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Selection
Panel
Panel







Khadija Hamidu
Panelist

Yuma Hester
Panelist

Sheila Murray
Panelist

Vick Naresh
Panelist
Selection Panel
The Hamilton Arts Week 2025 Selection Panel consists of:​

Khadija Hamidu
Khadija Hamidu is a distinguished leader and arts advocate, renowned for her dedication to fostering community development and championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. In 2021, she founded Melanin Market, a non-profit organization committed to elevating BIPOC businesses and artists across Canada. Through this initiative, Khadija provides vital resources to entrepreneurs and creators, focusing on amplifying marginalized voices and facilitating access to funding, marketing, and event platforms.
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In her capacity as Founder and CEO of Melanin Market, Khadija has established a transformative platform that bridges cultural expression and economic empowerment. Her strategic vision and relentless drive have positioned Melanin Market as a catalyst for inclusive growth and innovation.
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Khadija also serves as the Vice President of Economic Development at YWCA Hamilton, where she applies her expertise in strategic planning, governance, and economic revitalization. She is dedicated to fostering sustainable local economies through the application of innovative sociological frameworks and collaborative approaches.
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Beyond her professional commitments, Khadija is deeply engaged in civic leadership. She serves as Vice Chair of the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council and contributes her insights as a Board Member for Goodwill Amity. Her unwavering commitment to community empowerment and social advocacy has garnered her numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2024 Hamilton Arts Champion Award, presented by the Hamilton Arts Council, and recognition as one of Hamilton’s Top 40 Leaders Under 40.
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Driven by a passion for creating lasting, positive change, Khadija Hamidu continues to play an instrumental role in advancing economic equity, cultural representation, and social justice, both locally and nationally.