The Coquitlam Library buzzed with energy as Tri-Cities Community TV captured the voices of 50 remarkable women at the Faces Co-Authors book launch. More than just an event, it was a powerful gathering of unity, vision, and empowerment. Curated by Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre and Cathy Cena, this project was more than a book, it was a testament to the strength of women coming together, celebrating their journeys, and ensuring every story is heard.

Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre & Cathy Cena

Held in honor of International Women’s Day 2025, the event marked a year of storytelling, resilience, and collaboration. Each of the 50 co-authors brought a unique perspective, contributing to a collective narrative of perseverance, triumph, and the power of support. Two co-authors, Natasha Nicole and Teri Towner, were invited to share their experiences of being part of this transformative project, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in connecting and inspiring our communities.

The event also welcomed many elected officials who came to show their support, further highlighting the significance of community-driven initiatives. Their presence underscored the role storytelling plays in shaping policy, fostering inclusion, and strengthening communities. Councillor Trish Mandewo, a strong advocate for representation and dialogue, shared, “I’m a big believer in storytelling,” emphasizing how personal narratives help drive change. Co-author Angela Calla added, “When women support each other, we all rise,” capturing the heart of the Faces project. Barbara Jones, another co-author, spoke of her own motivation, saying, “When I saw the project Faces… I said to myself I have to do this. It was my opportunity to write my book.”

The afternoon was more than a celebration—it was a movement. Laughter, tears, and heartfelt conversations filled the room, as each woman recognized the significance of her voice in a larger collective. Faces was not just about individual stories; it was about the shared experience of women standing together, lifting one another up, and proving that their words have the power to shape the future.

As the event came to a close, one thing was clear, this book was just the beginning. Faces was a testament to the fact that every woman’s voice deserves to be heard, and when they come together, their impact is unstoppable.