Empowered to Belong: The Transformative Impact of See Hear Love’s “You Belong” Event

“You Belong”: A Transformative International Women’s Day Event at the Crossroads Unity Commons in Burlington, Ontario on March 7, 2025

Have you ever found yourself in a crowded room, yet feeling completely alone? That feeling of wondering where you truly fit in can be so painful, especially during life’s transitions. This is why our “You Belong” event felt like such a gift to so many women.

Creating Space for True Connection

Women in faith communities often face a quiet, unspoken struggle of feeling overlooked, unheard, and disconnected. Many find themselves surrounded by people but still battling loneliness. We hear you, and we know these struggles are real.

This gap is especially felt during life transitions—whether it’s singleness, motherhood, career shifts, or aging—leaving women wondering where they truly belong. These challenges created a profound need for a space where women could be seen, heard, and empowered to build meaningful connections.

The “You Belong” event, held on March 7, 2025, during the International Women’s Day at Crossroads Unity Commons in Burlington, was born from these observations. It became an answer to the longing for belonging and a space for women to embrace their worth and create lasting relationships. This event was not just another gathering—it was a call to action, creating a community where women are welcomed, valued, and empowered to become agents of change in their own circles.

Meeting the Need for Connection

It takes courage to show up authentically, but when we do, amazing things happen. The “You Belong” event was designed with one goal: to break down barriers and build a space where women truly feel seen, heard, and loved. It’s easy to overlook someone in a crowded space, but at “You Belong,” the focus was on connection, presence, and mutual support.

Through heartfelt conversations, shared stories, and moments of deep reflection, the event addressed these struggles head-on. Using Erik W. Carter’s 10 Elements of Belonging, the event created a framework to guide women through their journeys of self-worth, community support, and embracing others. Women were reminded that they are not alone, that they are invited and welcomed, and that they are loved for who they are.

Encouraging Stories and Wisdom from Leaders

God showed up in powerful ways through the stories shared by our amazing speakers. Their vulnerability and wisdom reminded us that we’re all walking this path together:

• Stacey Campbell, CEO of Prison Fellowship Canada, gave an inspiring keynote, urging women to extend grace and friendship to others, especially to those who may be difficult to love.
• Marjory Kerr, President of Tyndale University, shared wisdom on leadership and staying true to one’s beliefs, offering steadfast guidance to the women in attendance.
• Shaila Visser, National Director of Alpha Canada, spoke about the immigrant experience and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all, encouraging women to broaden their view of community.
• Anu George Canjanathoppil, CEO of IJM Canada, captivated the room with her storytelling, encouraging women to use their voices to make an impact in the world.
• Anne Miranda, Pastor, Speaker, and Author, led roundtable discussions, where women felt comfortable sharing their voices, knowing they would be heard.

These women didn’t just speak—they shared their lives, helping attendees feel connected to something larger than themselves. Their messages reinforced the core mission of the event: to make every woman feel valued and empowered in their faith journey.

A Shift in Perspective

The Holy Spirit was truly moving among us that day. The impact of the event was profound, with attendees leaving feeling uplifted, encouraged, and seen. Some powerful moments included:

• Sandee Macgregor shared how the young women from Kings Christian Collegiate felt inspired by the discussions: “Their eyes were opened to a variety of careers, experiences, sadness, loss, and victory… They spoke of hope in Christ and that was impactful for sure.”
• Mary Ann Buffman, an organization sponsor, expressed how her table of CBS women leaders found the event inspiring. The speakers, table discussions, and atmosphere left a lasting impression.
• Sandra Tadros Guirguis, a panelist, shared how the multicultural group at her table bonded deeply. One of the non-Christian attendees even took notes during a breakout session and later expressed her belief in Jesus’ work in her life, showing the power of connection and faith.

Isn’t it amazing how God uses these spaces of belonging to draw people closer to His heart?

Creating a Movement of Empowerment

“You Belong” is not just a one-time event; it’s part of a broader movement to empower women in faith and community spaces. Through See Hear Love, this message has spread across Canada, encouraging women to step into their roles, share their voices, and create spaces where others can belong. The event helped spark a larger conversation about the importance of true belonging, not just in faith communities but in every space women occupy.

This movement challenges communities to move beyond inclusion to true belonging—where women are fully seen, known, and supported. By connecting with other women, leading conversations, and providing support, the women who attended “You Belong” are now equipped to foster belonging wherever they go.

What’s Next?

The “You Belong” event is just the beginning. You can continue to engage in this conversation and community by:

1. Joining the See Hear Love Community through podcasts and online platforms.
2. Attending future events to deepen connections and continue the conversation.
3. Engaging in local groups for ongoing fellowship and growth.
4. Leading conversations in your communities to spread the message of belonging.
5. Supporting each other by creating spaces for connection and encouragement.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. We’re here with you, cheering you on as you create spaces of belonging in your world.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, whose generosity made it all happen. We’re so grateful for:

• Event Sponsors: Money Advisors – Cathie Orfali, Canadian Bible Society – Mary Ann Buffman, and YES TV
• Season 10 Sponsors & Partners: Canadian Bible Society, Tyndale University, The Thorogood Family Foundation, and Harry & Henrietta Reinders
• Major & Monthly Donors: Whose ongoing support sustains the mission of See Hear Love.

Together, we’ve created a space where women truly belong—one where they can feel seen, heard, and empowered to make a difference in their communities.

Father God, thank you for creating each woman reading this with purpose and intention. Help her to know how deeply she belongs—in your heart and in this community. Give her the courage to both receive and extend belonging to others. May she walk forward today knowing she is seen, heard, and truly loved by you. Amen.

If you would like to host a Belonging Women’s Event with See Hear Love at your church, we’d love to connect with you! Visit seehearlove.com or reach out to us. You belong here.