Global Connect Blogging Initiative
Through a collaboration between the Community Media Workshop and the Global Press Institute, we're proud to present the compelling voices of women journalists from Chicago's vibrant ethnic communities.
These storytellers share narratives from their neighborhoods—perspectives that connect them to women writers across the globe.
Following an intensive full-day workshop, ten outstanding participants were chosen to receive ongoing mentorship and financial support for their work.
Program Resources
Meet Our Voices
Join us in following the journeys of Sabina Ahmed, Ivonne Canellada, Anam El-Jabali, Izabela Gluszak, Saffiya Shillo, Kataryzna Olcon, Lola Dada-Olley, Madhu Uppal, Joy Valdez, and Tara Weinberg as they document life in Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.
Lola Dada-Olley
Heritage: Nigeria
Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, I embrace my identity as a Black woman, mother, wife, daughter, and sister. Growing up as the child of immigrants taught me the value of dedication and versatility. My son has shown me the true meaning of hope. I'm honored to share stories that reflect our multicultural reality.
Sabina Ahmed
Heritage: Pakistan
As a proud Pakistani American woman, I'm passionate about issues affecting women across all communities. I believe that amplifying women's voices strengthens neighborhoods and drives meaningful change.
Katarzyna Olcon
Heritage: Poland
A first-generation immigrant from Poland, I dedicate my heart and mind to community work in Chicago and beyond. As an avid world traveler, every journey enriches my cultural understanding. Working as a Spanish-speaking clinician in a Latino neighborhood and mentoring refugee women, I'm thrilled to spotlight the remarkable individuals and initiatives transforming our communities.
Tara Mondesi Weinberg
Heritage: South Africa
African, historian, progressive thinker, magician, soccer enthusiast, reggae devotee—I'm grateful to join women worldwide in chronicling the stories of local, often overlooked communities and their distinctive characteristics.
Madhu Uppal
Heritage: India
I care deeply about social justice, environmental responsibility, and civic engagement. This platform allows me to engage with issues affecting women everywhere and learn from those pioneering positive change through women's empowerment.
Izabela Gluszak
Heritage: Poland
I'm that curious girl on a train, the bookworm exploring hometown libraries, the woman who's always recognized patriarchal injustice. I'm an immigrant becoming American while remaining forever Polish, yet often feeling Latina at heart. This blogging opportunity gives me the chance to write again, to ensure my voice—now finding its English expression—resonates with Global Connect readers.
Guadalupe Ivonne Canellada-Cortes
Heritage: Mexico
Proudly Mexican, ultraliberal, progressive, spiritual, activist, family devotee—authentically me in all my quirky complexity. I know I can make a difference by sharing stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary work that transforms our communities quietly but powerfully. Global Press Institute is where I can make this impact happen!
Saffiya Shillo
Heritage: Palestinian American
Chicagoan of Palestinian heritage, peace activist, former advocate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and cultural sensitivity trainer on Muslim and Arab issues. I'm proud to be a Global Connect Blogger because I share GPI's conviction that journalism should advance social awareness and inspire change.