Keisha Hill, Gleaner Writer

Event coordinator, Charlene Fagan is creating 'Phenomenal Woman - Get Into Your Power,' an annual event that started in March, 2011 in Mississauga, Ontario Canada. The event is designed to share and celebrate triumphs, joys and laughter of women from all walks of life. The first show was held in Jamaica last year, and this year it is back with an exciting event to reach even more women. The Phenomenal Woman Show - Celebrating Women, Celebrating Jamaica will take place on Saturday, November 3, at the Mona Visitors' Lodge, with cocktails at 5 p.m.

It is a power-filled event for women embarking upon their journey of self-discovery and self-fulfillment while seeking to be in a positive environment connecting with other women.

"This event is designed to inspire and motivate women and also men who are seeking to find their better self. It will help to give them a foundation for inspiration, guidance, business mentorship and support. The tremendous reach of our event, combined with invaluable speaker knowledge, will motivate them to advance themselves," Fagan said.

Fagan is a Jamaican currently residing in Ontario, Canada. She is a professor of human relations and sociology at The Sheridan Institute of Technology and Higher Learning, and prides herself on being a strong woman and a mentor for her students and many of her peers. Her passion is to empower women and this she does through her motivational and empowerment workshops and seminars.

"It was a simple idea that has evolved into which women can come out, share, connect and have fun, while at the same time getting inspired. Women should understand that, when they are going through especially difficult times it is impossible to do it alone," Fagan said.

FAGAN'S HISTORY

For more than 10 years, Fagan has been facilitating seminars for various small and large businesses, church groups, and social service organisations in Jamaica and Canada. She is also the owner of Charlene's Closet, a women's' clothing and bridal boutique in Ontario, Canada. After surviving her own journey, which she considers an arduous one, Fagan wanted to encourage other women.

"Women should be celebrated and, therefore, this event is my way of affirming and applauding them for their strength and tenacity. Many women are challenged, bombarded, misunderstood, relegated to do inferior things, taken advantage of, ridiculed, abused, oppressed, to name a few of the unpleasant things they endure," Fagan said.

"Women have an indomitable spirit and strength. They are an integral part of every society and its functions. Therefore, they are always needed in the social, psychological, and spiritual structure of the planet," she added.

Guest speakers for this year will once again share their own experiences. Fagan has set out to change some of the format of the show by adding an interactive 'Talk Show' session with a panel and audience participation.

Speakers will include Joan Davis Williams, multiple recipient of The Teacher of the Year award in Jamaica; and Phyllis Nagle, a Canadian with more than 15 years' experience as a life coach and workshop facilitator.

The host of the Phenomenal Woman first anniversary show in Canada, Carrie Mullings, will also journey to Jamaica and will delight audiences with her dynamic personality and great sense of humour.

Other highlights will include entertainment, vendor displays, art showcase, fashion, fun, networking, interaction, and most of all, inspiration.

Charlane Fagan can be contacted at 890-4822.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com