry innovations.
• Discover Emerging Trends: The exhibition featured cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough services, allowing attendees to stay ahead of the curve and discover the latest trends and industry developments.
• Business Expansion: The tradeshow created an ideal environment for businesses to expand their reach, build strong partnerships, and connect with individuals who could help accelerate their growth.
• Inspiration and Insight: Participants left with new ideas, inspiration, and insights that could support their business and personal development, contributing to their long-term success.

VIP Cocktail Event

The VIP Event offered an exclusive opportunity for high-level networking and relationship-building. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers gathered to connect, share experiences, and collaborate, fostering a supportive community focused on creating lasting social and professional impact.

• Exclusive Networking: Attendees had the chance to engage in one-on-one conversations and small group discussions with some of the most prominent leaders in their respective fields. The event created an ideal setting for sharing insights, discussing new trends, and exploring collaborative opportunities.
• Collaborative Environment: The event facilitated the exchange of ideas and experiences, allowing guests to brainstorm solutions, strategize, and build partnerships that could lead to innovative ventures and social impact projects.
• Building Relationships: The intimate nature of the event encouraged the cultivation of genuine relationships, fostering long-term professional connections and friendships among like-minded individuals dedicated to creating positive change.
• Focus on Social and Professional Impact: The gathering emphasized creating lasting impact—both socially and professionally—by encouraging attendees to connect not only for business growth but also to collaborate on initiatives that drive positive change in their communities.
• Inspiring Conversations: Thought-provoking conversations took place throughout the event, where attendees could share personal stories of success, challenges, and their vision for a better future, sparking inspiration for those in attendance.

Brilliant Minded Women Foundation – Spreading Smiles with Heart

The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization is proud to support the incredible mission of Million Dollar Smiles, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to reminding children and families facing life-threatening illnesses and special needs that they are loved, valued, and never alone. Through fundraising events and gift-giving programs, Million Dollar Smiles creates unforgettable experiences that bring joy, love, and light into the lives of children who need it most. As part of our commitment to community and compassion, the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation has proudly participated in their gift-giving initiative by:

• Sponsoring the cost of two custom teddy bears
• Volunteering to personally deliver five bears to families
• Attending the Annual Fundraising Gala in support of their ongoing mission
• Donating 100 “Living Legacy” albums as a gift to every donor contributing $100 or more toward Million Dollar Smiles’s causes

The “Living Legacy” album featured the inspiring story of Anna Lopes, the founder and President of Million Dollar Smiles. Her journey and dedication continue to inspire us all, and it was an honour to help share her legacy with others. Together, we believe in the power of small gestures to create big smiles—and even bigger impact.

Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization Recognizes Aviation Advocate Lesley Page and Supports ‘Girls Take Flight’

The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization is proud to have recognized Lesley Page with an award for her outstanding contributions to empowering women and girls in aviation. As the founder of the remarkable Girls Take Flight program, Lesley has opened the skies to hundreds of young women, inspiring them to dream big and pursue careers in aerospace. Held annually at the Durham Flight Training Centre in Oshawa, Girls Take Flight is a free aviation event that offers discovery flights to girls and women who have never flown in a small aircraft before, along with interactive displays, aviation workshops, and talks by inspiring female professionals from the industry. Lesley’s leadership has not only introduced nearly 1,000 youth to aviation through the Young Eagles and Girls Take Flight programs, but she has also created a scholarship fund to support flight training for girls aged 14 and up. Her impact is measurable, lasting, and deeply aligned with our Foundation’s mission. As part of our recognition of Lesley’s efforts, the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation has proudly supported and promoted the Girls Take Flight initiative across our network of organizations, helping to raise awareness and encourage broader participation. We continue to amplify programs like these that create real opportunities for young women to explore their potential in fields traditionally underrepresented by women. It was an honour to witness the excitement and empowerment this program brings and to celebrate a woman whose passion truly helps others take flight—in every sense of the word.

Brilliant Minded Women Foundation – Supporting Community Through Action

The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization is proud to support a wide range of causes that uplift and empower our communities—from helping newcomers to addressing critical health and mental wellness needs. One shining example is the Fashion Circuit Series, founded and organized annually by Brilliant Minded Women award recipient Leslie Silvestri. This elegant and impactful event raises vital funds for hospitals in Mississauga and for initiatives focused on overcoming mental health crises. The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation proudly supports these efforts—not only through financial contributions but also through active participation and promotion of the cause. Our involvement in events like the Fashion Circuit Series reflects our ongoing commitment to creating positive, sustainable change in our communities.

Brilliant Minded Women Foundation – Making a Difference in Our Community

In collaboration with AGAPAS Centre at Christ the Saviour Cathedral—a Toronto-based charity supporting displaced Ukrainian families—the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization proudly stepped in to help during a time of deep need. Throughout 2023 and 2024, we provided Christmas gifts for over 200 children and families, ensuring that even in the face of displacement and hardship, the magic of the holidays was not lost. We also supported the collection of essential items—from household goods to clothing—to help families start fresh as they build their new lives in Canada. Our continued support is more than just giving; it’s about creating sustainable, meaningful change for those in crisis. We are honoured to stand with AGAPAS in their mission and proud to be recognized for our role in helping transform lives through compassion and community spirit.

Brilliant Minded Women Foundation – Uplifting Women, Changing Lives

The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and Organization has consistently shown leadership in empowering women and supporting newcomers to Canada during times of transition and hardship. During the Syrian refugee crisis, Helen Neymeh, a Brilliant Minded Women award recipient, organized a heartfelt and inspiring gathering for refugee women. The event was designed to uplift and empower those adjusting to life in a new country. It offered a safe space for connection, support, and encouragement. Agata Klimczak, Founder of the Brilliant Minded Women Organization and Foundation, shared her personal story of immigrating to Canada—highlighting the challenges, emotions, and strength required to start over in an unfamiliar place. Her words left a lasting impression on the women, many of whom saw reflections of their own journeys in her experience. To make the event even more meaningful, Agata gifted the attendees with elegant donated clothing from Freda’s and Nama Couture, offering not only practical support but also a sense of dignity, beauty, and hope. This is just one of the many ways the Foundation continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of women and families navigating new beginnings.

40 Over Forty Award Gala – 2017

Founded by Brilliant Minded Women’s award-winning trailblazer Rosanna Barucha, the 40 Over Forty Gala is a powerful initiative under the banner of the Brilliant Minded Women Organization. This prestigious event celebrates the achievements of extraordinary women over the age of forty who continue to break boundaries and lead with passion, purpose, and impact. The 2017 gala proudly highlighted the accomplishments of Nadia Asfour, a dynamic leader and changemaker, who was honored as an award recipient. Her dedication to excellence and community empowerment embodies the very spirit of the Brilliant Minded Women movement — one that uplifts, connects, and celebrates the brilliance of women at every stage of life. Together, Rosanna and Nadia exemplify the essence of this event: honoring timeless excellence and inspiring future generations of empowered women.

SOS Children’s Villages Fundraising Event

Organized with compassion and vision by Rita Houkayem, Miss Universe Canada 2018 National Finalist & SOS Children’s Villages Ambassador, this impactful fundraising event in support of SOS Children’s Villages brought together a community of changemakers dedicated to giving every child a loving home and brighter future. The event was proudly sponsored by the Brilliant Minded Women Organization and esteemed awardee Nadia Asfour, both unwavering in their commitment to supporting children and families in need. Their joint efforts reflect a shared mission to uplift vulnerable communities and foster hope where it’s needed most. Together, these inspiring women and organizations are making a lasting difference — one child, one village, and one act of kindness at a time.

Latino Scholarship Foundation Banquets

The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation & Organization was honored to attend and support the Latino Scholarship Foundation Banquets—an inspiring event dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for Latino students and empowering future leaders through access, advocacy, and recognition. Our presence at this meaningful banquet reflects our continued commitment to diversity, education, and community-driven impact. We were proud to stand alongside community members, educators, and changemakers who are deeply invested in helping young scholars pursue their academic and professional goals. The evening was a powerful celebration of resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. Through scholarships and mentorship, the Latino Scholarship Foundation is creating a brighter future for countless students—many of whom are first-generation scholars with dreams of making a lasting difference in the world. As an organization that champions leadership, equity, and collaboration across all communities, we believe in the importance of uplifting voices from every background. Events like this remind us that when we come together with purpose and compassion, we can create pathways of opportunity that extend far beyond the room  We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate educational achievement and strengthen communities. Our heartfelt thanks to the Latino Scholarship Foundation for their incredible work and for allowing us to be part of such a meaningful event.

September 18, 2018 | Polish Consulate, Toronto
Guests: 260

A Celebration of Legacy, Culture, and Impact

The evening served as both a celebration and a call to action—a moment to honor those who inspire, while encouraging others to rise and lead. Held in one of Canada’s most historically significant diplomatic spaces, the event symbolized the unity between Canadian and Polish communities, and the shared values of resilience, excellence, and compassion.
Guests were immersed in a thoughtfully curated program that seamlessly blended cultural richness with visionary purpose. Every element of the evening reflected the Foundation’s mission: to recognize extraordinary women and foster meaningful dialogue that leads to lasting change.

🌟 Global Excellence Award Ceremony

🎙️ Distinguished Keynote Speakers

• Mayor Bonnie Crombie: The Mayor of Mississauga shared her vision for fostering inclusive leadership and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of women in driving positive societal change.
• Consul General Krzysztof Grzelczyk: As the Polish Consul General, he highlighted the enduring friendship between Canada and Poland and stressed the value of cultural exchange and collaboration in achieving mutual goals of global excellence.

🤝 Exclusive Networking Session

🍽️ Cultural Experience: A Taste of Poland

Guests were treated to an authentic Polish cuisine tasting, where they sampled a variety of traditional dishes, providing a unique cultural experience that complemented the evening’s festivities. This culinary journey offered a taste of Poland’s rich heritage, sparking conversations and connections over delicious food.

🎶 Live Artistic Performance

The evening also featured a live performance, further elevating the atmosphere with a beautiful and vibrant presentation of music and art. The performance captivated guests, providing an artistic reflection of the event’s themes of inspiration, leadership, and cultural connection.

Documenting Brilliance: A Historic Premiere

Data: 15 listopada 2024
Lokalizacja: Hotel Marysin Dwór, Katowice
Liczba gości: 200

Program Wydarzenia

Gala stała się przestrzenią do wymiany kulturowej, inspiracji oraz budowania wartościowych relacji. Goście mieli okazję delektować się wykwintną kolacją, wsłuchać się w poruszające przemówienia oraz uczestniczyć w niezwykłych pokazach artystycznych. Wydarzenie miało również silny wymiar społeczny – podkreślało znaczenie wspierania kobiet w przywództwie i konieczność dalszych działań na rzecz równości płci i globalnego rozwoju społecznego.

Ceremonia Wręczenia Nagród

• 4 Laureatki Brilliant Minded Women: Uhonorowano cztery wyjątkowe kobiety za ich niezwykłe osiągnięcia w dziedzinie rozwoju biznesu oraz działalności społecznej. Każda z nich została doceniona za swoje zaangażowanie, pasję i wpływ na otaczający świat.
• 7 Globalnych Ambasadorów Brilliant Minded: Tytuł Globalnego Ambasadora otrzymało siedem inspirujących osób, które wykazały się wyjątkowym przywództwem, wizją oraz oddaniem w tworzeniu pozytywnych zmian na skalę światową.
• Order Świętego Stanisława: Z inicjatywy Fundacji Brilliant Minded Women do tego prestiżowego odznaczenia zostało nominowanych pięć wyjątkowych osób – Dam i Kawalerów – w uznaniu za ich ponadprzeciętne zaangażowanie w działalność humanitarną, służbę publiczną oraz przywództwo społeczne.
• Certyfikaty Uznania i Osiągnięć: Laureatki otrzymały spersonalizowane certyfikaty Brilliant Minded Women, potwierdzające ich zaangażowanie i osiągnięcia. Certyfikaty wdzięczności wręczono również Sponsorom i Darczyńcom za ich nieocenione wsparcie.
• Podziękowania dla Zespołu i Wolontariuszy: Doceniono również pracę całego zespołu i wolontariuszy, bez których sukces tego wydarzenia nie byłby możliwy.
• Acknowledging the Team and Volunteers: The contributions of the Team and Volunteers were recognized, highlighting their hard work in making the event a success.

Wsparcie Rzeczowe

• $20 000 Cnd – 200 egzemplarzy ekskluzywnego albumu dokumentalnego “Living Legends: Brilliant Minds in the World” zostało podarowanych gościom jako pamiątka i forma uznania dla globalnych liderów.
• $5 000 Cad – 100 koszy upominkowych przygotowano dla Sponsorów, Darczyńców, Ambasadorów oraz Laureatek, jako symbol wdzięczności za ich wsparcie i wkład w wydarzenie.