Black History Month: Portrait

For Black History Month, we are honoured to spotlight our colleague Nahomie Millien, whose story reflects resilience, heritage, and leadership. Her journey reminds us that Black history is lived every day — shaping workplaces, communities, and futures.

“I come from Haiti, the first Black republic, born from a powerful fight for independence and freedom led by formerly enslaved Africans. That history of resistance and self-determination is not abstract to me — it is personal. It shapes how I see the world and why I do the work I do.

Before moving to Canada, I worked in Haiti in international development for more than 16 years to advance women’s rights and leadership in communities facing significant social and economic barriers. These experiences strengthened my belief in collective resilience and taught me the transformative power of women supporting one another. This commitment continues to guide my work today.

I am proud to work alongside the TFO Canada team, which shares these values, and to contribute to creating opportunities for women living in fragile contexts by supporting their social and economic growth.

Interestingly, it was after migrating to Canada in 2023 that I began learning more intentionally about Black History Month. That learning journey has been both meaningful and eye-opening. It gave me new language to reflect on identity, history, and the responsibilities that come with carrying this legacy in different spaces.

For me, being Black means resilience, social justice, and a deep commitment to myself and to others. These principles guide my professional life as a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion expert.

Celebrating Black History Month is, for me, both a moment of reflection and a reminder of why this work matters. I am proud of my heritage — and proud to contribute, every day, to building a more just and inclusive world.”